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Hanoi is not only the capital of Vietnam; it is the political and cultural center
of the country. Hanoi Overview tells us that it is a city begat by mythology and
inspired by legends. It has been a survivor of countless violent struggles and
political intrigues, sustained on patriotism, ideology and the willful independence
of its people. This is a city that has experienced an eventful millennium.
Located on the banks of the Red River with tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake at its heart,
Hanoi is the capital of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. North of the lake
are the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, each street named after the trade
that used to take place there. Hanoi Overview relates the tale about its history
when Ho Chi Minh established the Viet Minh during the Second World War in order
to gain independence.
History of Hanoi
Hanoi became a French protectorate in the 1880s. There are wide boulevards
and large colonial buildings which have now been taken over by government departments
and foreign embassies. Vietnam was reunited under Hanoi and communist rule in
the year 1974.
The residents of Hanoi faced a hard time reconstructing the austere city. Hanoi
had been continuously bombed by the Americans throughout the Vietnam War. Rampant
inflation, poverty and repression followed it. The government introduced economic
reform or doi moi in 1986, allowing people to own their own businesses. Now
Hanoi has been totally transformed and visitors are entranced by the city and
its residents.
Geography of Hanoi
Hanoi Overview includes the geography of Hanoi. Hanoi, the capital of the Socialist
Republic of Viet Nam, is a pleasant and even charming city. It has famous lakes,
shaded boulevards and verdant public parks. You can also witness architectural
museum piece. In a nutshell, the city of Hanoi is replete with interesting natural
attractions.
Demography of Hanoi
The city of Hanoi has a land area of 2,139 sq.km and a population of about
3,000,000. In the past, Hanoi was first chosen by King Ly Thai To as the capital
of the country and was named Thang Long (Descending Dragon) in 1010.
Tourist attractions in Hanoi
Hanoi has undergone many dramatic changes resulting in buildings being razed
and rebuilt or replaced by structures of different regimes. The result is a
mix of ancient Chinese-influenced Vietnamese, neo-Parisian, Edwardian, French,
neo-Vietnamese-French fusion and Soviet-era Russian architectural styles. Despite
its turbulent past, Hanoi today is a modernizing city that retains much of its
romantic Old World charm. In Hanoi, fall and spring are splendid for discovering
this city's many sites-the serene, tree-lined lakes and the many museums, pagodas
and tourist attractions that are a testament to its interesting, varied history.
Also see the many crafts that began with the 36 original guilds of the Old Quarter.
If you have already been to Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi is a city with seasons
and moods, two lovely, one too hot, one a bit dreary; a downtown that sleeps
at night; a more polite, conservative citizenry; and a long established artistic
and intellectual tradition. Hanoi Tourist Information Center caters you with
all the necessary information. You can take your pick from the ample accommodation
facilities available here.
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