Lobby of the Sofitel Plaza in Hanoi

Although Hanoi is undoubtedly a city of ancient wonder, there are a number of hotels with fantastic modern facilities which allow visitors to see the sites without roughing it. These are some of our favourites:

Mövenpick Hotel Hanoi This large hotel walking distance from the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake has 154 rooms and suites all with LCD flat screen televisions and international cable channels. All the usual mod cons plus wifi internet access is available. (83A Ly Thuong Kiet, Hoan Kiem District, hotel.hanoi.reservation@moevenpick.com, tel +84 4 3822 2800, from US$140)

Daewoo Hanoi Hotel This was the first five star in the city but despite recent renovations it most closely resembles an international four star hotel. Its position outside the city centre means that what you lose in convenience is made up for with peace and quiet. There are seven restaurants and cafes, two banks, discothèque, swimming pool, gym, business centre plus free broadband internet in rooms. (360 Kim Ma St, Ba Dinh, from US$170.)

Sofitel Plaza Hotel This hotel is renowned as the most picturesque in Hanoi with a charming zig-zag facade and striking stepped architecture. Formerly called the Meritus West Lake, the rooms are very well maintained and spotless with friendly staff. (1 Thanh Nien Road, Ba Dinh District)

InterContinental Hanoi Westlake This is the most recent addition to Hanoi’s choice of five star hotels and is found adjacent to the 800-year-old Golden Lotus Pagoda on the waters of Westlake (1A Nghi Tam, Tay Ho District, (84-4) 62708888)

Sofitel Metropole Hanoi Hotel This French Colonial style hotel within a short walk of the Hanoi Opera House is mostly used by older European travellers. The restaurant comes highly recommended. (15 Ngo Quyen St.)

Melia Hanoi Hotel Located within bried walking distance from both the Old Quarter and the Hanoi Towers, this hotel has big rooms with great views with international buffet breakfast included in the price. (Ly Thuong Kiet Street, from $139.)

Sheraton Hanoi Hotel This hotel and large gardens on the shore of West lake has lovely courtyards plus rooms furnished in traditional style but with all modern amenities. (K5 Nghi Tam, 11 Xuan Dieu Rd, Tay Ho District.)

The 'cay hoa sua' tree only flowers during autumn in Hanoi with a distinctive aroma

Spring brings the annual Tet holiday and this is when flowers are blooming and the city is at its most glorious. Locals of Hanoi believe that the light rain of this time bring good luck for the new lunar year and prosperity.

When summer comes along the heat and humidity become unbearable. Mosquitos come out in force along with other nasty insects so diseases such as malaria and dengue fever can become a serious problem. It is always wise to cover up (despite the searing heat!) and wear repellent, especially during the evening.

The autumn in Hanoi becomes much more tolerable with less moisture in the air and temperatures dropping to such a degree that jacket and jumpers are often sported by the Hanoians. Plus the indigenous species of ‘cay hoa sua’ tree only flowers at this time of year so and wondering the ancient streets is characterised by the scent of this distinctive aroma.

Winter is in fact quite brutal as there is a strange combination of cold and humidity. Many houses in this city don’t have any system of heating, making Hanoi appear colder than elsewhere in the country. It is wise to pack carefully and wear layers as the midday sun is still very fierce.

Hanoi has plenty of culture to offer its visitors. Aside from soaking up the city life over a coffee in a street side café, there are plenty of outlets where visitors can experience the arts and music scene in Hanoi.

The city’s most popular cultural attraction is the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. Vietnamese lyrics recount ancient stories from Vietnam’s history while wooden puppets dance on the water. The puppets are tiny, so it’s best to push the boat out and buy first class tickets for a clearer view.

Hanoi’s Opera House also hosts regular performances. The building is also an art work in itself, dating back to the 1900s and featuring elements of Colonial design.

The Jazz Club in Hanoi is a buzzing hub, and a lively spot for a drink, food and amazing jazz. The band kicks off at 21:00 and finish at 23:00. This is typical of venue’s in Hanoi, as there is a curfew to conform to.

Other bars in the city host live music every night of the week, including the Green Lake, Loft Bar and Restaurant and Ly Club.

Hanoi has plenty of culture for visitors to experience and the scene is always growing.

Vietnam has more than 50 different ethnic minorities, most of which live in the mountains surrounding Hanoi and in the north of Vietnam. Hanoi is on the receiving end of the beautiful products these ethnic groups produce.

Villagers are excellent craftspeople, and are skilled at making products such as bamboo goods, basketware, lacquerware and table cloths. The rising number of tourists has spurred the groups to increase production, so Hanoi is now teeming with handicraft shops selling their goods.

The embroidered and weaved goods make ideal gifts or souvenirs, and are usually of exceptionally good quality. Embroidery is applied to table cloths, bed linens and lots more. The price of these goods depends on how much time has been spent creating them. More detailed pieces are often more expensive due to the work put in.

The Tribal Pan Flute Shop, on Hang Bac, sells authentic ethnic minority products, some of which verge on antique status. It is also possible to find some second hand clothing from the tribes, which are great buys.

Hanoi is the best spot for handicraft shopping in terms of choice; however, it is possible to find a wide range of the same goods in markets in Saigon.

There are a number of thriving markets in Hanoi, which are popular with both tourists and locals. Locals swarm to markets to socialize as well as shop. This adds to the lively atmosphere found at most Asian markets.

Dong Xuan Market is a massive shopping mecca selling everything under the sun, and all at dirt cheap prices. The market is spread over three floors so put aside plenty of time for rummaging.

The Weekend Market is even more of a social affair, so if you are on a mission to shop it is best avoided.

Hang Da Market is a smaller outfit, but it has a good selection of items for sale. Here you can fine wine, flowers, high quality clothing and imported foods.

Remember to barter with the seller as the prices are marked up very high for tourist customers. Bartering should be kept lighthearted and offers should be made with a smile. This is the way to get the best results for all parties.

Hanoi is a fantastic shopping destination. The city boasts excellent shopping facilities and the competitive prices make it an even more fun. Many visitors to Hanoi are attracted to the city due to its fantastic shopping scene.

A varied range of goods is on offer in Hanoi, ranging from intricate handicrafts to designer label handbags. The choice is broad, and there are many irresistible bargains to be found. In Hanoi’s Old Quarter’s, entire streets are dedicated to selling a certain type of item.

Market shopping is a highlight when visiting any country in Asia. The vibrant trading centres are part of every day life and well worth experiencing. The social element of the market means it is possible to visit without any intention to shop. However, it is rare to leave empty-handed.

Hanoi is more a traditional shopping centre than commercial Saigon. The city’s close proximity to the many ethnic minority villages means there are lots of handicrafts and souvenirs for sale on the city’s streets.

The Old Quarter is the best shopping district, and there are some fantastic finds to be unearthed. Many craftsmen and artists reside in Hanoi, so it is often possible to buy directly from the person who crafted the item.

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Massage is a great way to relax both mentally and physically. Hanoi has some famous streets where massage parlours have been passed down throughout the generations, such as Le Duan, Cua Nam and Quan Thanh. There are also excellent massage centres at the Institure of Acupuncture and the Institute of Traditional Medicine.

A crop of massage shops has sprung up throughout the city, due to the increased demand for the service. Whatever your budget, it is possible to enjoy a good massage in Hanoi.

A variety of massages are on offer including Thai, Swedish and aromatherapy. Always have a look at the certificates on the walls to check which type of massage your therapist has trained in.

Thai massage involves a lot of kneading and manipulation, and yoga-like stretches. Swedish massage is gentler – oils are massaged into the skin using circular motions. Aromatherapy is similar, using essential oils to promote relaxation and well being.

You can ask your masseur or masseuse (therapists are usually female), to adjust her technique according to your preference. Don’t be afraid to inform them if you are finding it too hard and would prefer a softer massage.

Some other massages involve milk or aloe vera being massaged into the skin, this is healing and replenishing for sunburnt skin.

The ‘gay lifestyle’ known in the west is non-existent in Vietnam, so most of Hanoi’s gay population are in the process of raising a family and don’t frequent public places where they may be subject to gossip. Meaning Hanoi has a very limited gay nightlife scene.

The internet is the main communication tool between working gays in Hanoi. However, there is always an element of danger meeting people in this fashion. Many gay tourists are scammed and crimes happen, so caution is imperative.

There are some private gay tour operators, which offer visitors the chance to visit the sights of Hanoi with a group of gay travellers. These groups also stay in designated ‘gay-friendly’ hotels, recommended by the operator.

In general there is no trace of a gay scene in Hanoi, so the only way to meet local gays is on the internet. It is important to make friendly contact first and definitely avoid dashing into anything.

One of the joys of travelling in Asia, is the cheapness of relaxing health and body treatments. Massages, manicures and facials can be enjoyed for a fraction of the cost of the same treatment back home. Whether you are a budget backpacker or a flashy jetsetter, you can indulge yourself while in Hanoi.

Hanoi is home to a multitude of day spas. These independent businesses are dotted around the city, and provide a heavenly sanctuary for weary travellers. Spas and beauty salons in Hanoi usually offer the entire package of head-to-toe grooming services.

Massage is a great way to ease tired muscles after strenuous trekking, climbing or simply carting heavy luggage around. Guests can choose from a selection of massages, which usually includes Thai (manipulative), aromatherapy and Swedish (oil).

Manicures, pedicures and foot massage are readily available throughout Hanoi; however, if you are interested in having a custom designed facial to suit your skin, it is recommended you visit one of the larger spas.

There are also resort spas in Hanoi, where you can spend more than a day pampering yourself. Romantic couples’ programmes are also available, which is ideal for honeymooners. Lovers can enter a sensory paradise and enjoy the relaxing bliss together.

The evenings usually kick off in the early evening at Bia Hoi Corner, just north of Hoan Kiem Lake. Here, you can find the local bia hoi cheaper than anywhere else. It is slightly watered down, but it still tastes fine and is a bargain at 1,500VND cheaper than other bia hoi outfits.

Around the corner a handful of good bars offer a relaxing environment for travellers, complete with pool tables and daily drinks specials. Bars in this area are a great way to meet other travellers and exchange stories and advice. Some establishments, such as the lively Irish bar, manage to push closing time into the wee hours.

There are some good live music venues in Hanoi; however, there is usually too much focus on blaring out the latest Vietnamese pop ballad to keep locals happy. Minh’s Jazz Club on Luong Van Can Street is an exception and a must-see for all jazz lovers.