I just returned from Hanoi Vietnam where I attended the conference “Building Partnerships in Southeast Asia: Opportunities and Challenges for the U.S. The conference was wonderful. I met a ton of interesting Americans working on Fulbrights. I also got to do some site-seeing in Hanoi.
Our hotel, the Hilton Hanoi Opera Hotel was right next to the famous opera house. (Not to be confused with the infamous prison "The Hanoi Hilton" where American pilots were held from 1964-1973).
Trees lean into the Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi. Legend has it that the 15th century emperor Le Loi received a magic sword from the depth of the lake, which he used to overcome Chinese occupiers. “Hoan Kiem” means “return of the sword”.
The lake is the only serene spot I could find in Hanoi. Locals love to sit, talk, and exercise in the surrounding paths.
“Turtle tower” is very photogenic.
The traffic in Hanoi is nuts!
Ms. Claire a Pierangelo from the USA embassy Hanoi was the first speaker. She said the Fulbright program is one of the centerpieces of US engagement in the region and the program has the ultimate goal of increasing the chance that these nations will live in peace and friendship.
There were so many great presentations! I highlight a few of the most interesting talks here: Continue reading