The temple's contemplative setting is further accented by the occasional visit of Buddhist monks in amber-colored robes. The monks contrast the dense mix of commerce in the Old Quarter and the old guard politics of Communism seen at Ho Chi Minh's tomb and the nearby Army Museum. Crowds of stylishly dressed Vietnamese sped by me on new Vespas and pedestrians carried shopping bags emblazoned with logos from Sony and Calvin Klein. Passing vendors offered fresh mangos and apples from baskets balanced on their shoulders, and throughout the quarter aged French colonial homes were being restored. The U.S. Embassy in Hanoi is located at 7 Lang Ha Street, Hanoi.
Restaurants serving Vietnamese fare abound, but cuisine from all over the world is also available.
The Hotel Continental at 10 Hang Vai is located in old quarter. Rooms in this French colonial-style building are clean, and comfortable. The Cyclo Cafe at 38 Pho Duong Thanh is a well-known spot in the Old Quarter for expatriot travelers and serves a tasty mix of traditional Vietnamese food and western fare. There are a number of ice cream shops and European cafes along the west side Hoan Kiem Lake. Visitors will also find the main branch of the Vietnamese bank here for money exchange.