Hanoi Rocks

By Author: Bonny Kominek
Total Articles: 230
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If you are thinking about traveling to Asia this autumn, there is one place you should be sure to pass through. In October of this year, Vietnam''s capital, Hanoi will celebrate its 1000th birthday, and with the planned celebrations it sounds like you shouldn''t miss out.

Not that Vietnam is overlooked by tourism: however it is usually frequented by backpackers and young travelers passing through Asia on long-haul trips. Nevertheless, there is much for all of us to learn about the fascinating history and culture of an area previously demonized through Cold War sloganeering.

And there is plenty to look forward to in the big birthday party: in summer 2009, Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung approved a proposed programme of exciting celebrations, some spanning up to 10 days, which include performances, live art, and an opening spectacle at Hoan Kiem Lake (legendary Lake of the Returned Sword).

However, don''t think you just need to turn up and get drunk for 10 days. Hanoi has more to offer than good party-planning. Whilst the anniversary''s literary celebrations are a must-see, with local writers and ...
... artists challenged to produce Hanoi tributes, don''t be afraid to go further. Vietnam is a country of vast history and inspiring landscape which should not be overlooked.

For a start, the various changes in government and empire make this city of over 600 pagodas and temples more than just a pretty face. Hanoi was once the seat of the ancient Ly Dynasty, much later the trade centre for French Indochina, with prime waterside location ? and from 1954 the Communist epicenter of the country, Hanoi''s architecture tells a story.

On top of that, the city also retains the impressive buildings of colonial nineteenth century Hanoi - including the Hotel Metropole and the Presidential Palace. Alongside this French Indochinese imprint, you will also notice the most impressive achievements of Communist Vietnam: the majority of the country''s universities and its most forward-thinking scientific developments are the result of state funding in the 1950s and 60s.

Such diversity is evidence of what the city has to be proud of ? and celebrate. This autumn Hanoi could deliver a history lesson, a great party and a cultural awakening. Bonny Kominek scribed this article after being inspired by a recent trip to Hanoi, and the resources at Octopus Travel who offer cheap deals on Hanoi hotels.