Hanoi, Vietnam

Despite a rapidly growing economy, Hanoi has somehow managed to avoid the huge development seen by other Asian Capitals. This can only be good for the visitor who merely wants to experience the Orient/Asia he or she has imagined. It's still possible, though, to get lost in a maze of French Colonial streets with merchants of every description. This is not to say you won't find "brand name" stores catering to the super rich, but they're in the minority and haven't taken over this charming City.