Was in Hanoi several years ago, stayed at the Sofitel Metropole (if you stay there, request a room in the older, original building. beautiful!) There was a fantastic little cafe across the street out the back door of the hotel, the Cafe Au Lac. In the courtyard of an old, rundown French villa. Best coffee and croissants i've ever had. I've just read a couple of things online that seem to indicate that entire block of buildings has been razed. Can any recent Hanoi travelers confirm/deny? Thank you.