The Asian Poker Tour (APT) has had a very successful 2023 and will aim to end the year on a high note with APT Hanoi Billions 2023. One of the most highly awaited events of the year, APT Hanoi Billions 2023 boasts a VND 60 Billion (~$2.5 Million) in guaranteed prize pool taking place between 1st and 10th December 2023 at the National Convention Center.
It is also one of the most highly anticipated events for Indian poker players, as visiting Hanoi, Vietnam is affordable and accessible. Hanoi is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, historical sites, and a most of all, fascinating experiences for poker players.
View this post on Instagram
If you are a poker enthusiast who wishes to take this opportunity to plan a trip to Vietnam for APT Hanoi Billions 2023, we have created a perfect guide considering all key points for a fulfilling trip. Gutshot has listed down all the possible factors that you need to keep in mind while flying down to Vietnam for this event. From travel arrangements and visa requirements to food and transportation in Hanoi, we got you covered.
For Indian travellers, reaching Hanoi is very simple with direct flights to the city from major metro cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bangalore and Chennai. If you are from a Tier 2 city in India, don’t worry, you can opt to take a connecting flight from your city to any of the above-mentioned cities of India and fly to Vietnam there on.
With several airlines offering flight options to Hanoi, you can never be short of options and also look to take advantage of the flexibility on offer for travellers. We have shared some of the best possible flight options for you below:
It is important for Indian nationals to secure a valid visa before travelling to Vietnam. It would be convenient to obtain the visa well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues. The e-visa process is easy and can be done easily. Just ensure your passport has the required validity and fulfills all other entry requirements to obtain the visa.
The Hanoi National Convention Center (NCC) is located in Me Tri Ward, Nam Tu Liem District, at the intersection of Thang Long Avenue and Pham Hung Road. It is 10 km away from the center of Hanoi and around 40 km far from the Noi Bai International Airport. There are plenty of hotel options that you can choose from to stay in the same area for the event.
JW Marriott needs no introduction as it is a chain of hotels recognized all across the world. Located at a mere 15-minute walk from the NCC, this five-star accommodation will cost players roughly VND 5,623,067 (~₹19,150) per night. You can enjoy multiple amenities alongside free high-speed Wi-Fi and breakfast at this venue.
ALSO READ: APT Hanoi Billions 2023: All You Need To Know
The Grand Plaza Hotel is yet another close option for players to choose from, with the four-star hotel located 4.5 km from the NCC. It is just 15 minutes away from a taxi, which costs roughly USD $140 (~₹11,657) per night while also offering airport transfers and room services.
Players can also opt for HANZ Kieu Anh Hotel and Blue Hanoi Inn City Hotel along with Rosee Apartment Hotel – Prestige Suites in Cau Giay district as well as Roygent Parks Hanoi, as budget options. These venues will cost you less than USD $100 (~₹8,327) per night, with the place also in the one-mile radius of the NCC.
Hanoi features a dynamic food culture with an array of dining options. You can find a wide variety of cuisines, ranging from local Vietnamese food to Korean, Cantonese, Japanese and more near the venue. We have mentioned some of the standout places you can try out
John Anthony Cantonese Grill is a must-try place in Hanoi if you are a fan of Cantonese classics and wish to indulge in homemade dim sums, live seafood dishes, roasted meats, and the peking duck. Located at the JW Marriott, the John Anthony Cantonese Grill is open from 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM and 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM from Monday to Sunday.
View this post on Instagram
The Kumihimo Restaurant at JW Marriott should be on your list. It offers Japanese classics like Sushi, Sashimi, as well as Tempura and Dry-aged Beef, with Wagyu tacos also on offer. It is open between 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM on Monday to Friday and 11:30 AM – 2 PM and 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.
View this post on Instagram
You can also try out Lounge 19: Bistro & Golf in Hanoi for an eclectic selection of Western classics along with French, Vietnamese and Korean food with the Lounge 19 Bistro located just a 5-minute walk from the venue.
If you wish to dive deep into Vietnamese cuisine. Pho Bat Da 37 is the place for you to sample the local pho – a classic noodle soup dish with the restaurant located just across the lake from the NCC.
Indian players who wish to stick to their roots and eat desi food can visit Namaste Hanoi. As the name suggests, the Indian deli is just 10 kms away from the NCC. This stop offers South Indian and North Indian food across vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. It is open between 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM and 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM between Monday to Sunday.
View this post on Instagram
Enthusiasts can also try other venues like the Grills & Gravy Indian Restaurant, Dalcheeni Hanoi, Maazi Old Quarter, Pk Spice Indian Restaurant, and Rasm Indian Cuisine for Indian food across the city.
Those looking for a vegan option while wanting to try Vietnamese cuisine can check out Tam Chay Vegan Restaurant. It is a 10-minute walk from the NCC and is open 9 AM – 2 PM and 5 PM – 9 PM between Mondays to Saturdays and 9 AM – 2 PM and 3 PM – 9 PM on Sundays.
If you are looking for a quick caffeine fix near the Hanoi National Convention Center, don’t forget to check out the places listed below. With Vietnamese coffee, craft beer, croissants, and pastries, Class6 – Specialty Coffee is a funky local coffee shop that’s a 15-minute walk from the NCC. Similarly, Highlands Coffee is a popular Vietnamese coffee brand that offers hot and iced drinks while also being a 15-minute walk from the NCC.
View this post on Instagram
Players willing to travel a little can check out Sunset Bar on the West Lake. It offers one of the best picturesque views of Hanoi and is the perfect place to have a quiet drink with a spectacular view. The Sunset bar is open from 4 PM – 12 AM every day and is a 10 km 30-minute taxi ride from the venue.
Similarly, the Hien Beer Street – Hanoi Old Quarter is located 10 km away from NCC. The Ta Hien Beer Street is a bustling street offering a wealth of indoor and outdoor dining and drinking options via the multitude of local bars, restaurants and street hawkers.
If you are interested in partying after grinding hard on the poker tables, we suggest you check out the Q Bar. It is located roughly 1 km away from the NCC and has live entertainment with this swish cocktail bar having stylish locally inspired cocktails as well as happy hour every day between 5 PM – 7 PM.
View this post on Instagram
The City of Hanoi provides multiple transport options; from motorbike rentals and ride-hailing services to taxis, they have it all. You can opt for a metered taxi or hire a private taxi. You can also opt for local transportation while traveling around the city, be it for any event or food or just visiting multiple venues and attractions with comfort.
One of the best and most convenient ways to travel around Hanoi is by renting a bike. Various brands like Grab and Gojek are available. Just like Uber, you can know the price to rent a bike on the app and get going.
While travelling abroad, one should always focus on health and prioritise their safety. It is a great practice to get travel insurance while also carrying necessary medications as well as adhering to local COVID-19 guidelines in places where necessary. Medical and healthcare facilities around the city of Hanoi are top-notch, but it is always better to be prudent.
To summarise, Indian travellers heading to Hanoi for the APT Hanoi Billions 2023 need to make meticulous plans while also considering accommodation, travel logistics, and cultural nuances during their trip to the beautiful city.
Embracing the diversity of this Vietnamese city and its beauty will ensure that your trip remains an unforgettable experience. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and plan your trip to Vietnam for the final big stop of APT this year, good luck!
For more news and updates, keep reading Gutshot Magazine or follow us on our social media handles. We are present on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Telegram.
Smit is a sports writer at Gutshot Magazine. After completing his Bachelor’s in Mass Media, and a Master’s degree in Sports Management, this sports fanatic uses articles as a tool to express his opinions. Bring up cricket or football and you will find this usually quiet guy speak for hours! He also co-heads the official supporters club of Chelsea FC in Mumbai, wherein he hosts screenings, football meets and other such events.
Sign-up with Gutshot
Offer: Get extra 28% on all deposits Register
Grab Welcome Bonus
Offer: FTD 50% Bonus Money up to ₹20K. Deposit code ‘ALLIN50’ Register
Sign-up and get bonus
Offer: Up to ₹50,000* Register
Deposit with code GSTDISCOUNT
Offer: Get 100% GST discount on deposits Register
Sign-up with code GUTSHOT
Offer: Get ₹50 FREE Register
First Deposit Bonus
Offer: 100% up to €2,000 Register
Sign-up with Gutshot
Offer: Get 30% Instant Rakeback Register
Daily Winnings Up To ₹40 Crore!
Offer: Get ₹550 Joining Bonus For Free Register