Can you guess why Northern Vietnam is a runner’s paradise? 🇻🇳

Inside: 2 gorgeous races you can't say no to! Email not displaying correctly? [View it]( in your browser. [Halong Bay]( Hey there 👋 Looking to combine your next running race with incredible scenery and fascinating history? Let us introduce you to Northern Vietnam. On the region’s eastern coast, the famous Ha Long Bay features magnificent limestone karsts that emerge from emerald-green waters. Meanwhile, the nation’s bustling capital, Hanoi, is a cultural hotspot that combines French colonial architecture and centuries of history. And we’ve got two incredible races taking place in both locations. Read on to find out more about the Standard Chartered Hanoi Marathon - Heritage Race and the Halong Bay Heritage Marathon. P.S. You can also explore southern Vietnam’s Mekong Delta at the [Can Tho Heritage Marathon](. Can Tho is perfect for visitors who want to explore the region’s famous floating markets, river cruises, and unique, local cuisine. Early Bird tickets available until 1 September! [Halong]( Halong Bay Heritage Marathon Thà nh phố Hạ Long, Vietnam 17 Nov, 2024 (Sun) Marathon, Half Marathon, 10km, 5km [Register Now]( [Hanoi]( Standard Chartered Hanoi Marathon - Heritage Race Hanoi, Vietnam 3 Nov, 2024 (Sun) Marathon, Half Marathon, 10km, 5km [Register Now]( Course Details The Halong Bay Heritage Marathon course is truly one-of-a-kind, offering spectacular scenery from start to finish. This oceanside race keeps you captivated all the way with majestic views of the Halong karst formations, dramatic mountains, and idyllic fishing villages. And with a 5am start, this race kicks off with an unforgettable sunrise. The Standard Chartered Hanoi Marathon - Heritage Race offers a no less beautiful race through Vietnam’s 1,000-year-old capital. The race starts and finishes at the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake, recognisable for its iconic Turtle Tower and Ngoc Son Temple. You’ll then pass by 11 of Hanoi’s most significant cultural and historical landmarks, such as the Hanoi Opera House and St. Joseph’s Cathedral. Runner Reviews: Halong Bay Heritage Marathon “Amazing location…it feels like you are in a movie the whole way. Super weather and superbly organised. Everyone makes you feel welcome and there's so much positive energy right around.” “I loved this experience! It was utterly beautiful to run with the sunrise across the Bay. It was quite a flat route, but I really enjoyed going over the big bridge!” Runner Reviews: Standard Chartered Hanoi Marathon “The race was able to capture the different tourist attractions of Hanoi. The organizers and volunteers were very helpful.” “I was surprised by the cheerful crowds which are all well-known running teams in Hanoi. Photographers all along the route made me feel like I was in the spotlight." What To Do In Northern Vietnam [Hanoi]( Located in Northern Vietnam, Halong Bay and Hanoi captivate visitors with their dazzling array of history and nature. Both cities are accessible from one another, with bus services taking around 3 hours between locations. A magical Buddhist temple complex outside of Hanoi is perfect for those who want to explore further afield. 1. Explore Vietnam’s 1,000-year-old Capital Discover Hanoi's Old Quarter, home to 36 streets which each represent a different historical guild or craft. The Temple of Literature, established in 1070 as Vietnam’s first university, is a beautiful example of traditional architecture. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Hoa Lo Prison also shed light on Vietnam’s more recent history. 2. Cruise Ha Long Bay Even if you take part in the marathon, nothing beats a boat cruise through the astonishing limestone karsts and emerald waters of Ha Long Bay. An overnight cruise offers an altogether more magical experience, as you enjoy the bay at a more relaxed place. You can even try your hand at night squid fishing and sunrise Tai Chi. 3. Visit the Perfume Pagoda The Perfume Pagoda, or Chua Huong, is a vast complex of Buddhist temples and shrines built into the limestone cliffs of the Huong Tich mountains. The centrepiece of this complex is the Huong Tich Cave, which is reached after a scenic journey along the Yen River and a hike or cable car ride up the mountain. Weather Expectations November is generally a cooler month in Northern Vietnam, with temperatures averaging 23°C during the daytime. Temperatures drop slightly during the night, combining with pleasant breezes, and humidity also falls in this month. Looking for something else? On Ahotu, you can find over 50,000 events from 28 different types of endurance sports. Whether it’s swimming, mountain biking or even cross-country skiing, it’s never been easier to find the right event for you! [Discover more challenges]( Thank you for having us in your inbox 💚 Your Ahotu Team [Running]( [Cycling]( [Swimming]( [Triathlons]( Let’s stay connected Looking for global inspiration, giveaways and regular endurance updates? Follow our socials down below. Ahotu Brahegatan 4, Stockholm, 114 37 [Unsubscribe]( - [Unsubscribe Preferences]( Ahotu ™