Hanoi's finest hotel is a slice of colonial history, with its restored French-colonial facade, mahogany-panelled reception rooms and haute cuisine. Rooms in the Heritage Wing have unmatched colonial style and have hosted Charlie Chaplin and Graham Greene – the latter wrote The Quiet American while staying here. The modern Opera Wing has sumptuous levels of comfort, if not the same character.
Even if you’re not a guest here, pop in for a poolside cocktail at the Bamboo Bar, which is surprisingly reasonably priced.