Prices are steep by local standards, though. And in Hanoi's streetside cafes, you can savour old-world atmosphere for free. Unfortunately, communist Vietnam's fraternal relations with Cuba do not extend to concessions on cigar prices. Nestled in the commodious humidor lie boxes of Romeo y Julieta and Cohiba cigars. Prices were more reasonable before the monetary crisis, Riaz admits.
New stocks come in from Bangkok at higher prices.
During the holiday season, hot mulled wine accompanied by a string trio playing Christmas carols came as close to evoking the Christmas spirit as anyone could get in Southeast Asia. Savouring this atmosphere in old Hanoi adds an element of surprise. The owners, Frenchmen Marc and Eric Merlin, appear to have bought into Vietnam's promise as a haven for investors. At the Press Club, prospective investors can find everything from an on-line office to a concierge service for mailing letters. Unfortunately, there are no rooms for overnight stays.