Experience in Hanoi, Vietnam by Dang

What is it like to live in Hanoi? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Hanoi, which is the capital shares one same feature as most of the capitals, it's really hard for new people to catch up with the routine of it. For a fisrt few times, people might find it really noisy, messy and everything, but if you spend more time there you will ger addicted to it.

What is the student lifestyle like in Hanoi?

Well, it's pretty convenient to live in Hanoi as a student, they don't really have to worry about the accommodation, transportation or food because those are pretty affordable. Shop in Hanoi open 24/7/365, it does have a nigh life style then. Quite a lot of activities that student can get involved in.

How much does it cost to live in Hanoi?

For food, not so significant so I would not mention it. But the accommodation is pretty different depends on which district you're about to choose. One decent studio might fluctuate from 400-1000 euro. For transportation, it would be the best if you have a motorbike (or in case you don't have one then renting is one option), because traffic in Hanoi is quite crowded and the price for car is unreasonable, you need to be careful with the traffic

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Hanoi? Is there any advice you can give?

For foreigners, it's pretty hard to find accommodation online. I do not have general advice for this section. I know a couple friends who do the renting stuff, most of the foreign tenant either are living in Hanoi for a while or are introduced by some kinda mediator and inbetweener

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Food is the best thing in Hanoi, those are great with really reasonable price, restaurant never close even at midnight. I have some advices for food, do not go to big restaurant or something like that because signature food of Hanoi is street food and mos of them located in The Old Squares. My favorite is noodles, all kinds of noodle

What places would you recommend visiting in Hanoi?

Depends on where do you study. Hanoi has a several districts but there are 3 main districts located in the centre and next to each other. I would recommend to live somewhere nearby The Old Squares but not exactly in The Old Squares, just nearby.

Is it good to eat out in Hanoi? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

If you're lazy to cook, do not hesitate to go out and grab some delicious street food. Most of them located in The Old Squares.

I don't want to mention the name of all those restaurants because finding them is one of the favourite things to do for me in Hanoi

Is the nightlife good in Hanoi? Where is good to go?

Hanoi is the night life city. You can do alot of stuff
such as: going for a karaoke (private room with your friends, they do offer songs in English), watching movies even at 12am, having brunch at night,.... Or even simple as riding your motorbike around the city.

What advice would you give future students heading to Hanoi?

Be careful with the traffic
Do not eat at the big restaurant