Hanoi is the vibrant capital of Vietnam and it is also one of the bright lights of cities in Asia. In addition to the gorgeous architecture, much of which dates from the colonial period, you will also find an engaging clutch of museums that will fill you in on all the history. Halong Bay, the unique beauty of the bay, with its towering limestone karsts, make this a natural wonder worthy of a UNESCO World heritage listing. There are more than 1,600 islets in the bay, their limestone worn down by 500 million years of tropical downpours, and topped by thick jungle growth.