Hanoi Traditions: Tea, Calligraphy & Lunch

OVERVIEW

Behold some of Hanoi’s most revealing landmarks as a prelude to a calligraphy class, a tea ceremony and a traditional Vietnamese lunch. After a leisurely and spectacularly scenic drive through the countryside, you will arrive at O Quan Chuong, the 18th-century east gate into the Old Quarter. While walking through this wonderfully atmospheric district, you will pause to admire icons such as the Cantonese Assembly Hall – once a gathering place for Chinese immigrants – and the former residence of the Governor of Tonkin, a grand French colonial building. A lunch of classic Vietnamese dishes follows after which you will sit in on an enlightening tea ceremony. You will see firsthand how the tea is infused and discover how this ritual differs from other tea ceremonies. Vietnamese calligraphy also features its own characteristics, which you will learn during the hands-on class as you practice this expressive art form with a traditional fine-tipped brush.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See landmark buildings in Hanoi that reflect its French and Chinese influences.
• Enjoy a ritual Vietnamese tea ceremony and a traditional lunch.
• Try your hand at the ancient art of Vietnamese-style calligraphy.
• Admire the gorgeous countryside during the 2.5-hour drive to and from Hanoi.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.