Hanoi in nothern Vietnam is a fascinating place to experience. It's a hustling and bustling city with a constant barrage and flow of motorbikes, street shops, and tightly bunched French colonial style buildings. Tourists and backpackers are in good amount, but I appreciate how the city and people don't stop to cater to them, but allow them to be immersed in the experience of the daily life and culture.
I'm with you right there man. I was lucky enough to check out Halong Bay too, and it was definitely a sight to see. You gotta make it out there!