Ho Chi Minh, affectionately called "Uncle Ho", was the most loved leader of Vietnam who will forever stay in people's hearts. His final resting place, the granite mausoleum in the heart of Hanoi, is one of the most visited places in the capital. People go to pay their respects in front of the glass case with his preserved body where the lines are huge and the dress-code is strict.

The sprawling complex of Dong Xuan Market is the largest in Hanoi and a sight to be seen! Enter through the signature arched entrance and shop till you drop the variety of cheap clothing, apparel and souvenirs. Then visit the wet market where exotic produce will confuse the senses and feed your curiosity.

This historic coffee shop is a proof of why Vietnam is world famous for its coffee! Cafe Duy Tri has been a Hanoi favorite since the day it opened its doors in 1936. Climb the tiny stairs among the 3 narrow floors to find a spot and then enjoy one of the best cups of strong yet smooth coffee you have ever had... Another highlight of the menu is the yogurt! You can even try coffee with yogurt... How about that?! Enjoy!

This unique art form has its roots in Northern Vietnam since the 11th century when villagers entertained themselves with puppet shows over the flooded rice fields. Today, Water Puppet Show is THE cultural entertainment to experience in Hanoi! Enjoy the classic tales and legends told by the colorful wooden puppets gracefully floating over the pool of water as traditional Vietnamese orchestra plays the songs and tells the stories. There are quite a few venues where the Water Puppet Show is performed but the most popular one is the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre.

Built by the French in the 1890s, Hoa Lo Prison was used to incarcerate Vietnamese revolutionaries. Ironically called "Hanoi Hilton" during the American War, it was also used to imprison captured American pilots, notably Senator John McCain whose flight suit is on display today. Currently only one part of the prison still stands and is used as a museum, mostly focused on the Vietnamese struggle for independence.

Built in 1070, the Temple of Literature is the first Vietnamese university, initially accepting only royals and nobles. It is dedicated to Confucius and honors the country's greatest scholars. The architecture is a fine example of typical Vietnamese construction with gorgeous landscaping and a series of pavilions. A visit to the Temple of Literature is a profound experience, one of beauty and spirituality. 

Hoan Kiem Lake, "The Lake of the Returned Sword", embodies the legend of Vietnam's independence from the Chinese. A magic sword was given by the gods to the strong military leader who used it to drive the enemy away. The sword was then taken by a turtle and dragged into the Hoan Kiem Lake waters to be returned to the gods. Nowadays, the Hoan Kiem Lake is a heavenly place where people go to enjoy the beautiful nature, admire the ancient temple in the waters and just relax or do some tai chi. This wonderful city highlight is a favorite photoshoot spot for its picturesque surroundings where you'll often see newly weds taking their first photos as husband and wife.

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is an icon of historical and cultural significance. It was the political center of Vietnam for centuries and now its 40 meters high central flag tower is one of the most recognizable symbols of Hanoi. This important archaeological site is an evidence of the great commercial power that it used to be with evidence of training among all countries in the region.

The 36 streets of Hanoi Old Quarter represent the beginning of the city, established in 1010. Over 1000 years of history and the Old Quarter still remains authentic with its narrow streets named after the goods they sell. Explore the local culture as you observe the busy street life or visit the numerous pagodas. Most all, take advantage of the cheep shopping and delicious eats!

Thousands of limestone islands and islets emerging from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin and creating a mesmerizing water maze... This is Ha Long Bay! The most magical place in Vietnam and one of the most visited natural beauties of South-East Asia. The virgin rain forests on top of the limestone add an incredibly picturesque contrast with the sparkling blue waters and invite explorers to admire them from a far or hop on and backpack through the wilderness. The outstanding scenic beauty of Ha Long Bay is further complemented by the incredible variety of sea-life making it a scuba-diving paradise! Inland lakes, gorgeous grottoes and unique caves await to be discovered on Dau Be and Dau Go Islands. Continue on to Ben Ho Island and explore the magical Hung Sung Sot Cave, Pelican Cave and Virgin Cave. Ensure to stop by and grab some food and drinks at Cat Ba Island, then experience the local fishermen's life on the floating villages of Ha Long Bay.