Pick-up: The experience begins when your guide picks you up from your hotel or meeting point at 17:30. After a quick tour briefing, you’ll take a short ride through Hanoi’s backstreets to the home of your host family. This journey itself is an introduction to daily life in Hanoi, as you’ll see bustling neighborhoods, local vendors, and street scenes that few tourists encounter.

Backstreet Exploration: On the way to the family home, your guide will take you on a detour through some of Hanoi’s lesser-known areas. As you navigate the maze of narrow streets and hidden alleyways, you’ll get a sense of how the locals live, work, and interact in these vibrant communities. The guide will provide insights into the city’s “Good, Bad, and Ugly” sides, sharing stories that reveal the complexity of life in Hanoi.

Home-Hosted Dinner: Upon arriving at the family’s home, you’ll be welcomed with warm hospitality. The host will introduce you to the ingredients and techniques that are central to Hanoian cuisine. This is a hands-on experience, so you’ll be able to participate in the preparation of the meal. 

Once the cooking is done, you’ll sit down with the family to enjoy a feast of authentic, home-cooked Vietnamese food. Beyond just eating, this is a chance to connect with your hosts and hear stories about their lives, traditions, and experiences. This cultural exchange goes both ways, as you’ll also be able to share your own stories and make lasting friendships. The meal will consist of several traditional dishes, customized to include vegetarian or vegan options if requested.

Flag Lowering Ceremony: After dinner, the evening concludes with a visit to Ba Dinh Square to witness the Lowering of the Flag Ceremony at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. This solemn daily event marks the end of the day in Vietnam’s capital and is a significant tradition that few visitors get the chance to experience. You’ll watch as the national flag is ceremoniously lowered in a show of respect and patriotism, capping off a memorable evening.