The German tourist spent considerable time wandering through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, exploring its narrow streets and taking in the lively sidewalk dining scene.
He was particularly struck by the abundance of sidewalk eateries, where locals gathered to eat, drink and chat. Bia hi (fresh draft beer) stalls were ubiquitous, with customers sitting on small stools around low tables and sipping the pale beer from hand-blown, pale-green glass cups, creating a vibrant street atmosphere.