I liked Hanoi from the minute I arrived and it quickly became one of my favorite Asian cities. Lonely Planet describes it as “having a blend of Parisian grace with an Asian pace”. I loved the French colonial architecture, the energy, the art, the historic hotels and the food. It is a walking city, particularly in the Old Quarter, but with so many motor bikes you have to learn how to cross the street if you ever want to get to the other side. You step off the curb and walk at a regular, steady pace and they will go around you. It takes a little getting used to but it really works! You also see entire families on motor bikes with a husband, wife and two children. You will also see people carrying all different types of items including televisions.
