Hanoi is an inimitable city, branded by its world-renowned cuisine, striking history (told in its many quarters), and the constant beep of mopeds. Along the iconic Hang Be street in the Old Quarter, La Siesta is a glitzy, stylish and inventive hotel. If you don't believe us, check out the rooftop Lighthouse Sky Bar; it certainly does the trick, with walls of glass that take the shape of a ship 'moored' on the 10th and 11th floors in homage to the vessels that were once sold on the street. Inside, the suites are slick and refined with views over the bustling lanes below. Just the place to return to after a day out in Vietnam's capital.
Stepping out of the cacophony of Hang Be Street, La Siesta's lobby is grand and warmly lit with chandeliers. The Cloud Nine restaurant is designed with an Art Deco flourish with plush, high-backed couches, monochrome tiling, and ornate windows offering a 360° view of the city. Here, you'll enjoy a menu of authentic Vietnamese dishes (try the Hanoi barbecued pork) and international fare. Visit La Spa for a four-hands massage or herbal bath before heading to the roof for an epic sunset view and Stairway to Heaven cocktail.
Decorated in dark woods, grey moulded walls, and boudoir-style furnishings, the suites at La Siesta are well-groomed. King-sized beds fit to please the biggest bed snob dominate the room, a fireplace creates a cosy atmosphere, and the bathrooms (some semi open-air) are designed in moody tones with oval mirrors and large tubs. There are a range of room types, from the duplex suite with a downstairs lounge area to the Penthouse, which has a spacious patio, personal butler and complimentary chauffeur service.
Step one is to peruse the pho stalls and trinket shops along Hang Be Street, before venturing out to discover the history and culture of Hanoi. Stroll past the auspicious Opera House in the French Quarter, cross the fire-engine-red Rising Sun Bridge where soft-shell turtles swim in the lake below, and be sure to catch a show at the Water Puppet Theatre. Then, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to remember the famous liberation leader, or choose any one of Hanoi's 600 pagodas and temples for some reflection time.
The Lighthouse bar really is that good, so named for the red and white lighthouse that shines across the city every night.
Be sure to ask for your waiter's favourite local dishes - Hanoi is the Vietnam's food capital after all.
The front-facing rooms have the best views of the city, so it's worth requesting one when you book.
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‘Real deal’ Vietnam in the wonderfully chaotic capital
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