LOT Polish Airlines is strengthening its presence in Asia. The national carrier is set to launch a new connection with Hanoi, Vietnam

Asia has long attracted travelers with its unique cultural richness and some of the most interesting tourist destinations in the world. The growing interest in traveling to Asia is reflected by the consistent expansion of LOT Polish Airlines' route network. The national carrier, expected to launch direct flights to Bangkok soon as well, is expanding its offering with a year-round connection to Hanoi.

The Warsaw-Hanoi route will operate year-round, with three flights per week. Departures from Chopin Airport will take place on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 3:15 PM, while return flights from Hanoi will take to the skies on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 8:35 AM local time. Flights from Poland to Hanoi will last approximately 10 hours and 25 minutes, and the return journey will take 11 hours and 20 minutes, with passengers enjoying the comfort of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

Some locations take a while to reveal their true character. Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, does not attempt to seduce anyone by being spectacular. Instead, it relies on its authenticity. It is multifaceted, full of contrasts, and surprisingly harmonious. The first impression? Traffic. Thousands of mopeds, street vendors, bustling markets, and a city rhythm that seems somewhat chaotic at first. However, a few hours are usually enough to realize that this apparent chaos is governed by its own rules. Hanoi lives on the streets. This is where residents eat breakfast seating on small plastic chairs, drink strong coffee with condensed milk, and go about their daily lives.

It is best to start the morning at Hoàn Kiếm Lake, where locals practice tai chi, go jogging, or simply meet up before starting the day. A moment later, one may get lost in the streets of the Old Quarter, where each street has been specializing, for centuries, in a different craft – from silk and jewelry to bamboo products. The Temple of Literature – Vietnam's first national university, a symbol of respect for knowledge and education – is a must see as well. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and its surrounding historical complex offer a completely different perspective, providing a better understanding of the country's modern history. In the evening, it is worth attending a show staged at a traditional water puppet theater – a form of art originating from the flooded rice fields of northern Vietnam, which has remained, until today, one of the most distinct elements of local culture.

It is impossible to talk about Hanoi without mentioning its food scene. The capital of Vietnam is considered one of Asia's most important culinary cities. It is here that pho – an aromatic broth, simmered for hours and served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and beef or chicken - is best enjoyed. Hanoi is also the birth place of bun cha – grilled pork served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a light sauce. At the street stalls, one may also try crispy spring rolls, bánh mì, a baguette being a culinary legacy of French colonization, and bánh cuốn – delicate rice pancakes prepared in the presence of guests.

Coffee is an experience in its own right. Vietnam is one of the largest coffee producers in the world, and Hanoi is famous for its unique egg coffee – coffee with a velvety foam made from egg yolks, sugar, and condensed milk. The treat is a dessert and espresso in one.

Hanoi is also the perfect starting point for longer journeys exploring Vietnam. North of Hanoi lies Sapa, a mountainous region renowned for its monumental rice terraces, lush green valleys, and villages inhabited by ethnic minorities. Your next stop is Ninh Binh – limestone rock formations rising above the rice fields, tranquil rivers, and traditional boat cruises through caves and green valleys create one of Asia's most extraordinary landscapes. The journey through northern Vietnam culminates at the Ha Long Bay – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where thousands of limestone islands emerge from the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. The route showcases Vietnam's true diversity – from mountainous landscapes to peaceful valleys and historic sites, to one of the world's most recognizable natural wonders.

Tickets for LOT Polish Airlines flights between Warsaw and Hanoi are available through all sales channels, including lot.com, the carrier’s official mobile app, LOT Contact Center and LOT Travel agents.