Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, has a unique way to blend in East and West, past ang present, showing evidence of its unconditional attraction to many invaders throughout the centuries. It is now blooming into once of the finest cities in Southeast Asia, fascinating all tracelers with its many facets and unfathomable charms.

After the long ride on the brand new highway from Noi Bai Airport, it is a bit of a shock for the visitors to finally reach the city and enter the maxe of cluttered streets where motobikes, cyclos and small vendors fight for the right to the road. Shops overflow onto the pavement, hawkers complete to get your attention, food stalls beckon at every corner. To get the feel of it, you should stroll around the small lake at dawn and join the tai chi classes, visit the Old Quarter by cyclo, eat "cha ca" at night in an outdoor "quan", explore the night markets for unusual finds...

Yet Hanoi is also a city of lakes, shaded boulevards, old colonial houses. monuments and deserves a thorough visit, accompanied by a guide or at your own pace, to soak in the historical value of the city. Our purpose in this guide is to share with you what we know about this lively and enchanting city and to help you discover the people and places behind the alleyways and the frenzied traffic.