Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and the country's second largest city by population. It is situated along the Red River and lies about a thousand miles away from the city’s most important city, Ho Chi Minh City. Hanoi has served as the epicentre of politics and administration from 11^th to 19^th century, before it was subdued for a period of 5 years by Imperial Japanese Army during the Second World War. Once past that misadventure, Hanoi has risen through the ranks rapidly and celebrated its 1000 years of existence in 2010. You should visit this southeast Asian megacity for its stellar mix of art, architecture and culture. For those interested in street foods, Hanoi tops its prolific street food culture with a tinge of Chinese and French influences.

Things to do in Hanoi

Vietnamese Women's Museum

Vietnamese Women's Museum is dedicated to the unforgettable contributions of noted Vietnamese women over last millennium. The museum presents a full-view of their respective contributions. This is seconded by a stunning collection of many artistic hand-made ethnic costumes and several artefacts related to many social themes.

Ho Chi Minh Museum

Housed inside a shiny white building in Hanoi, the Ho Chi Minh Museum resembles a lotus from the outside. This museum, completed in 1990, is home to a haunting depiction of Vietnam’s brutal conflicts with the US and how the city was nearly devastated in the Vietnam War in 1960s. The displays here are marked in English, French, Chinese and Russian.

Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution

Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution is home to a moving depiction of the country’s glorious rise against the colonial French in mid-19^th century, Imperial Japanese in the Second world War and the US in 1960s. The museum is housed in a colonial French building dating back to 1932. It has over 200000 exhibits that are displayed in five theme-based sections.

Best Time to Visit Hanoi

Winter season (the months from November to January) are the best to book your flights from Los Angeles to Hanoi. Book your flights from LAX to HAN during this time of the year to enjoy famous cultural festivals and events like Vietnamese New Year that is celebrated with pomp and show. It is advised to book Hanoi flights in advance to avoid paying more during peak season.