For a sobering look into Vietnam's tumultuous past, visit Hoa Lo Prison, ironically nicknamed the "Hanoi Hilton" by American POWs during the Vietnam War. Originally built by the French colonial government to incarcerate Vietnamese political prisoners, the prison became notorious for its harsh conditions. Later, during the war with the USA, it housed American prisoners of war.

Today, much of the original prison has been demolished, but the remaining gatehouse has been converted into a museum. Exhibits primarily focus on the suffering of Vietnamese revolutionaries under French rule, showcasing brutal conditions and recounting stories of resilience. There's also a section dedicated to the American POWs, offering a Vietnamese perspective on that period. It's a poignant and thought-provoking site that provides critical context to Vietnam's history.