Hanoi is a city devoted to politics rather than business. But even though the Communist Party remains firmly in charge and lines form each day to catch a glimpse of the mummified Ho Chi Minh on display in a Soviet-style mausoleum, the city is not oppressive. The narrow streets that make up the Old Quarter, many named in the medieval fashion after the trades long practiced there, are still wonderfully atmospheric places for a stroll.

Join Andrew Harper today to continue reading our exclusive content.