Old Quarter Streets, Hanoi, Vietnam

This was our introduction to Hanoi--where crossing the street can feel like risky business. We stayed at a hotel that overlooks Hoàn Kiếm Lake, which is right on the edge of the Old Quarter, and an easy if confusing walk away. The 36 guild streets of the Old Quarter were named for 36 trades or craft that set up in this area north of the lake, and created high-quality goods to supply the royals in the Thang Long Citadel, just steps away. Today only a few streets sell the same products they once did. Some streets, however, have kept the traditions of the past; and these can be great fun to explore on foot, and with your camera in hand.

Hàng Bạc (Silver Street), where silversmiths once made money and jewellery for the palace, still houses jewellery stores and money changers. Hàng Mã is where Hanoians go to buy religious goods and festival decorations. Hàng Gai, now known as Silk Street, was named for the pinkish dye this street famously sold and used in clothing. Shops here now trade in fabrics and custom-made suits and dresses. Lãn Ông is a fragrant street filled with traditional medicines and herbs.

Ô Quan Chưởng Gate is the only gate left of the wall that once protected the area surrounding Thang Long Citadel, not far away. The gate as you see it was re-constructed in 1817, although originally it was built in 1749. The gate is named for the rank of a Vietnamese soldier who showed great courage in defending the gate and citadel against a French attack in 1873. Today, it's an important marker and symbol of Vietnamese spirit. While you explore the historic center, keep a lookout for the many pagodas built by ancient traders. The Old Quarter was partially settled by Chinese immigrants who also chose it as a location to do business. To get a glimpse into the lives of these Chinese merchant families in the past, visit Mã Mây House, a UNESCO-protected heritage home.