A night ride through any city offers a new view of its life, buildings, and history. This was true for Hanoi as well. Our open deck bus took us through busy streets , past French colonial era buildings, modern and ancient structures that highlight Vietnam’s rich past. From the Old Quarter to Ba Dinh Square and West Lake, we saw both historical monuments and symbols of modern Vietnam all in a short ride.
THE Hanoi Opera House built in 1911 is a classic example of French Architecture in Vietnam. Located in the heart of the city , it is still in use and hosts Vietnamese operas and shows . The Hanoi Flag Tower originally part of the Citadel was built in 1812. Much of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long was demolished to make way for French barracks. This was one of the few structures that was spared to serve as a lookout! The Imperial Citadel is a UNESCO heritage site. Unless you are a history buff the remains of the Citadel are best avoided . Sadly, did not get a photo of the main gate of the citadel . I was not impressed at all!The Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh is the resting place of his embalmed body. The military guard provides a solemn air which evokes humble respect for the Vietnamese leader of the revolution. Photography is not permitted inside the grounds and we were glad to take this picture at night.
The Bac Son monument is a memorial to the martyrs of the Vietnamese revolution. Constructed as late as 1993 and hence its modern architecture. It is located at Ba Dinh Square across the road from the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum .
The Presidential Palace located besides the Mausoleum and was built as a home for the French Governor General in 1906.It is now the official residence of the President of Vietnam. The National Assembly Building houses the National Assembly .Across the road from many places of interest in the Ba Dinh Square Built in the late 19th Century this catholic church in the Old district was the first of many built by the French.Hoan Klim walking street -Closed for traffic on weekends Quan Thanh temple dates back to the Ly dynasty and a must see during the day as wellA quiet moment – Hanoi Opera House Temple of Literature dedicated to Confucius and dates back to the 11 th century, Built demolished and rebuilt many a time
We ended the evening with dinner on the Hoan Kleim lake walking street. A trip well worth it. I have now added a night ride as part of my itinerary in every city I visit. Not only do you get a different perspective but also drive past some of the tourists spot that did not figure on my A list. While in Hanoi, plan your itinerary wisely and carefully select temples , pagodas and structures unless you are a keen student of history or architecture.
Travel with Ramanand 
Hanoi looks beautiful here! Great pics.
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