Modern, efficient mass transit has not yet arrived in Hanoi. There is no subway or elevated train system, and while there is an extensive network of bus routes, they are generally slow and extremely crowded. Most expats rely on taxis, which are often cheaper than a bus or subway ticket would be back home–cab fare is only about $5 from the center of town to the outlying areas of Westlake. For short distances many foreigners also make use of moto-taxis, or “xe oms” (pronounced “say-ohm”), where motorbike drivers will ferry you around quickly and efficiently. As with everything in Hanoi, once you settle into your routine, you’ll find out which option works best for you–many expats even have “regular” taxi or xe om drivers who wait at appointed times to take their fares to or from work.
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Top Tips
01 | Though there are many shopping options in Hanoi, you may find that the style or size you need is unavailable. Large western sizes can be very elusive! |
02 | Learning Vietnamese offers an important window onto Hanoi society and culture & helps at all levels of social interaction and day-to-day convenien |
03 | GET OUT OF TOWN! just a weekend away can work restorative miracles. Don’t wait till you feel run down—plan excursions in advance and keep |
04 | Mail delivery from overseas is not always reliable, so try to think in advance of any books, CDs, or software you may need in Vietnam. |
05 | Set up online banking before you leave, and be sure to notify your bank you’ll be using your ATM card in Vietnam—otherwise they may think |
Useful links
- http://www.vietlonghousing.com
Hanoi Real Estate Rentals for foreign community includes: Villas, Houses, Apartments and Offices. - http://hanoigrapevine.com
Hanoi’s arts and culture website, with reviews and previews of concerts, galleries, films and openings. - http://vietnamnews.vnagency.com.vn
Online version of Vietnam’s English-language daily newspaper. - http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/en/
The New Hanoian-A Craigslist-style community bulletin board. - http://stickyrice.typepad.com
Blog about food, restaurants and bars in Hanoi.
Interesting fact
Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and has remained so since the 7th century though French and Japanese occupations. |