"Temple of Literature, Hanoi Don't skip Temple of Literature when you visit Hanoi , especially if it is during the time of the New Year Celebrations. This is when students and their families will come and pay a visit and calligraphists will assemble outside the temple and write wishes in Hán tự for a good luck in the next coming year This is a great celebration of color and a lot of excitement from the students"

"Words can do little justice to the scenery that awaits travelers to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Hundreds of forested limestone karst formations rise from emerald-green waters, looking like slumbering creatures ready to stir. The islands have a legend behind them: The gods sent a family of dragons to assist Vietnam 's emperors in repelling invaders, and the creatures spat out jewels and pieces of jade that turned into the islands. Many tourists come here on a day trip from Hanoi that involves an early departure, a three-hour bus ride to the ferry terminal, and a four-hour cruise along with scores of other boats before a transfer back to the capital. To truly appreciate the natural beauty with a modicum of solitude, take an overnight cruise—waking in the morning to the sight of the mist-shrouded peaks without the distraction of tons of other boats (and their gawking passengers) is unforgettable."

"Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi One of the best parts about visiting Hanoi as a traveler is the food—so fresh, so delicious, and so abundant that you can literally trip over it when trying to navigate the city's notoriously crowded sidewalks. This vegetable vendor outside Dong Xuan Market was just one of many selling a rainbow of raw ingredients, but her harmonious arrangement strategy made her goods stand out that much more. To get to Dong Xuan Market, which also has an enormous covered market, start at the northwest side of Hoan Kiem and walk up Hang Dao, which turns into Hang Ngang, Hang Duong, and then Dong Xuan, all without your having to take a single turn."

"Though the venerable Vietnamese leader asked to be cremated, Ho Chi Minh's remains now reside embalmed inside this imposing, pillared, gray-granite memorial. His resting place is hugely popular, drawing Vietnamese in droves as they pay their respects to the most important figure of contemporary Vietnam . The mausoleum only opens in the mornings, and visitors must abide by a number of rules (these include no hats, no shorts, and no photos inside). Yes, it's a chance to see the actual remains of a hugely influential leader, but the experience of queuing up for entry is also a way of mingling with ordinary Vietnamese."

"Cafe Pho Co – Hanoi Hideout There are some days on the road when you just feel like disappearing—surrendering to the urge to recoil and escape the pressures of travel. Those are the times when sanctuary can casually surface from a busy street scene and draw you in. Hanoi is collection of controlled chaos, even for locals. From the traffic to the morning propaganda announcements, it's all a bit crazy for the casual observer. Embracing the rhythm of the city, you begin to understand the opportunity of place. So much is hidden in plain sight, and Cafe Pho Co is a perfect example. It's the kind of spot where having the address is no guarantee. Even standing in front of the location confounds. Therein lies the adventure. The map to this treasure starts with the international landmark for chicken - KFC. The location you're looking for is at the north end of Hoan Kiem Lake. There is a large fountain in a traffic circle, and you'll also see the HSBC in a large white building. Walk north past the building turning left at the end. Now on Hang Gai street, you'll feel the neighborhood closing in, making it difficult to really see what you're looking for. Glide down the block a few doors and look for a shop that sells art supplies. When you find it, enter the art store and look for a doorway in the back with a sign over it that says "cafe." Fresh French pastries, Vietnamese coffee dripping, and fruit smoothies join you in the bliss on the highest patio overlooking the lake. So splendidly habit forming."

"Use Pedal Power to Peruse the Highlights The first thing that everybody comments on about Hanoi is its heavy traffic, and it is true that the mayhem can be intimidating for those with a timid disposition. Nevertheless, enclaves of peace and quiet remain and a number of fascinating bike tours are available. Many operators run trips over the Red River to the rural villages outside Hanoi. Another popular spot, meanwhile, is Tay Ho (or West Lake). Pick up a rental bike at Hanoi Bicycle Collective and saddle up."

"Enjoy a Literary Nightcap Owned and operated by journalist and raconteur Nguyen Qui Duc, this Hanoi institution is now in its fourth incarnation near the Opera House. Expect a bohemian crowd, an eclectic music policy and a great selection of wine. Among the other strings in Duc's bow is a talent for furniture making and his bar is a showroom for some of his exquisite handmade items."

"A Great Way to Start the Day The main draw at this Australian-run spot is the convivial and bohemian atmosphere. Housed in a stunning 1920s colonial villa in a quiet part of the Old Quarter, the cafe has a rustic, warm vibe. While items from the simple menu can be hit or miss at other times of the day, the breakfast offerings are exemplary and the coffee is right on the money."

"Get to Grips With the Tenets of Hanoi Cuisine While eating Vietnamese food is never a chore, making and then eating it is even more rewarding. Hanoi Cooking Centre offers short courses and hands-on cooking classes in a relaxed atmosphere with recipes designed by Tracy Lister who has authored several cookbooks on Vietnam. The school can also arrange other food-related activities such as street food tours and market visits. In addition to its classes and tours, the centre has a lovely courtyard cafe."

"Perhaps the Most Evocative Pagoda in Hanoi On Jade Island on Hoan Kiem Lake, this picturesque 18th-century shrine is perhaps the city's most beautiful. To get to the temple, walk through Three Passage Gate and across the Flood of Morning Sunlight Bridge. Once at the temple, you will reach a small courtyard where old men indulge in spirited games of Chinese chess."

"Follow the White Horse The oldest temple in Hanoi , this small structure in the heart of the Old Quarter was built by King Ly Thai To in the 11th century to honour a white horse that led him to the site. There's a statue of the legendary horse inside the pagoda as well as a beautiful and ornate shrine. Photo by Prince Roy/Flickr ."