Strolling at Hoan Kiem

Hanoi has its own beauty. Before I came here I read as much as I could about the culture and about the place, but reading is nothing like seeing it firsthand.

Every city seems to try and create an area of beauty for its residents and tourists and Hanoi is no different. Huc Bridge, the circular walk and the temple on the lake were all made as a place to find peace.

I can't seem to get enough of walking around Hoan Kiem Lake. Right in the center of a frantic, bustling city, this serene place reminds me that people everywhere are no different - we all want some place to go to escape the hustle and bustle of life.

The weather could not have been better - and I should remember this if I ever want to visit again - November is the dry season when the sun shines in Hanoi. Studying butterflies in Vietnam has been a great experience. I have learned a lot about them and about this country. The world is full of interesting things to study and wonderful places to study them. So where to go next? It's always so hard to decide!