Between the Red River and Lake Ho Tay, Hanoi invites you to experience the sweetness of life. In the heart of the old town, on the banks of the romantic Hoan Kiem Lake, you can take the pulse of the old town and enjoy the special atmosphere of the Vietnamese capital. On the programme: a walk through the narrow streets of typical architecture combining South Asian, Chinese and French influences, folklore with intense two-wheel traffic, a parade of locals jogging and qi gong on the banks. Here is a shop of antique furniture and giant Buddha heads, further on a shop of lacquered boxes and jewellery, and a succession of small restaurants and street stands where you can enjoy the delicious Vietnamese cuisine. In the evening, it is a puppet show on the water or cockfighting in a secret courtyard. Among the many small temples, look for Bach Ma's in honour of a legendary horse. Stroll between the stalls of the fruit, vegetable, fish or spice markets that occupy several streets. It is necessary to reach the Ba Dinh district to see the museum and the mausoleum of Uncle Ho (Ho Chin Minh). Then, discover by boat the mythical Baie d'Along where women sell beautiful embroidered tablecloths (impossible to refuse!). It will take you a little longer to reach the bay of Along maritime, another jewel, to furrow aboard a junk. And it is on a junk restaurant at anchor in the bay that you will dine. As a bonus, check out the incredible wooden cathedral of Phat Diem.