Hanoi, Vietnam is best known for its traditional architecture and a rich culture that has both French and Chinese influences, leftover from historical occupations. A good place to start an exploration of this city is in the Old Quarter. The city grows out from Hoan Kiem Lake, where on weekends the nearby roads are closed to traffic and festive days start with tai chi. The triangular-shaped Old Quarter is a short walk from there, offering visitors cheap shopping and a large concentration of street-food vendors. Other highlights include the Temple of Literature, Ngoc Son Temple, and Hoa Lo Prison Museum. The best views of the city are from the Lotte Observation Deck on the 65th floor of the Lotte Center.

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