Hanoi

Originally called Thang Long, Hanoi boasts of 1,000 years of history marvelously preserved. It has been ranked among the world’s most attractive and interesting cities. Its Soviet-influenced concrete monolith architecture, gives the streets of Hanoi a regal flavor. The endless stream of motorbike and bicycle traffic gives the impression that Hanoi’s population of 3.5 million residents is constantly in motion.

Getting Around

Hanoi’s staple mode of public transportation is the bus. They are extremely crowded and knowledge of some basic Vietnamese words would be very helpful when riding one. That’s why it is actually advisable to rent a car. Or better yet, ride motorcycle taxis. They are cheap and an easy way to get around the city. This ride is not for the weak-hearted, though, as they are driven around the city with exhilarating speed.

Things to See

While the streets of Hanoi are historical eye candies themselves, the city’s sightseeing highlights are the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum, the National Art Museum, the Hoa Lo Prison, and the Old Quarter.

Every visitor of Hanoi should at least see one puppet show at night. While it might sound like an attraction for kids, it is actually an enchanting narration of Hanoi’s history expressed through intricately skilled puppetry. One of the tales often told is the legend of Hoan Kiem Lake and the peaceful founding of Hanoi.

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