Hanoi

By Joyce Ira

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Hanoi at Night

From the two words "Ha" meaning "river" and "Noi" meaning "within", Hanoi serves as the seat of power of Vietnam. The capital city is located at the right bank of the Red River, 1760km north of Ho Chi Minh City.

With a population of over 6 million, Hanoi the cultural centre of Vietnam. Each dynasty leaves behind its imprint. Although some relics have been lost to wars and antiquity, the city still offers numerous cultural and historic monuments for visitors and residents alike. Moreover, the city has a distinct French atmosphere, visible in the architectures that lends an aesthetically rich heritage.

Hanoi is also home to number of museums including:
- National Museum of Vietnamese History
- Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts
- Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
- Vietnam Museum of Revolution
- Hanoi Hilton
- Ho Chi Minh Museum
- Contemporary Arts Centre
- Vietnam Military History Museum
- The Hanoi Museum (currently under construction until 2010)

The whole city also offers a variety of options for entertainment. Modern and traditional theaters, cinemas, karaoke bars, dance clubs, bowling alleys and an abundance of opportunities for shopping provide leisurely activity for both locals and tourists.

For food enthusiasts, Hanoi has rich food traditions and many of Vietnam’s famous dishes such as pho, banh cuon and com. The city is a delightful retreat for everyone.


Hanoi is accessible by air via Noi Bai International Airport.
Alternatively, trains depart from Ho Chi Minh, although the trip can take as long as 2 days.




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