Hanoi Travel Guide
Travel guide to Hanoi, Vietnam with comprehensive information about events, shopping, and major Hanoi sporting events to help you enjoy your visit more.
Hanoi Overview
Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam, and as the dominant part of the country it also houses the majority of the cultural, economic and political power.
The majority of buildings here retain their original French colonial style, which seems an odd image in many ways as North Vietnam, as it then was, was a communist country. The reason this architecture remains is that they were in conflict for most of the time, so resources would go into the armed forces rather than buildings.
The country's conflicts also form a significant element of the city's heritage, with a number of museums relating to the Vietnam War and before. It has to be said that there is a significant bias in the format, and for the western visitor probably a little overbearing. Better instead to enjoy some of the lovely parks here, watching the locals early morning tai chi sessions whilst savouring the natural beauty that is to be found here.
The city has a great spiritual feel to it, no doubt engendered by the many temples and shrines that are here, but also by the ways of the population. There is the hurried atmosphere found in all cities, but here there is a sense of tranquillity behind it. A peculiar sensation it has to be said, but true nevertheless.
Top Hanoi Attractions
The iconic leader of Vietnam Ho Chi Minh has a city named after him in the south of the country, however it is here in Hanoi that his body is held. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is definitely worth visiting due to the mans status within the country and historically as a political power. There are strict rules regarding entry, primarily regarding suitable attire to avoid appearing disrespectful.
Shopping in Hanoi
Hanoi offers some of the best bargains in the whole of Asia, particularly for silks, wood carved designs and bespoke tailored clothing. There are many other market stall sand shops, still offering many bargains, and one of the best aspects of the country. There are modern shopping malls too, the Trang Tien Plaza and Vincom City Towers. Here is shopping with a modern twist, reflecting the more modern approach of the city to commerce.
Hanoi Sporting Events
Hanoi is a mix of styles when it comes to sports. The visitor to the city is offered access to sports and activities via the hotel primarily, with swimming, tennis and golf being the main sports. The residents of the city see things a little differently though, so they will have swimming pools to visit but are more likely to enjoy martial arts than golf or tennis.
