HÀ NỘI — A model of trams that used to run through Hà Nội has been specially constructed at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi to welcome the Lunar New Year.       

Alongside the tram, Việt Nam’s most famous hotel also captures the spirit of old Hà Nội with a bustling Tết market featuring dozens of stalls selling traditional holiday foods, designer clothing and local handicrafts. The free entry bazaar will be open to the public from 11am to 8pm from January 26 to 31.

The first stop on this year’s Tết market journey at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi is the “jingle tram", located outside L’Epicerie du Metropole, and modelled after one of Hà Nội’s iconic bygone trams from the early 19th century. For the first time, visitors can stroll through the wings of the hotel, each of which will be decorated as a different tram stop representing old Hà Nội, including “Hà Nội Old Quarter”, “Đồng Xuân Market” and “Long Biên Bridge”.

Vendors taking part in this year’s bazaar including Valenciani, Lê Thanh Hòa, SHE, Bonpoint, Liti Florist, Nature Queen, Việt Culture, Vivy Handicraft, Three Tree Jewellry, Huong Jewellry, C-Brewmaster, Fargreen, Orfarm, Trường Hảo Food, Đại Nam Thái Y Viện and Đa Lộc.

In addition, a wide range of Tết activities will be held over the weekend.

Visitors can join a bánh chưng (square sticky cake) workshop with craftsman Nguyễn Đức Toàn from Thanh Oai District. The workshop will take place from 11.15am to 11.30am on Saturday.

On the same day, a Tết flower arrangement workshop with Liti florist will take place from 11.30am to 1pm.

On Sunday, from 1pm to 4pm, a workshop themed on Tết painting with renowned artist Văn Dương Thành will be held.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming guests to our special tram-themed Tết bazaar this year,” said General Manager of the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, William J. Haandrikman. “Our annual Lunar New Year market is a great place to stock up on gifts and traditional foods before the big day, or just have a browse and soak up the festive atmosphere.” — VNS