I’ll certainly never forget my visit to Hanoi, Vietnam’s buzzing, highly charming capital. In fact, this was my first port of call on a month long adventure around the country. With its mesmerising old quarter, handsome temples and gorgeous lakes, I found myself immediately reeled in. 

Moreover, the city’s historical sights stand among the finest in Asia. Not least the mausoleum and museum dedicated to Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam’s iconic former prime minister and president.

There’s also the sobering Hoa Lo, a 19th century prison once inhabited by U.S. presidential candidate John McCain. And The Vietnamese Women’s Museum, in honour of the country’s best known and indeed unsung ladies.

Furthermore, I picked up some fascinating communist art prints at Old Propaganda Posters & Paintings. And drank in the city’s excellent train history at Long Bien Bridge & Railway Station and (the now deceased) Hanoi Train Street. 

Elsewhere, there were magnificent culinary adventures with my first ever tastes of Bun Cha and Banh Mi. Hanoi’s coffee culture is amazing too, especially at the various egg coffee establishments.

For the full lowdown on all these experiences, and many more, why not visit Hanoi through my travel articles on:

Bun Cha Nem Cua Be Dac Kim

Hanoi Train Street

Ho Chi Minh Complex

Hoa Lo Prison

Hoan Kiem Lake

Temple of Literature

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

The Old Quarter

& my roundup of choice spots from across the city

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