Have you ever wondered which city is known as the Paris of Asia? If you are a travel enthusiast or a history buff, this question might have crossed your mind at some point. While there are many cities in Asia that share similarities with the City of Light, one city stands out from the rest – Hanoi.
Hanoi: The Paris of Asia
Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam and is located in the northern part of the country. It has a rich cultural heritage that dates back to over a thousand years.
The city was founded in 1010 AD by Emperor Ly Thai To and was initially called Thang Long, which means “ascending dragon.” Later on, it was renamed Hanoi, which means “in the river bend.”
The French colonial era had a significant influence on Hanoi’s architecture and culture. From 1887 to 1954, Hanoi was part of French Indochina, along with Laos and Cambodia.
During this period, the French built many beautiful buildings that still stand today. The wide boulevards lined with trees, old villas with faded colors, and charming cafes make Hanoi an ideal destination for those who love European architecture.
Hanoi’s French Quarter
One of the most popular areas in Hanoi is the French Quarter. This area includes Hoan Kiem Lake and its surroundings, where most of the French colonial buildings are located. Some notable buildings include:
- The Opera House: Built-in 1911 by two French architects who were inspired by Palais Garnier in Paris.
- St. Joseph’s Cathedral: Built-in 1886 in Gothic Revival style.
- Hotel Sofitel Legend Metropole: One of Southeast Asia’s oldest hotels, built-in 1901.
The Charm of Old Quarters
Apart from the French Quarter, Hanoi’s Old Quarters is another area that attracts many visitors. The Old Quarters is a maze of narrow streets, each specializing in selling different goods, such as food, silk, or jewelry. The buildings in this area are old and narrow, with French and Chinese influences.
If you want to experience the charm of the Old Quarters, take a stroll along Hang Bac Street to see silver shops or Hang Dao Street to see silk shops. You can also try local street food like banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich) or pho (Vietnamese noodle soup).
Conclusion
Hanoi’s nickname as the Paris of Asia is well-deserved. Its unique blend of Southeast Asian and European architecture makes it a fascinating destination for travelers who want to experience something different. So if you’re planning your next trip to Asia, don’t forget to include Hanoi on your list!
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