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Questions (10)
Does anyone know where I could buy a cheese fondue pot?
Just in preparation for winter...
Does anyone know where I can get a battery for my watch? A watch shop? Or are there some little fix-it shops around the old quarter?
And where can I get a key cut?
Where can I buy vitamins? Vitamin C, echinacea, etc. Pharmacists?
Anyone know where I can buy a book of raffle tickets? Given this country's love of discarding bits of paper everywhere, I am amazed the stationary shops don't stock them. I have even harassed parking attendants to ask where they get their parking slips but to no avail...
Is there a massage place at Zenith Yoga or in the same building? Anyone got a name or phone number?
Where can I buy Beer Lao Dark in Hanoi? I believe you can get the lager here but I'm looking for the stout... Cheers (no pun intended)
I know the olds ride the 50cc ones around town but I'm looking for a bit more power... Anyone know where I can buy/rent/import an electric-powered motorbike in Hanoi? I've heard the Chinese imports are not too reliable, are there any others on the market? Or in Saigon? One with a removable battery would be best...
Does anyone know if Khazaana is doing its annual Diwali buffet, or have I missed it??
Anyone know where I can find a hot water bottle in Hanoi? Not to keep my toes toasty warm but for my long-suffering back. Massages help but a more simple remedy would suffice. Thanks
Why are so many of the old colonial buildings yellow with green shutters? Was yellow the colour of Vietnam once upon a time? Was there a national decree that all buildings must be yellow? And is it too expensive for people to maintain them? Or just that there's no interest?
Answers (78)
Posted Monday August 25th, 2008.
This may be a stretch but I'd recommend Hoi An. In particular, B-Binh at 11 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Hoi An. My partner had a pair of black leather shoes for work made there in one day and they are very nice.
In response to the question: shoes for men-where are the good shoe stores(ones that have sizes to fit western feet!)or can I get shoes made?...
Posted Monday August 25th, 2008.
I agree that Vertical is a lovely dinner (and lunch) spot. Another fancypants restaurant with very good food is Halia, just opened up at Pacific Place building on cnr of Ly Thuong Kiet and Phan Boi Chau.
In response to the question: Hi all, Me and my husband are celebrating wedding anniversary in a few days. Can anyone recommend a fine dining restaurant for this occasion? Would...
Posted Friday September 5th, 2008.
Yes I also had several done there, $10 each for big A1 sizes, with nice wooden frames. Just wander into any of the art shops along there.
In response to the question: Can anyone recommend a good picture framer? I've seen heaps of art places around, but don't know what the workmanship is like. Not looking for anythi...
Posted Friday September 5th, 2008.
Dome has similar stuff though may be more pricey... http://www.dome.com.vn/
In response to the question: does anyone know if there is a web site for UMA furniture at CT6 My Dinh Hanoi?...
Posted Thursday September 11th, 2008.
You can count me in for one too! - M womens. They're hilarious... I also saw one with "Eat, sleep, gym" worn by a tiny Vietnamese woman. I don't it would look so fetching on me though ;)
Maybe some of the propaganda poster shops around Hoam Kiem would know...
In response to the question: Does anyone know where one may purchase one of these t-shirts bearing so priceless a slogan. I guess I could get one printed up but it wouldn't be ...
Posted Friday September 12th, 2008.
I went to Tran Tien Plaza, specifically Hang Hien optometrist. Prices start from 100,000/pair. Be sure to check the expiry dates and get a receipt in case you want to return them.
In response to the question: Does anyone know where I can buy contact lenses in Hanoi?...
Posted Monday September 29th, 2008.
I've had heaps of trouble at home lately with wireless connections and my mac and also with cable internet. My solution thus far has been to do nothing at all and wait for it to come back, which it usually does after a couple of days. Trying to change your computer settings etc which have been working perfectly until now or calling in someone to 'help' you will only send you round the bend. C'est la vie.
In response to the question: Today the internet seemed very very slow at my hotel (still looking to rent an apt) and when I went out to a cafe by the lake, the same thing happened...
Posted Monday September 29th, 2008.
I'm answering my own question in case there are any other deprived sods desperate for a melted cheese fix out there... the nice fella at Oasis Deli recommended a glazed claypot dish from the little shops around Dong Xuan market. Bon appetit!
In response to the question: Does anyone know where I could buy a cheese fondue pot? Just in preparation for winter......
Posted Friday October 3rd, 2008.
You can start by going to any of the events posted on this site, most esp the monthly meet up or the NH bowling nights. Depending on what country you're from, your embassy may have social events on a regular basis too that you could check out. There's also the Hanoi International Women's Club, or for a more low key meet-up, the Hanoi's professional women's assoc. Or you could get involved in the Hanoi Theatre Group - http://hanoi-hits.info/. Hanoi is full of friendly people - good luck!
In response to the question: I am new to Hanoi and am looking for any fun, social activities that can get me out of the house. It can be as formal as a tour or as informal as meet...
Posted Saturday October 4th, 2008.
After an exhausting search of what seemed like every dvd player in Hanoi, cheap and not, I finally found the Toshiba SD-690KA which plays everything from any region and was super cheap to boot. Media Mart on Hai Ba Trung. Short of that, I suggest picking up model dvd players and checking them yourself because most salespeople had no idea what I was talking about.
In response to the question: Which brand of dehumidifier would people suggest buying? I want something that works very well indeed. In another post, the name "Delongui" was droppe...
Posted Saturday October 4th, 2008.
Metro is a madhouse and the stuff isn't that great. It takes forever to get around, to get through the checkouts and nobody is at all friendly. Have heard of lots of people being mugged at Big C so wouldn't go there either. Much prefer to buy bits and pieces around Hanoi markets.
In response to the question: Do you need a card to shop at metro? Can you only shop there if you have a business? How does it work?...
Posted Tuesday October 7th, 2008.
Don't do it!! Suggest farewelling your VB days down at the local bia hoi.
In response to the question: Hi to all, Is there a place I can buy or order Victoria Bitter Beer (Australian)in Hanoi? Many thanks....
Posted Tuesday October 7th, 2008.
For something a bit indulgent, try the Daewoo hotel on Kim Ma - men's haircut for about $9. They throw in a foot/leg massage as well.
In response to the question: Hi, New here to Hanoi and looking for a stylist who specializes in fades, any suggestions?...
Posted Monday October 20th, 2008.
Or just go to the embassy and speak to the Australia Education International office on the ground floor. I have had them supervise an exam for me before.
In response to the question: Hi all, I'm studying with Open University (Australia) and have to sit an exam on the 1st of december. I desperately need someone to invigilate (sup...
Posted Monday October 20th, 2008.
Thanks. I finally got the battery from a watchmaker on Le Duan (Ly Thuong Kiet end).
In response to the question: Does anyone know where I can get a battery for my watch? A watch shop? Or are there some little fix-it shops around the old quarter? And where can...
Posted Sunday October 26th, 2008.
Look up 'contact lenses' in the search menu and you'll find this question's been answered before.
In response to the question: can i get ACUVUE contact lens here??? OR has anyone bought their contact lens in hanoi? if so, can anyone please give me some good tips ...
Posted Thursday October 30th, 2008.
They're made of sheepskin and they're warm and snug and lovely for winter. More of an indoor boot. Sorry, I don't know if you can get them here (I brought mine with me!)
In response to the question: Anyone ever seen UGG boots in any shops in Hanoi?? Probably a long shot......
Posted Monday November 3rd, 2008.
If you do a search under "volunteer" you'll find this question's been asked before with lots of helpful answers
In response to the question: I have been searching around for a while and am struggling to find short-term work with local NGOs. Does anyone have advice? It seems like most peop...
Posted Tuesday November 4th, 2008.
I went to a place calling themselves Toni & Guy on 1A Nha Chung St, right opposite the cathedral. I only had a wash and blowdry (because I get my hair cut at Vudoo's) and it was ok but nothing flash. Expensive, 200k and took about an hour. The main guy, who was cutting someone's hair, spoke good English.
They do a very good hairwash with a bit of a head massage but is hard to relax because of the noise factor outside and also there is a very pervasive smell of dried fish and cigarettes. Mmmm...
But if you're after T&G, they apparently do exist in Hanoi!
In response to the question: Can anyone recommend Toni and Guy Hairdressers???...
Posted Friday November 7th, 2008.
Old quarter was fine throughout last weekend. I waded through knee-deep water on Ly Thuong Kiet, Hanoi Towers, etc up to Green Mango Friday night and apart from a fallen tree (no damage except to the tree), it was plain sailing (no pun intended). And most shops, restaurants were open there all weekend too.
In response to the question: I am on Van Ho Ba, near Dai Co Viet and Ba Trieu, and am MUCH better off than the Le Duan side of Lenin Park. Wow, went over there today when it wasnt...
Posted Friday November 7th, 2008.
Try getting involved in things at the universities (English conversational classes, etc). There's heaps of single, clever young women there. Or if you know any Vietnamese people through your work or whatever, ask them to introduce you to their friends.
In response to the question: I am new to Vietnam and would like to know where I can meet single ladies in Hanoi and HCMC.I have heard about Beer Bars and have had a few Vietnamese...
Posted Wednesday November 12th, 2008.
I went to Lenin Park once and it was 2,000/entry so you were definitely had! I gave them a 5,000 note and they gave me my ticket and a stick of chewing gum. Hmmm... note to self: have correct change.
Clothing-wise, it really varies but at most tailors you can bargain a little. As a rough estimate, I'd pay $10/top (women's), $10-15 for a skirt and about $20-30 for a silk/linen dress (mostly I go to Pho Hang Trong). If you have your own material it's a lot cheaper. I haven't had shoes made/bought in Hanoi and I don't often buy ready-made clothes as they're generally more expensive.
If you feel someone's ripping you off, say 'khong duoc' (not ok) and that generally helps. Just laugh as though it's all a big joke but don't get angry or upset. Good luck!
In response to the question: I went to the park yesterday, at the entrance as I walked in the guy pointed to a little notebook in front of him that had 200,000 written on it. I so...
Posted Tuesday November 18th, 2008.
yeah you're basically in the same boat as most other foreigners here, so get an overpaid consultant job as a 'technical expert' or volunteer, pass on your skills and meet some real Vietnamese people.
In response to the question: My wife has 2 - 3 year work contract in Hanoi, starting end of 2009. Accommodation included. The issue: I need some interesting work or I'll go nut...
Posted Tuesday November 18th, 2008.
Yeah I'd ask some Vietnamese people for recommendations. Good for you that you're keen to learn the language... I did some lessons in Aus but didn't pick it up properly till I came here. So best way to learn is to study intensively in-country so you can practice with local people at the same time. Good luck!
In response to the question: Hey, I know this isn’t really the right place to ask this but i don’t know where else to find out. I'm going to be living in Hanoi for much of nex...
Posted Friday November 28th, 2008.
Vine
In response to the question: Whats your vote for the best pizza in Hanoi?...
Posted Friday November 28th, 2008.
Yes, the postal workers are not best known for their customer service. Packages, I've found, do arrive at their destinations sooner or later.
In response to the question: hey guys, i want to send some christmas gifts to the US. i have read about the post office and costs, but i am wondering if i can wrap the gifts o...
Posted Wednesday January 21st, 2009.
When people start driving properly in hanoi, it's time to up and move to the next developing country, no fun to be had anymore.
The traffic cops would make a mint if they booked people for traffic offences though. Wasted opportunity...
In response to the question: Really? Is there a law stating that people can't drive on the correct side of the road? Why is every intersection blocked to all hell every time someo...
Posted Wednesday January 21st, 2009.
If I could find a decent facial place with 'beauticians' who knew what they were doing and didn't give a running commentary on my every blackhead, my skin would probably be better off too. As it is, avoid Hue in the rainy season (6 months of the year), dampness (get a dehumidifier), use body scrubs, facial masks, disinfectants and lots of hot water to keep skin free of bacteria.
Good luck. Be glad you don't live in Manila.
In response to the question: Dear all, new hanoian is a great forum to share experiences, just want to thank all for their input! Anyway, now I would like to put...
Posted Thursday January 22nd, 2009.
Buck,
There's nothing subtle about pole dancing in Hanoi - either go to the happy ending bars or go to the bia hoi's around Ta Hien. Or for some 'clean' fun, go to Seventeen Saloon and play rock, paper, scissors with the cowgirls there. I aint kidding. It's a hoot.
In response to the question: Hello Hanoians, I hope this is not an inappropriate question to ask on a forum like this, but I thought Id give it a go and hopefully nobody gets o...
Posted Friday January 23rd, 2009.
Pacific Place has at least 10 ATMs in and around the building, mostly HSBC but think there's a couple of Vietcomb ones too. Corner of Ly Thuong Kiet and Phan Boi Chau
In response to the question: Does anyone know any maps or something you can use to locate ATMs? I'm particularly interested in finding Vietcombank ATMs. Thanks....
Posted Wednesday February 4th, 2009.
The NGO working group tends to be mainly for other NGOs and I'm not sure that individuals can join without an invitation. Vsccan is a company so again not sure about actually joining but both have lots of useful info about the cc scene in VN.
Practically all the donors and heaps of NGOs are into the 'hot' issue of cc in Vietnam right now. Which means you might be able to volunteer on some projects, etc.
You might also want to check out the Groups tab on this website, there are a few greenie ones there.
In response to the question: Is anyone interested in starting up a Climate Change Action group in Hanoi? Alternatively...does anyone know of NGO's or any individuals who are alr...
Posted Saturday February 14th, 2009.
I believe Bookworm can order books in (don't know how long it takes though) so maybe give them a call +84 4 37478778 or go by there, 4b Yen The, off Nguyen Thai Hoc.
In response to the question: I'm studying by distance education from Australia, doing international politics and security, I need to have some text books sent over. Anyone know if...
Posted Monday February 23rd, 2009.
Have heard a few stories like this - it is obviously a scam but if you have a police report, claim it on your travel insurance if possible... Good luck
In response to the question: Any advice greatly appreciated... My boyfriend's rental bike was stolen yesterday whilst viewing an apartment in Truc Bach. Who knows if it was a set...
Posted Thursday March 12th, 2009.
I've also seen herbs (such as thyme) at Oasis deli on Xuan Dieu. Didn't see if they had fenugreek though
In response to the question: Does anyone know where you can buy herbs, such as fenugreek, in Hanoi?...
Posted Thursday March 12th, 2009.
You could try Jaspas at Hanoi Towers. They usually show most tv sports
In response to the question: The Ashes is starting soon, anyone know a place to have a bevy and watch England get their arse kicked....
Posted Thursday March 12th, 2009.
If people are paying more other things, they're not likely to reduce the income their rental properties bring in. Greed. It's a global evil.
In response to the question: Hi everyone, a month or so ago there was some article in a paper saying that the rental prices in hanoi should go down as people start to get squeezed...
Posted Thursday March 12th, 2009.
You could also try Cao at 41 Le Van Huu or Miss Minh 0912219669 (but for her you may need your own material).
In response to the question: Hi all, I've ben trying to find a tailor in Hanoi that makes shirts, but they all seem to just do suits. Does anyone know of a good place (and not...
Posted Monday March 16th, 2009.
I definitely wouldn't attack a Vietnamese person with a stick or any other object - that is taking things to a new level of violence and you can't predict how the taxi driver or other Vietnamese onlookers may react. You could end up being bashed by a lot of people and the blame firmly pinned on you. Keep your cool and ignore them - that's how every other bike/car on the road operates.
In response to the question: I would like to make a forum about extremely dangerous taxi drivers in the city. I'm a trained cycler and I always transport myself with a citybike qu...
Posted Monday March 16th, 2009.
I live in an apt (so probably better insulated) but I have 2 dehumidifiers going 24/7 in opposite ends of the place and so far... mold free. They are definitely worth the initial outlay.
In response to the question: I have major issues with mould. I don't like it, it doesn't like me (I can tell); basically we don't co-exist happily. I have just moved into a h...
Posted Thursday March 19th, 2009.
Ciputra is great if you want to live in a bubble, with cookie cutter houses and perfectly manicured lawns, and send your kids to the bubble school within. That place gives me the heebie jeebies. And traffic along the dyke road every day is best avoided if you can. Go for Pacific Place, Elegant suites or Mayfair apts; all in or near Hoan Kiem. Suggest visiting them yourself and enquiring at the front desk rather than going through an agent - often the apt staff will get a finders fee and introduce you direct to the apt owner. Make sure you check for inclusions such as parking spot, internet etc.
In response to the question: Where to live? Have $2500 to spend....
Posted Thursday March 26th, 2009.
I reckon KFC is far worse than maccas, in terms of fat content and the poor battery caged chickens. Yuk. Even if the golden arches don't surface at HK lake, it will only be a matter of time before some rich Vietnamese intrepreneur opens a macdonalds goldmine in Hanoi.
And is there beef in Vietnam? I thought we were eating buffalo...
In response to the question: The rumour doing the rounds is that the old Bobby Chins restaurant at Hoan Kiem Lake is earmarked as a first McDonalds in the city! Does anyone hav...
Posted Tuesday March 31st, 2009.
Pop them in the post for friends back home who still pay $6/night for rentals
In response to the question: What do people do with their bought and seen DVDs ? guess there are many like us around. Do you exchange with other expats who have the same lot ? ......
Posted Thursday April 2nd, 2009.
There's a fuji shop next to Movenpick on Ly Thuong Kiet, charges 20k for 20 x 25 inch pic (larger than usual) and the prices go up and down from there. Normal photo paper and will use USB. Don't speak a word of English, in fact they don't really speak at all. Good luck.
In response to the question: Can anyone recommend a good place to get digital photos printed. Will they do it from a memory stick or a disc? ...
Posted Tuesday April 7th, 2009.
I've heard of this happening too. Perhaps she's seeing if you will offer more rent but I wouldn't bother. She sounds like a dodgy character, so you're better off starting afresh with someone more honest. Better luck at the next place.
In response to the question: We've recently moved from a flat in Ba Dinh to a house in Tay Ho, and it's beautiful, we love the house, the area, everything. It took us all month a...
Posted Monday April 13th, 2009.
Yes, anything can be recycled - wires, styrofoam, cardboard. I see the recycling women on my street wading through the food scraps looking for things to recycle everyday. I always separate the recycling from the food so they don't have to do this. It's not common in Vietnam but I think it should be!
In response to the question: I'm pretty well-versed in the whole "ding ding ding" = bring out your trash, but I wanted a little more info, especially on if I should separate my pa...
Posted Monday April 13th, 2009.
Does anyone know the times for Sunday mass at St Joseph's? Doesn't have to be in English...
In response to the question: Where does everyone go to church? It seems that all of the church information I have is wrong, and I have been showing up at random places every Sunda...
Posted Tuesday April 14th, 2009.
Yes it is. Can't remember the price but over 100k. Food ok but margharitas are crappy - sweetened postmix. You may be better off at Kitchen, even with their tiny portions.
In response to the question: Is Thursday night still all you can eat Mexican buffet at Jaspas? If so does anyone know what they're charging these days? Need a burrito fix......
Posted Wednesday April 15th, 2009.
Could try the little shops around Dong Xuan market (opposite the main motorbike parking area). They seem to have everything...
In response to the question: Looking for a stone pestle and mortar ... any idea? Have tried most shops and still using a wooden one for the last 3 years ... ...
Posted Wednesday April 15th, 2009.
I haven't had any problems with xe om but I always negotiate the fare beforehand and make sure I have the right change. I have my own motorbike but if I use a xe om, I'll take one of the regular ones near my house - they know me and don't rip me off.
I haven't seen any traffic cops on the roads at night so assume they're down at the local bia hoi...
In response to the question: I'm a reporter for an English newspaper and at the moment, I'm writing an article about xe om in Hanoi. So I want to ask you some questions about your...
Posted Wednesday April 15th, 2009.
I suggest a raffle ticket book business. Make a fortune...
In response to the question: Any suggestions for doing business in Vietnam ? What business should start at mid level investment ? If any local or foreigners wana be partners in op...
Posted Thursday April 16th, 2009.
See also http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/en/aska/answers/qid/1070
In response to the question: I think everyone who rides a bike around town can attest to the damaging dust and pollution that inevitably ends up in your eyes. What I am looking fo...
Posted Friday April 17th, 2009.
Hire one of those swans on Tay Ho and paddle around the lake. That should take at least several days. Then write a book about your travels.
In response to the question: Hey guys. I teach during the evening and am looking for something to do during my long days. Something like swimming and relaxing by a pool, going to ...
Posted Friday April 17th, 2009.
I would love to find a lunch time aerobics class that didn't cost the earth. Maybe I should just run back and forth across Nghi Tam
In response to the question: Please can anyone recommend a good personal trainer - for general fitness?...
Posted Saturday April 18th, 2009.
Yes Dams, share away. I have never heard of tieng Viet lessons that cheap.
Some of the universities offer Vietnamese classes but you need to make a commitment of 3 x 3 hour classes per week plus homework.
Or you could try a language exchange with a Vietnamese person. You help them with their English, they help you with your Vietnamese.
In response to the question: I will be in here for a year or so and would like to learn a bit of vietnamese. I was wondering what was the best way to do this and would like your i...
Posted Monday April 27th, 2009.
Did anyone find just the foam beans?
In response to the question: I know the beanbag question has been asked before, answered, then answered again with there are no beanbags to be found... but has anyone found a sour...
Posted Monday April 27th, 2009.
I saw one at the Ministry of Agriculture (which backs onto the Botannical Gardens) and did a double take. So nice to see an animal in this country that's alive and free.
In response to the question: Another da question (I should copyright these, huh?): So, this morning as I eat my mien ga at the local stand, a girl starts screaming on my street...
Posted Wednesday April 29th, 2009.
Yeah, the Warehouse has 3 models and will import from Malaysia and deliver to your house. Takes a couple of weeks. See http://www.liebherr.com/hgk/en/products_hgk.asp?menuID=108138!284281-0
In response to the question: Hey everybody, anybody a clue where to find in Hanoi a wine fridge? I tried Melinh Plaza, the Vincom Tower, Nguyen Kim (at Trang Thi Street), Medi...
Posted Tuesday May 5th, 2009.
L's Place on Phan Boi Chau (opposite Pacific Place) stocks a good range of Lindt chocolate. They also have other imported chocolates but not sure of the brands.
In response to the question: Hello, Does anybody know a supplier of specialty chocolate? I'm looking for a really vast and special range. I've been to all the places I can think...
Posted Tuesday May 5th, 2009.
I think the usual tips like take her out shortly after she's eaten; stand with her under a tree or wherever you want her to poop; just be patient with her and keep taking her to the same place to poop and waiting there till she does it.
Hard work but you have to show her who's boss!
In response to the question: Hi, I have a one-year old Cocker Spaniel. Her name is Cockie and she's very sweet. Unfortunately, despite all the work we did with her, she stil...
Posted Tuesday May 5th, 2009.
Gosh it's fun living in a country with no animal welfare laws. Why not take them to the snake farm for dessert, followed by a quick shot of fresh bear bile? Yum.
Sorry but I can't believe this stuff still happens in the 21st century.
In response to the question: I have some colleagues arriving in 3 weeks time who are keen to try the local dog meat. I am a bit sensitive to this and will not join them but would ...
Posted Wednesday May 6th, 2009.
I wouldn't either. Most likely they will charge you a hefty fee AND make you buy a new visa. And perhaps blacklist you from ever returning.
Suggest you contact your embassy and find out what's what.
In response to the question: I have a 6 month multiple entry tourist visa for Vietnam that expires on June 2. When booking my out-going flight online to Bangkok, I made the mista...
Posted Friday May 8th, 2009.
Menus will be really helpful!
In response to the question: What the hell is going on? I just received an email from [The New Hanoian]. When I clicked the link, a pop-up window asked me to enter ID and Pa...
Posted Thursday June 4th, 2009.
The best stereo shop on Hai Ba Trung is called High-End Audio at 11B (near the American club). They might be able to point you in the direction of second hand gear but take a Vietnamese friend with you as they don't speak much English.
In response to the question: I need an amplifier to drive 5.1 theater speakers I brought from the States. I have a good amp back in the U.S. but didn't want to risk it. Hai Ba T...
Posted Thursday June 4th, 2009.
I had acupuncture years ago and it didn't cure anything besides my fear of needles. Good luck to you.
In response to the question: Does anyone know anything about acupuncture for weight loss? I heard it's very effective. ...
Posted Thursday June 4th, 2009.
Ask Bookworm if they can order it in for you.
In response to the question: Shot in the dark here - anyone have a copy of (or seen it for sale) Beyond the bronze pillars: envoy poetry and the Sino-Vietnamese relationship by Li...
Posted Saturday June 20th, 2009.
Depends on your price range. Oasis Deli on Xuan Dieu sells one model and he can point you in the direction of an Italian guy (also in Tay Ho) who's started a business here recently.
Otherwise I'd suggest getting one from Bangkok or having one sent here. Nespresso does a good line for home use. Depends how much you like your coffee...
In response to the question: I would like to buy an espresso machine-new or second hand! Can anyone help me find one? Thanks ...
Posted Saturday June 20th, 2009.
Thank you kindly :)
In response to the question: Is there a massage place at Zenith Yoga or in the same building? Anyone got a name or phone number? ...
Posted Thursday July 2nd, 2009.
I would certainly go to a quality butcher cause I miss my steak too. Yeah you can buy imported steak here but it is eeee-xpensive. Home made pies, sausage rolls and Irish stew wouldn't go astray either...
In response to the question: An Irish butcher friend is seriously thinking of setting up an Butchers here in Hanoi selling home made sausages, burgers, pork chops and of course me...
Posted Monday July 6th, 2009.
Cheers guys, maybe I will wait until a) the technology is more advanced or b) I'm not driving in Hanoi anymore. Or maybe I should just go with the other zero emissions option and get a bicycle.
In response to the question: I know the olds ride the 50cc ones around town but I'm looking for a bit more power... Anyone know where I can buy/rent/import an electric-powered mot...
Posted Wednesday July 8th, 2009.
Yes Hanoi is mad and that's one of the reasons we all love it. And the government is hell bent on development, even at the cost of its own culture. That is evidenced by the rotting of its gorgeous architecture and tearing down of the old Hang Da and 1912 markets, and the ugly 'modern' edifices mushrooming all over the city. The sad part is that in 10-15 years the Hanoi we know will be largely unrecognisable and the authorities will be trying to recreate the past, like Bangkok these days. Good luck to you.
Of course developing countries want to be developed and that is a fact of life. They want their loud motorbikes and oversized cars and modern houses. And I don't think anyone can save someone else's culture if they themselves don't want to save it.
So what to do? Try to set a good example. And support the Vietnamese who do wish to perserve and care for their city.
In response to the question: I was recently in HCM and was pleasantly surprised at the clean streets, clean shops, well parked bikes in lines and plenty of space to walk on the pa...
Posted Friday August 28th, 2009.
Give Andrew at VIP Bikes a call and he might be able to point you in the right direction - 0914931390
In response to the question: Hi, does anyone know a good place for motorbike parts? Specifically I need a fuel filler cap for a Daelim VS 125, which is the cruiser type bike as...
Posted Friday August 28th, 2009.
See http://www.sjvietnam.org/ and scroll down to “Bo De Pagoda”. Alternatively, give them to your cleaning lady, or leave them outside your house (on a non-rainy day) and they will disappear into the neighbourhood.
In response to the question: I have google-do and only found that they have an SA office in Hanoi, dealing with projects for people in rural areas. My big issue lies in 2 big boxe...
Posted Friday October 9th, 2009.
I have heard that it is always the bigger vehicle that is at fault and should have to compensate the smaller vehicle (ie you), regardless of who was doing the dodgy driving.
But as a foreigner the police are not likely to side with you, especially if they weren't there to witness it. Nor is it worth the trouble, court costs or your sanity to take it any further. So if your bike gets messed up but you're ok, shout and scream at the car and demand they pay you for the damage. Likely, they'll drive to a side street (away from crowds) and give you a few hundred thousand. As it's often the viet driver of some 4WD owned by a rich Viet or a foreigner, they don't want trouble either. And as most local people have no faith in the police either, and generally shy away from confrontation, this is likely the simplest solution.
If however, things are looking dicey (for you), wave your fist, shout abuses and hit the gas, taking the moral high ground and avoiding being pummelled by a drunken driver and his mates.
In response to the question: Recently, when I was riding my motorbike, I was forced to swerve sharply to avoid a car that was executing a U-turn from the outer lane of the road an...
Posted Thursday October 22nd, 2009.
Try the cinemateque, it's sometimes used for private events
In response to the question: Does anyone know where there is a stage I can rent for a private concert?...
Posted Monday December 14th, 2009.
Yes, we give token gifts at Xmas (chocolates etc or souvenirs from home if you are travelling) and save the proper gifts (money, hamper, clothes, etc) for Tet, as that is their special time of year.
In response to the question: Any suggestions for appropriate Christmas gifts for our Vietnamese staff i.e. household and office staff? This is our first Xmas so I'm not sure if it...
Posted Saturday January 23rd, 2010.
Turtles will eat most things but they're not vegetarians and generally prefer eat other small fish, tadpoles or bits of meat. I used to feed mine mince but they'd probably survive in your garden regardless on bugs and worms.
If you do ever decide to get rid of it, aim for Uncle Ho's garden rather than HK lake.
In response to the question: My landlord gifted us with a small turtle for our pond. When I asked her what do we feed it, she said rice. Now... that might be right but what else d...
Posted Thursday February 11th, 2010.
The airport is pretty tiny but as I recall you can exchange money. Depends also on what time you arrive, if it's at night, the exchange place will be closed. There is one ATM machine where you can withdraw kip, though best have cash of some sort on hand in case it is out of order. Dollars are usable, small denominations are best, and they'll give you change in kip.
In response to the question: traveling to luang prabang soon. first time. ive only got VND right now and am wondering if this will be a problem to have switched to Kip at the airp...
Posted Thursday February 11th, 2010.
All the hotels will be open (obviously) as will their restaurants.
While heaps of people leave town, for many Hanoi is their hometown so it is not completely devoid of life.
In response to the question: I recently moved to Hanoi from Korea, so pardon my ignorance. This is my first Tet in Vietnam (Hanoi). Will *some* restaurants be open? Just a few?...