vietnam

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My tufting experience in Hanoi

Is it worth it?

Short answer: Yes, I had a blast discovering a crafty side of me! However, the workshop can be physically demanding, so starting with a small canvas is advisable to avoid sore hands and arms the next day.

Longer answer: Where/When/What/How?

  • Location: 「Rug Talk Vietnam」– 10 Trương Hán Siêu, Quận Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
    The studio is located on the 2nd floor of the building. Grab/Taxi is the most convenient to get there. If you ride a motorbike, you’ll have to find a parking place. Motorbike riders may park at a nearby cafe named ORO at 17 Truong Han Sieu, but I’m not sure if it’s safe because no security guy is watching over the vehicles.
    >>> Here’s their IG for direct chat: rugtalk.vietnam
  • Opening time: Each workshop lasts 3 hours. There are several time slots but limited space, so do chat with them to book in advance to secure a slot:
    >>> Mon to Thu: 9am-12pm & 2pm-5pm
    >>> Fri to Sun: 9am-12pm & 2pm-5pm & 6pm-9pm
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Hanoi: Mao Bookstore (Nhà sách Mão)

• Address: No. 5 Dinh Le street, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi, Vietnam (Following Google Maps is the best way to get there: reach no. 5, go into the narrow alley, follow the signboard to the 2nd floor, you’ll find the store on the left side of the stairs.)

• Website: http://nhasachmao.com

SUMMARY:

✅ A perfect place to find Vietnamese books from old times. 99% of the books here are in Vietnamese (either original or translated).

✅ Chill atmosphere, cozy space, friendly staff, reasonable price (a real bargain for old books). The books are organized by categories, but it isn’t very clear how to look for a particular title. You can spend time skimming through the whole thing yourself or just ask the staff for their assistance.

✅ Respect others’ space and follow the instructions printed on the white paper signs. If you want to take some photos to check in, be quick and don’t obstruct other visitors. Continue reading →