A Kosher Adventure Through Vietnam

In 2006, inspired by The Lubavitcher Rebbe’s vision to reach out to every single Jewish person, Rabbi Menachem and Racheli Hartman, with the help of Rabbi Avtzon of Chabad of Hong Kong, moved their young family from Jerusalem to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

 

Their goal was to connect to each and every Jew to instill a positive true Jewish life and strengthen his/her ties to the Jewish Community. They have, since, successfully catered to thousands of individuals offering Prayer Services, Kosher Meals, Jewish Educational Programs, among other services, in an accepting setting where each and every one would feel welcome. Six years later, the first women’s Mikvah was opened in HCMC.

 

In 2014, Chabad of Vietnam opened a Chabad Center in Hanoi. 

With the continued growth in Vietnam and the Jewish population expanding, Rabbi Avremi and Esther Hartman, of Brooklyn, N.Y., joined Chabad of HCMC to assist in the increasing demands of the Jewish Community. The primary focus of their work is to reach out to the younger demographic.

 

Chabad of Vietnam operates in the true Chabad spirit where every Jew is welcomed with open arms in a receptive and non-judgmental environment, regardless of his or her level of Jewish affiliation, observance or knowledge.

 

In 2018, Chabad of Hoi An opened its doors. A Chabad Center geared to the many visitors traveling through the town.

 

Chabad of Vietnam Website

 

Train Street in Hanoi (Photo by Silver Ringvee on Unsplash)

Hanoi: The Heart of the North

• Old Quarter: The historic heart of Hanoi, known for its bustling streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant marketplaces.
• Hoan Kiem Lake: A serene lake located in the city center, surrounded by scenic views and walking paths, famous for the Turtle Tower.
• Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square: Once the heart of French colonial Hanoi, this square is now a bustling public space located at the north end of Hoan Kiem Lake. 
• The Temple of Literature: Vietnam's first national university, built in 1070, a stunning example of traditional Vietnamese architecture. Plus, there's the Pen Tower here too, which stands for the love of learning and big dreams. It really shows how much Vietnam values education and culture.
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: The final resting place of Vietnamese Revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh, where visitors can view his preserved body.
• Hanoi Opera House: A beautiful example of French colonial architecture, offering various cultural performances.
• Thang Long Water Puppet Theater: Offers traditional Vietnamese water puppet shows, a unique art form originating from northern Vietnam.
• Hanoi's Train Street: A narrow street where daily life buzzes inches away from passing trains, showcasing the city's dynamic urban environment.
• West Lake: The largest lake in Hanoi, offering peaceful surroundings and a popular spot for cycling and leisure walks.
• Hoa Lo Prison Relic: Once known as the "Hanoi Hilton," this prison was used by the French colonists for political prisoners and later by North Vietnam for prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. 

An Bang Beach in Hoi An (Photo: Envato)
 

• Ancient Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its beautifully preserved mix of Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese, and French architectural influences.
• Japanese Covered Bridge: An iconic symbol of Hoi An, built in the 16th century, featuring intricate carvings and a small temple inside.
• Tan Ky Old House: One of the oldest homes in Hoi An, showcasing traditional Vietnamese merchant architecture.
• An Bang Beach: A serene beach located a short distance from Hoi An Ancient Town, perfect for relaxation and swimming.
• Fujian Assembly Hall: A significant cultural site in Hoi An with traditional Chinese architectural elements.
• Hoi An Night Market: A vibrant marketplace that comes alive at night with lanterns, offering a variety of crafts and souvenirs.
• Tra Que Vegetable Village: A traditional farming community where visitors can learn about and participate in the cultivation of organic vegetables.
• Hoi An Lantern Making Workshop: Experience the art of lantern making and bring home a unique souvenir crafted with your own hands.
• Thu Bon River: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride or a scenic walk along the river that runs through Hoi An, offering picturesque views, especially at sunset.

Ho Chi Minh City (Photo by Peter Nguyen on Unsplash)

Ho Chi Minh City: The Southern Star

• War Remnants Museum: Offers a poignant view into the brutal effects of war on the Vietnamese people, featuring military equipment and photo exhibitions.
• Cu Chi Tunnels: An extensive network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War, allowing visitors to explore a part of Vietnamese history firsthand.
• Saigon Central Post Office: A beautifully preserved remnant of French colonial times, functioning as a working post office and a tourist attraction known for its architecture.
• Ben Thanh Market: A bustling market in the heart of the city where visitors can find souvenirs.
• Reunification Palace: Also known as the Independence Palace, it's a landmark in Ho Chi Minh City, symbolizing the end of the Vietnam War when a North Vietnamese Army tank crashed through its gates.
• Saigon Opera House (Municipal Theater): An elegant building constructed in the French colonial era, it's now a venue for a variety of performances, from opera to ballet to Vietnamese traditional shows.
• Bitexco Financial Tower - Sky Deck: Offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck, making it a great spot to see Ho Chi Minh City from above.
• District 1's Walking Street (Nguyen Hue Street): A vibrant pedestrian street in the heart of the city, filled with shops and entertainment, perfect for an evening stroll.
• Binh Tay Market: Located in the Chinatown district of Ho Chi Minh City, this market is known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse range of goods, offering a glimpse into the local life.

• Visa Requirements: Make sure to check visa requirements for your country well in advance. 
• Local Currency and Payments: While credit cards and U.S. dollars are accepted in many places, cash (Vietnamese Dong) is still preferred, especially in smaller towns and local markets.
• Dress Respectfully: When visiting religious sites, dress modestly. Covering shoulders and knees is a sign of respect.
• Stay Connected: Buying an eSIM or a local SIM card are both good options.  You will find inexpensive SIM Cards for sale in the airport.
• Transportation: From scooters to taxis and buses, Vietnam has a variety of transport options. Ride-hailing apps like Grab are also a convenient and safe way to travel in cities.
• Traffic Awareness: Traffic in Vietnam, especially in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, can be overwhelming, with a unique flow that's dominated by motorbikes. The sheer number of motorbikes weaving through traffic can be surprising to first-time visitors. Always be cautious and aware of your surroundings, particularly when crossing streets. Look in all directions, move predictably, and make eye contact with riders when possible. Understanding the flow of motorbikes and how pedestrians navigate it is crucial for a safe and enjoyable visit.
• Water: Stick to bottled water and avoid ice unless you're sure it's made with purified water.
• Respect Local Customs: Vietnam has a rich culture with unique customs. A small gesture like removing your shoes before entering someone's home can show your respect. Also, avoid public displays of affection and loud arguments.
• Travel Insurance: Always travel with insurance that covers medical expenses.
• Vaccinations: Check with your doctor for recommended vaccinations before your trip.
• Responsible Tourism: Be mindful of the environment and local cultures. Practice responsible tourism to help preserve the beauty of Vietnam for future visitors.