France’s “Le Nouvel Observateur” (The New Observer) newspaper has published a two-page article praising Hanoi’s beauty on its 1,000th birthday.

Entitled “1,000-year-old Hanoi”, the article stated that Vietnam ’s capital city is considered by some to be the most beautiful and charming city in Southeast Asia , as it incorporates both Vietnamese and French styles and architecture.

Besides the old quarter, the “ideal” city was been built from around 1882 with many trees, pagodas and beautiful villas imbued with an architectural style that can be sometimes seen in France’s Cote d’Azur region.

According to the writer, the best way to enjoy Hanoi is to wander about the streets to discover the hidden charms of Asian and European styles.

Tourists can also admire Ho Guom (Sword Lake) or Hoan Kiem Lake in the heart of the city with Ngoc Son Temple connected to the lakeside by a red bridge called The Huc, said the article.

The author wrote that tourists should not miss the chance of experiencing Hanoi at dawn, with many elderly people doing morning exercises, pupils going to school and adults hurrying off to work. After witnessing the animated atmosphere of the early morning, they can go to a “pho” (noodle soup) restaurant to enjoy this special dish.

The article also praised Hanoian cuisine, saying that the city is home to many intriguing restaurants, uniquely decorated and with friendly service.