Saigon vs Hanoi

Traditional Art Performance in Hanoi Theater.

As a child of disagreeable parents, I've had the unique experience of living in both parts of the country. From my observations and as mentioned in previous posts, here are some key contrasts between the two. And as a local, my focus will be on exploring the lesser-known aspects that often go unmentioned in travel blogs or tour books, such as the authentic local way of life and the deeper cultural nuances that shape each place.

Pace of life: Hanoi stands out as the political and governmental hub, embodying a more official and traditional atmosphere. Life in Hanoi moves at a slower pace, emphasizing family values and traditions. In contrast, Saigon thrives as a cosmopolitan and diverse city.it appears to have a more business-oriented atmosphere, higher numbers of non-natives and foreigners . It serves as a magnet for foreign businesses, their offices and factories. Interestingly, while most government buildings and administrative offices are located in Hanoi, many foreign companies choose HCM City as their first choice for base of operations. Perhaps it's the idea of "not getting too close to the sun"? As a result of this business focus, HCM City has a more cosmopolitan vibe. It attracts people from various parts of Vietnam and other countries, contributing to its diverse and multicultural environment. (Though since Vietnam opened its doors to global trade, development has been distributed throughout the country, not just confined to these two major cities.)

Social etiquette: In my perspective, Saigoneses individuals appear to adopt a more laid-back approach and relaxed social interactions while exhibiting a more casual and open-minded attitude. They tend to embrace a looser regulatory environment, informality, and a lesser emphasis on strict professionalism. On the other hand, Hanoians display a greater inclination towards strictness, formality, and academic achievement. They seem to be more driven and have more serious and professional demeanor. (So, if your employees are from the North, they tend to be less late for work. And if your boss is from the South, you might have a greater chance of being forgiven for making mistakes. Okay, totally kidding.)

Also, it's interesting to note that while many celebrities are originally from Hanoi, they often rise to fame in HCM City where there seems to be more opportunities.

Politics: The echoes of history, particularly the legacy of the American war, continue to shape the collective consciousness of the people, leaving behind lingering conflicts between regions. An undeniable sense of resentment can still be observed among some Saigoneses, especially the older generations, who hold the perception that the northern people are responsible for the country falling behind. However, most Hanoians understandably are very protective and supportive of the government, as they believe the country did its best to survive and thrive despite numerous hardships and wars.

Though to be honest, overall, this falls far short of the magnitude of tension I've witnessed between conservatives and liberals in America.

Cuisine: Both cities offer diverse and delicious cuisines, but with regional variations. Hanoi is known for its refined and delicate flavors. It is famous for dishes like pho (noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with rice noodles), and cha ca (grilled fish with turmeric and dill). Saigon's cuisine, on the other hand, influenced by international and other regional flavors, tends to be more adventurous and cosmopolitan. You'll find a wider range of street food, local specialties, and international cuisine options in Saigon.

Chill Bar in HCM city

Entertainment and Nightlife: Saigon is known for its vibrant and fast-paced lifestyle, It is a bustling metropolis with a modern and cosmopolitan vibe. It boasts a greater number of ethnic, foreign-owned restaurants, cool rooftop bars, euphoric and exotic nightclubs, seductive lounges, inviting karaoke venues, big-name celebrity live music shows, comedy clubs, fashion festivals and theatrical art performances. Hanoi also has its share of nightlife, but it is comparatively more modest. While it is not famous for its wild night clubs or sexy bars, it shines in its own unique way with many captivating traditional cultural performances and lively folk theater scenes. Interestingly, due to the concentration of high-ranking government officers in Hanoi, their children often enjoy a more indulgent lavish lifestyle and experiences and are better known for wild party animals. When seeking an amplified adventure, they often embark on thrilling escapades to the vibrant paradise of Saigon, where entertainment knows no bounds!

Though when it comes to the realms of literature arts, creative writing and films, I've noticed that humor find in the North tend to exhibit more clever wordplay, sophisticated wit, and intellectual stimulation with certain depth. On the other hand, there is an inclination towards a more silly, lighthearted, and simple approach in the humor found in the South which sometimes can be perceived as shallow.

Chill Bar

This dynamic showcases the different roles these cities play in Vietnam's economic landscape. HCM City's business-friendly environment and international connections make it a hub for commerce and innovation. On the other hand, Hanoi, with its government institutions and historical significance, serves as the political and cultural capital of the country.

Both cities have their unique charm and contribute in their own ways to Vietnam's overall development. Whether you prefer the fast-paced, cosmopolitan vibe of HCM City or the traditional, cultural richness of Hanoi, each offers its own set of opportunities and experiences.