Hanoi Holidays

Like the rest of the country, Hanoi’s past and present have been affected by the many wars and power struggles that have plagued the country along the way. It survived bombs, political upheaval and destruction only to appear in the 1990s as a prime example of French colonial architecture with its grand boulevards, lakes and parks making it a romantic French-inspired city with hints of Paris.

And yet it is still very Vietnam, with its city packed with motorcycles and an ever fluid jolt forward marching confidently toward progress. A holiday in Hanoi will introduce you to a determined city that while less frenetic than Saigon still maintains that wonderful, inspiring Vietnamese resolve. Situated on the banks of the Red River marshes and lagoons this modern, ever-growing city is surrounded by hundreds of beautiful ancient temples and pagodas, reminders of the eleventh century city. A great place to visit is the Temple of Literature, home to Vietnam’s foremost Confucian sanctuary and its first university. The Military History Museum gives insight into the 20th century wars that ripped through Vietnam, showcasing Vietnam’s tenacity and spirit while the temples offer a spiritual presence that draws visitors in to this vibrant city and country.

In Hanoi you will find an Old Quarter of winding alleys, crowded markets and traditional shop quarters; tree lined avenues flanked by colonial villas and a Soviet-style mausoleum housing the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh. From here you can also take a day trip to Halong Bay for a lunch cruise around the limestone islands.

A luxury holiday in Hanoi offers a chance to experience some of the heart of Vietnam in the midst of a busy city while offering more mellow places to find peace and reflection. Holidays to Hanoi will leave you inspired and challenged as you experience this beautiful country through one of its most important cities.