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Questions (8)
Anyone know of a photography group in Hanoi?
Or anyone interested in starting one?
Does anyone want to start a New Hanoian Pool League?
Any kind of pool - Eight or Nine Ball, occasional meetings or regular, bit of a laugh and a beer too, anyone interested?
Or does anyone know of something similar that already exists?
Does anyone know where you I can get hold of tickets for the Asia Cup (Football) matches being played here?
I've seen a couple of banners advertising the upcoming Vietnam v Bahrain match with prices ranging up to VND100,000 - anyone know where they can be bought (if not sold out)?
I'm looking to buy a scanner from scanning film, and know the models I'm after. Anyone know a good place to get one for a reasonable price?
Most of the online searching I've done seems to show that prices here are almost 3 times that of the same model in the US.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Anyone know a good place to buy interior wall paint?
Anyone know a good place where one can get paper/card laminated?
We're off to Hue this coming weekend for a quick break. Does anyone have good food recommendations? I've been there before but it was 3 years ago and would rather get personal recommendations than those in the (highly unreliable) guide books.
High end to street fodder - anyone had good food experiences there recently?
Does anyone have a good recommendation for a buffet lunch / dinner at one of the hotels in Hanoi?
The hotel websites themselves have little to no information on these kind of things, especially the price. I know there are reviews of the various options on the pages for some of the hotels, but most are old and I wondered if anyone has up to date info.
Any recommendations would be gratefully appreciated, ta.
Answers (263)
Posted Saturday June 9th, 2007.
Cool! Thanks grubby I'll do that.
In response to the question: Anyone know of a photography group in Hanoi? Or anyone interested in starting one?...
Posted Thursday June 14th, 2007.
Thanks for those leads - I'll chase them up!
In response to the question: Anyone know of a photography group in Hanoi? Or anyone interested in starting one?...
Posted Saturday June 16th, 2007.
I was pretty sure that Air France was a good option so I had a look for you:
Leaving 20th and returning 28th would cost you 1,133.71 USD including taxes, not cheap but better than VN Airlines.
You could always look into flying Air Asia to Bangkok and getting a cheaper flight from there...
In response to the question: Hello again Hanoians! I just found out that due to a personal emergency I am going to have to fly back home to Paris for a week or so. Wondering i...
Posted Sunday June 17th, 2007.
Only played at GC and Finnegan's, and Finnegan's table is pretty poor. I suppose it would be better to do something in a proper bar, but the table situation would be easier at a pool hall (you wouldn't have other people wanting to use the table) and the table quality would be better too (generally).
I suppose it would depend on a bar being into the idea enough to section off a pool table for the evening. If there were a few takers we could start off in a pool hall until a regular thing developed... Just an idea.
In response to the question: Does anyone want to start a New Hanoian Pool League? Any kind of pool - Eight or Nine Ball, occasional meetings or regular, bit of a laugh and a b...
Posted Sunday June 24th, 2007.
It's not really IKEA style, but there are six or seven bamboo/rattan furniture stores on the corner of Quang Trung and Tran Nhan Trong, mostly on the Quang Trung side facing Ho Thien Quang (Thien Quang lake).
There all have the same kind of things, shelves, chairs, cabinets, the odd sofa. All are bamboo/rattan constructions and are reasonably sturdy. As for price, it's pretty cheap - I got a deep, four shelf unit to use as a shoe rack for about VND140,000 and also got a storage unit for about VND340,000.
In response to the question: Hi I want to buy good quality but cheap furniture like rattan, bamboo, ikea products. Can anyone give me some addresses? I'm new here so any help...
Posted Monday June 25th, 2007.
Sorry - forgot the district - it's Hai Ba Trung District.
In response to the question: Hi I want to buy good quality but cheap furniture like rattan, bamboo, ikea products. Can anyone give me some addresses? I'm new here so any help...
Posted Thursday June 28th, 2007.
Are the prices for visas "so sky-high"?
Last time I got renewal it was $87 for a six month multiple entry visa. I think the first one is more expensive than a renewal - $95 if memory serves me correctly. This was in HCMC though...
But, like grubby said, the price varies from agent to agent. The visa costs $50, and the stamp $10 according to the details in the passport, the additional costs will be what is added for 'additional costs' and the agent's cut.
In response to the question: Is it possible to "upgrade" the tourist visa to business visa if I have a visa approval? Or do I need to go out of the country and get a new visa at s...
Posted Thursday June 28th, 2007.
Hmm . Not sure about the Vietnam v Bahrain thing. The group playing here are Vietnam, Japan, UAE, and Qatar.
Also subsequently found out ticketing details...
http://www.the-afc.com/english/asianCupTicketing/default.asp?action=ticketOutlets
In response to the question: Does anyone know where you I can get hold of tickets for the Asia Cup (Football) matches being played here? I've seen a couple of banners advertis...
Posted Thursday June 28th, 2007.
and here:
http://www.aleale.com.vn/en/
for others interested.
In response to the question: Does anyone know where you I can get hold of tickets for the Asia Cup (Football) matches being played here? I've seen a couple of banners advertis...
Posted Tuesday July 10th, 2007.
From what I've seen, there are plenty of original Nikon film SLRs (second hand) and I've seen some original (real) Nikon DSLRs around in the more upmarket shopping malls - you could try them.
The bad news is that they all seems rather expensive to me (better deals to be had almost everywhere else in SE Asia - Singapore, Bangkok etc and definitely cheaper on ebay!). Second hand prices are kind of expensive compared to elsewhere (even the UK), in my experience.
In response to the question: Hi, I see a lot of old Vespas from the 60s driving around town, but they never seem to be sold somewhere. Does anyone know, where to buy them? I...
Posted Monday August 27th, 2007.
Speaking of which, are any newhanoian rugby fans up for meeting and watching Enlgand vs USA on Sat 8th Sep?
I realise it's a bit of a formality for England but...
In response to the question: Hi, can anyone recommend the best place to view the Rugby World Cup in Hanoi?...
Posted Thursday September 6th, 2007.
It's not a middle eastern restaurant, but the cafe at Cinematheque does a good hummos plate if you're feeling the need for it. Not cheap though (more than 50k), but it does come with good hot pita, at least the last time I had it it did.
In response to the question: Where can I find a middle East cuisine? Like hummos, and kafta and falafel with pita bread! I see that dragonfly has sheesha, but does it also carry t...
Posted Sunday January 6th, 2008.
Nguyen Cau on Ba Trieu used to develop my BW film (both 35mm and 120 roll film), but the branch I used to use (there were 2) closed down. I went to the other branch, which is a few doors down from Bobby Chin's on the same street, but they either couldn't offer the service any more or they couldn't be bothered to deal with a complicated request.
When I lived in HCM City, the lab I used told me that BW was expensive to develop because they had to order the chemicals from Singapore.
I've got a few BW rolls to be done myself so I'll let you know if I find one (also searching for a place that can develop slide too).
In response to the question: here is a toughy... I am looking for a place to develope black and white film, or a darkroom that i might use. anyone got any ideas??!!...
Posted Tuesday January 15th, 2008.
Regarding my last answer about Nguyen Cau - just got some Black and White rolls back from them: not a great service.
Negatives scratched, and scans were really noisy - no good at all. (Of course they insisted it was all fine...)
Basically I reckon developing is OK, but not getting scans. Printing seems to be on colour paper anyway so don't think it's worth it. I'm going to invest in a negative scanner and do it myself I think.
In response to the question: here is a toughy... I am looking for a place to develope black and white film, or a darkroom that i might use. anyone got any ideas??!!...
Posted Thursday January 17th, 2008.
I've just recently bought a new one, and went for a cheap basic Nokia 1200 - no colour screen, camera, or anything like that (Not Tri Band either).
It was 580,000 new, from a shop on Kim Ma (don't have address to hand but it's opposite the big carpark at Van Phuc).
Yesterday I dropped it 3 floors straight down a stair well and it's still in perfect working order...
In response to the question: I've had 2 cell phones stolen in Vietnam (within a week!) and I wonder what is the cheapest place to get a new one. . . (should I decide to!) tell me ...
Posted Friday January 18th, 2008.
Thanks for the answer Tamvong, I'll check it out. (It's a flatbed, but designed to handle film)
In response to the question: I'm looking to buy a scanner from scanning film, and know the models I'm after. Anyone know a good place to get one for a reasonable price? Most of...
Posted Thursday February 14th, 2008.
Found some. If anyone else needs some, paint and other supplies (rollers, brushes, masking tape etc) can be found on Nguyen Khuyen St where it meets Van Mieu.
In response to the question: Anyone know a good place to buy interior wall paint? ...
Posted Saturday April 26th, 2008.
Yelling really loudly seems to do the trick, I find. Either that or banging the phone on a table or something solid/loud. That also seems to shock some sense into people who can't work it our for themselves.
In response to the question: The same people that I dont know are calling me a few times a week from a 06---- number. Its really fun cause they say "hello" in English and then div...
Posted Tuesday June 3rd, 2008.
They are for sale in the cushion/mat shops on Ngo Van So (same road as Bookworm). Just round the corner from Western Canned Foods - the first shop on the right has them.
They cost about VND 150,000.
In response to the question: in Hanoi where to buy Yoga mats........ anybody can give ma address...
Posted Tuesday June 3rd, 2008.
The simple answer is that your school should help you to do this.
However, as Steve says, you will need:
- A Degree certificate
- Your Teaching certificate
- A Criminal Record Check (UK)
- A Vietnamese Criminal Record Check
I'm in the process now, and this is what I know is needed now. Check with your school though, as things change from time to time.
The UK criminal record check can be applied for by post, but you must attach a notarised copy of your passport to your application. The UK consulate will do this (fee about 800,000VND). You have to give your "current" UK address on the form - I gave my parents address as this is where the check is sent. It takes up to 40 days and costs GBP10 (payable in person or by postal order/cheque).
More info and form here: http://www.crb.gov.uk/Default.aspx?page=1871
The degree certificate must be original.
Both the degree cert and criminal check must be notarised in the UK (the consulate here is not sufficient), and then legalised at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.
Standard notarisation stating "I certify that this is a true copy of..." will be rejected by the Vietnamese Govt because someone has taken exception to the word "copy". Check with your school for the wording they suggest.
At the moment the teaching certificate (TEFL/CELTA etc) doesn't have to be notarised. (Again - check at time of application)
The Vietnamese Police check involves having your landlord get a form stamped with your details at the local police station (you must be properly registered first) and then an application submitted to the Hanoi Police. I have heard that this step isn't necessary if you have been here less than 6 months - I'd check though.
Unfortunately it's not easy, and not cheap either, but you do get some leeway. The Visa people will eventually decide not to extend your visa if you can't prove you are working towards the Work Permit, but you should have at least 3-6 months grace.
I'm in the process now, and I've been in Vietnam a while longer than that...
In response to the question: I am currently trying to find work teaching English in Hanoi. I have a couple of interviews arranged already, but I'm a little worried about the work ...
Posted Wednesday June 4th, 2008.
No worries Nick.
It is true that lots of teachers work here without a permit. I know of a few who have even tried to get their work permit but finished their contract before all the red tape was dealt with.
The short answer is it's definitely possible to work without a WP, but you are taking a risk. It also depends on the school and how they approach getting your visas for you. Some schools "handle" the immigration department more "favourably" than others and therefore don't have as many issues.
From time to time there are clampdowns on work permit. There is a fine for working without a work permit (not sure how much - I've heard of figures ranging up to 5mil, none actually confirmed).
The biggest danger is that immigration will deny you a new visa if you don't have any proof that you are working towards you work permit. Again, some schools seem to find a way around this...
Best thing to do if you don't want to go the full legitimate route is check with the school and see what they say.
Good luck!
In response to the question: I am currently trying to find work teaching English in Hanoi. I have a couple of interviews arranged already, but I'm a little worried about the work ...
Posted Friday June 6th, 2008.
Yep, I think you'll find that Khumbu's right. Vietcombank will not allow you to withdraw US Dollars from a VND account any longer (as of about ten days ago, I'm told). I assume you still can if you have a USD account though.
I assume it'll be the same deal with the other banks.
The official rate for the Dong can't move against the dollar by more than a certain amount (2% I think) from it's pegged rate. That accounts for the difference - the black market rate reflects the real value (as I understand it).
Some info here: http://blogs.wsj.com/marketbeat/2008/05/28/hints-of-a-crisis-in-vietnam/
In response to the question: So there is currently a gap between the black market buy/sell rate and the bank buy/sell rate for USD and Dong. I'm just curious, what's to stop me f...
Posted Monday June 9th, 2008.
The reliable place I normally go to is on Hang Bac St, next to Victory DVD shop. The rate was around 18600 this weekend, I think.
In response to the question: Related to maliusmaximus' recent post, yet different- where should I currently go to get the best rate on converting VND into US$? I just closed dow...
Posted Monday June 9th, 2008.
I think that depends, Cindy. What size of house, what condition the house is in, heating/air con, furniture etc all have a bearing on the price.
I'm in a three bedroom in Ba Dinh (small roof terrace/aircon in 2 bedrooms/in need of refurbishment) and it's $450pm.
It'll also depend where in the district.
In response to the question: Hi, how much would the average price for a Vietnamese-style house or apartment in Ba Dinh be? Would $700 a month be a reasonable budget?...
Posted Tuesday June 10th, 2008.
Yeah - I'd got that impression too. I was initially refused at the gold shop, but they agreed to do it because it was a small amount. They seemed to be checking to see who was watching though...
In response to the question: Related to maliusmaximus' recent post, yet different- where should I currently go to get the best rate on converting VND into US$? I just closed dow...
Posted Wednesday June 11th, 2008.
The government devalued the currency today, not by much though. The official rate is now 16,461.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB121309913423660417.html?mod=googlenews_wsj
I've also heard that Vietcombank is refusing to transfer $US abroad, converting to $CND for bank transfers.
In response to the question: Related to maliusmaximus' recent post, yet different- where should I currently go to get the best rate on converting VND into US$? I just closed dow...
Posted Wednesday June 25th, 2008.
Unfortunately, the Guoman Gym is closing next week for renovations. They're not sure how long for either, some people seem to think 3 months, some seem to think a month.
Most of the hotels have gyms, but they are pricy ($100+ per month, some closer to $200+), the facilities are not really what you'd expect from the cost.
There are cheaper gyms around, if you only want weights, there are some small Vietnamese style gyms around town, and some sports clubs have little gyms attached too.
In response to the question: Im into my weight lifting are there any gyms in Hanoi to cater for me...
Posted Thursday June 26th, 2008.
I just checked out the Horison, the gym's pretty small but the equipment looks ok. There's about 8/10 weights machines, 1 rower, 1 bike, 2 treadmills, and 2 climber machines.
The pool is not really designed for laps, it's oval shaped and not very big, but would be ok if you went at a quiet time.
The price was $118++ (so about $135 in total) per month, or there was also a 3 month deal which worked out to about $350 (inc tax/service).
I don't know about the Sharaton, bu I've heared that it is considerably more expensive.
In response to the question: Hi guys, Im looking for a good gym which has enough equipments that do not actually fall off during your work out :(! Im considering Horison and Sh...
Posted Wednesday July 2nd, 2008.
They're frozen, but the Daewoo deli has sirloin and rather tasty rib-eye steaks. I assume it's imported by the price and taste/quality. The rib-eye barbecues well in my experience.
They're priced per 100g. Not can't remember the exact price: not cheap, but pretty reasonable.
In response to the question: Hi all, does anyone know where I can buy some nice steaks to cook at a reasonable price? So far I've checked out Au Delice, which sells some import...
Posted Wednesday July 2nd, 2008.
The best steak I've had in Hanoi, by far, was at Le Petit Bruxelles.
They know their meat and treat it well - definitely try it.
In response to the question: Where might a fella go to eat the best steak in the city? ...
Posted Thursday July 3rd, 2008.
Aaron, you're correct in saying you can't transfer VND overseas. It has to be converted into another currency. Recently I've heard of people transferring $CDN and GBP to the USA because Vietcombank won't allow transfers in $US either though...
You can't wire transfer VND either. Western Union transfers can only be made with $US, and I assume that's the same with Moneygram.
In response to the question: Hello. I was wondering how people are dealing with the current dollar crisis here in Viet Nam. My situation is that I basically have student loans bac...
Posted Sunday July 6th, 2008.
Why would you be entitled to a rebate?
I wouldn't have thought that you could claim it back.
In response to the question: Tax rebate?? I will finish my year contract soon and would like to know how to go about getting a tax refund for the tax I paid here in Vietnam? ...
Posted Wednesday July 23rd, 2008.
Check this place out :
http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/venue/show/1794/Uma-The-Manor
We're happy with the sofa we bought there. It was 4.8 million VND - about $300 (earlier this year).
In response to the question: Does anyone know of any factories around here where you can buy a sofa for a nice price? Couches seem to be either cheapish but very ugly or nice but ...
Posted Friday July 25th, 2008.
It might be worth a try to go to the Vietnam Football Federation office, on Ly Van Phuc St , off Nguyen Thai Hoc. It's in a office building on the right about 2 mins walk from the Nguyen Thai Hoc end.
I bought tickets for the Asian Cup last year there when everyone was saying that they were sold out.
In response to the question: I understand that tickets for the Vietnam vs Brazil friendly football match go on sale tomorrow (Firday) morning. Could anybody point me in the r...
Posted Sunday August 3rd, 2008.
I've bought a few things from that shop and in my experience the goods are "genuine" but are seconds quality, i.e. have defects that prevent the factory selling them to the clothing company (and shouldn't be sold on in country either). I've never had major problems with anything I've bought there, but a close look will reveal a defect of some kind, usually pretty small.
On the other hand, there's no real way of knowing unless you know someone who really knows their stuff regarding the specific brand.
In response to the question: I've seen posts re North Face clothing at Tolia Shop, Hanoi Towers and visited there today. North Face Gore-tex jackets for 950000VND is very cheap an...
Posted Wednesday August 6th, 2008.
The gold shop right next to Victory CD/DVD shop on Hang Bac has always been good to me in the past. He always seems to have Dollars and Bhat, maybe other currencies too.
In response to the question: I need a couple thousand US dollars for a trip I am making outside of Vietnam in a less then a week. The gold shop on the corner of Hoan Kiem will se...
Posted Wednesday August 6th, 2008.
It depends what you consider cheap, but:
Hang's Happy Mart on Linh Lang St, opposite Linh Lang Market. Linh Lang St is off Dao Tan, about halfway down. The Market is also good for quality fresh veg, but the fruit tends to be overpriced.
Dan's Shop at Van Phuc and also on Linh Lang St (towards the Dao Tan end).
They're a couple of small one's in the little alleyways off Dao Tan, near the Danly Hotel, but I can't be any more specific than that I'm afraid.
In response to the question: Does anyone know of any cheap grocery stores on Kim Ma/in Ba Dinh? I apologize if you've seen this question before, I thought I posted it earlier, but...
Posted Saturday August 9th, 2008.
The Lowepro ones are very good, I've got one of the "Slingshot" range - check them out here:
http://products.lowepro.com/catalog/Sling-bags,4.htm
They come with a raincover that folds into the bottom of the bag.
I've seen a few in one of the bag shops at the top of Hoan Kiem Lake, they looked genuine (with the proper labels etc) but I'm not sure.
I have seen genuine ones in a small camera store on Trang Thi St. I don't know the address but it's on the corner opposite the hospital, on the north side of the road.
The Crumpler ones you can buy here (fakes) are pretty good too (I have one and it hasn't let me down), but they don't have raincovers.
In response to the question: Does anyone know where to buy a reliable camera bag for DSLR at a reasonable price? Padding doesn't matter since I have a nice one. But it should be...
Posted Saturday August 9th, 2008.
Normal charcoal you can buy in most local markets for about 5000VND a kilo bag. The problem with that is that it can be pretty damp and a pain in the arse to light.
Last time I bbq'd, we ended up buying imported briquettes from Western Canned Foods. They were the fuel soaked ones, so they light very easily. They weren't cheap, but there's enough in the bag to do a few barbecues.
In response to the question: Does anyone know where you can buy charcoal for a barbeque?...
Posted Saturday August 9th, 2008.
No problem kinhvanhoa.
Check out TNH photography club too -
http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/group/show/25/Hanoi-Photography-
In response to the question: Does anyone know where to buy a reliable camera bag for DSLR at a reasonable price? Padding doesn't matter since I have a nice one. But it should be...
Posted Monday August 25th, 2008.
I suspect that none of these labs actually make their prints from film. I think they scan and print digitally. The poor quality scanned negatives I've got are of about the same quality (fuzzy and usually oversaturated) as the prints I've got.
angelonbroomstick is right though, you need to ask the lab not to mess about with your photos, or they will decide what your photo should look like.
In response to the question: Hi! I have yet to find a decent place in Hanoi that develops photos from film. Based on friends recommendations, I have now tried several different p...
Posted Tuesday August 26th, 2008.
Arctitus - does the place on Hang Bac develop BW film as well as making prints?
Any idea if they develop Slide film?
In response to the question: Hi! I have yet to find a decent place in Hanoi that develops photos from film. Based on friends recommendations, I have now tried several different p...
Posted Tuesday August 26th, 2008.
Cheers, Arctitis. I'll give them a try.
In response to the question: Hi! I have yet to find a decent place in Hanoi that develops photos from film. Based on friends recommendations, I have now tried several different p...
Posted Sunday September 7th, 2008.
I'd be interested to know exactly what the differences are. I've got a student who swears that he will only eat Pho that says it is Nam Dinh style, but he's from Nam Dinh. Next time I see him I'll ask what the difference is.
In response to the question: Can someone tell a bit about the differences in styles of pho by province? No doubt most of us are familiar with regional differences in styles of...
Posted Saturday September 13th, 2008.
Great idea!
I'd love one of those.
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 Monday September 15th, 2008.
The one on Hang Trong is this one:
http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/en/venue/show/1718/A-Dong-Photo-Co
and I second bethanybauman's suggestion that you try there.
The last time I bought anything like that it was in Bangkok, mainly because the selection is better, but also because photo gear is cheaper in Thailand than it is here.
I hear there's a shop on Tran Hung Dao St that deals in photographic supplies (paper, chemicals, assorted developing accessories) so that might be a place to try too.
In response to the question: Hey all, Does anyone know of a good, professional camera store that sells various equipment like reflectors, lightstands, adapters, diffusers, gaff...
Posted Tuesday September 16th, 2008.
TV5 Monde seems to come as standard on all the cable packages I've ever had in Vietnam, but that's the only French language channel I've come across.
In response to the question: can anyone tell me if there is a possibility to have international tv channels thru satellite or cable, i'm looking for the french channels...
Posted Wednesday October 1st, 2008.
I have one and it keeps the humidity at around 40%. For camera equipment, especially lenses you want to get the humidity to this level (especially as the weather becomes cooler).
Did it come with a manual/instructions? Where did you buy it? - I'd suggest taking it back to see if they can do check it or recalibrate the dehumidifier.
In response to the question: Does anyone use an auto drybox for electronic (camera) equipment? I recently bought a Eureka model and it won't dehumidify below 60%... wondering if t...
Posted Tuesday October 7th, 2008.
I'm not sure if they do, but the standard landline in Vietnam does, so if you have one in your house, or a friends house you could receive an international call that way.
In response to the question: Hello, Do the telephones in post offices accept incoming calls? That is, can I receive a call from China from one? Any suggestions on how to go abo...
Posted Wednesday October 8th, 2008.
Or, for the second leg, you can fly with Bangkok Air, who are much better at customer service, have a lounge for economy passengers to wait in, and can arrange all sorts of things (transfers, accommodation, etc) at BK airport. They're half the price if you book in Thailand than if you book here though.
In response to the question: Hi, Can someone tell me what is the easiest flight to Koh Samui. Cam on...
Posted Friday October 31st, 2008.
I've bought cochineal in Western Canned Foods before.
In response to the question: Where can i buy red food colouring? or fake blood? whichever is more common here in Hanoi...
Posted Thursday November 20th, 2008.
Nothing at all is stupid about that, Granteralus.
I'm still thinking about why I'm here.
In response to the question: Not: I’m traveling Southeast Asia. Not: I’m teaching English. Not: Because my parents screwed. Why are you here?...
Posted Tuesday November 25th, 2008.
Luna d'Autunno (by a country mile)
In response to the question: Whats your vote for the best pizza in Hanoi?...
Posted Tuesday December 2nd, 2008.
I don't think you'll find it difficult to find a teaching job, demand is general far greater than supply here.
Just be aware that although you have a TESOL certificate (which a number of schools will accept as a qualification) without a degree you will not be able to obtain a work permit. A lot of schools have found ways around this in the past and I'm sure they will continue to do so, but it is something to be mindful of.
In response to the question: First I would like to say hello to everyone, and thank you all for everything that you contribute to this site. My question is hopefully a simple one....
Posted Wednesday December 10th, 2008.
I'm heading down to Sai Gon early tomorrow morning. I'll see what I can add. That's if any of my favourite places are still there...
In response to the question: It looks half dead. What's wrong with it?...
Posted Wednesday December 17th, 2008.
Shame I've already book tickets for Tet then.
I've seen them advertise flights to London for $200 recently too. The thought of being on an AirAsia flight for that long chills me to the bone though...
In response to the question: BKK for Tet for $50! KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — Southeast Asia's leading budget airline said Tuesday it will give away 100,000 plane tickets as par...
Posted Thursday December 18th, 2008.
I have definitely bought and eaten real spinach in Hanoi. I bought it at may local market (before I moved) on Linh Lang St, in Ba Dinh, not far from the Daewoo Hotel. I have no idea how it translates into Vietnamese though, and I only saw it in the summer months (like many other green, leafy veg).
In response to the question: I love spinach. I dont like Morning Glory. EVERY time I see "spinach" on a menu as a side dish, morning glory arrives at my table. So, I learned ...
Posted Saturday December 20th, 2008.
Luong Van Can St, near the end that meets Hang Gai. There are a few shops that sell nothing but that kind of stuff.
In response to the question: we want to buy a toy car similar to those you see in the playgrounds of nurseries- the sort that toddlers sit in and push around with their legs. all ...
Posted Saturday December 27th, 2008.
This place
http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/en/venue/show/2289/Tolia
in Hanoi Towers.
In response to the question: Are there any cheap outlets or "outlets" anyone knows of? Or a street with lots of clothing shops? Thanks, and merry xmas!...
Posted Saturday December 27th, 2008.
I brought some back with me from the US a few months ago but haven't had a chance to use them yet. If anyone's up for a game I can donate the chips!
In response to the question: Hi, do u know where we can find some poker chips here in Hanoi? Tks. bb...
Posted Saturday December 27th, 2008.
Will do!
In response to the question: Hi, do u know where we can find some poker chips here in Hanoi? Tks. bb...
Posted Tuesday December 30th, 2008.
Metro probably has Budweiser because it is being distributed in Vietnam now, as I found out on a recent trip to Saigon - Budweiser promos all over the place...
In response to the question: Too bad there's no section for dumbass questions, otherwise I'd gladly tag this as such. I have never been to the Big C or Metro (insert appalled...
Posted Wednesday December 31st, 2008.
By rye bread I assume you mean pumpernickel or the dense European black bread, given the nature of your enquiry.
Dans shop at Van Phuc has some, if that's what you're after.
In response to the question: Anyone has come aross rye bread,sugarless peanut butter, olive oil spray here ?...
Posted Thursday January 8th, 2009.
If you're going to teach English here, do it properly and take a course before you start. You'll find it much more rewarding in the long run and you'll be able to get a better job here and in the future.
CELTA courses are much cheaper here than in the UK, and are of the same quality. You can do a CELTA course here for around $1500, I think. A couple of schools in Hanoi do them, as do a couple in Ho Chi Minh City.
As for fake certificates and low ability 2nd language English speakers goes, these things do happen, but it has a negative effect on the image of language teachers who are here and are actually committed to teaching English, rather than just picking up a paycheck. Frankly, Vietnamese students have learned from poor English speakers/teachers for long enough.
If teaching is for you, then you won't regret doing a proper course and getting some training.
In response to the question: Well I am pretty sure that this question has been asked a multitude of times so you lovely forum regulars will be tired of it. But, what the hell, her...
Posted Friday January 9th, 2009.
I reckon they are the same, and I've eaten enough it it/them. The name seems to be used interchangeably.
In response to the question: Is there a difference between Banh My Bit Tet and Banh My Hue? I see it listed differently on several menus, but I can't differentiate between the tw...
Posted Friday January 9th, 2009.
They have it in Dan's shop from time to time, and I've seen it in Citimart too.
Basmati rice is not considered low GI though. Medium, perhaps. I have seen brown Thai rice available in lots of supermarkets too, but again it's lower GI than white rice but not actually low GI.
In response to the question: I would like to buy some low gi rice like basmati. Of all of the wonderful brands of rice available here does anyone know the name of another low gi r...
Posted Friday January 9th, 2009.
ravinder - GI ratings for brown rice put it at medium, 56 - 69. Basmati Rice is generally rated between 56 and 59.
In response to the question: I would like to buy some low gi rice like basmati. Of all of the wonderful brands of rice available here does anyone know the name of another low gi r...
Posted Monday January 12th, 2009.
I did this recently and used a Taxi Tai company - I think they were called Thanh Hung, but I can't be sure of that. I'm afraid I don't have the number either!
They were pretty cheap - they charge by the meter unless you want someone to do the lifting, then they charge extra. I think we paid about 140,000 for a 2m x 2m x 3m to go about 6km.
There was no English spoken though, so if you find a company you might need to have someone arrange it for you.
In response to the question: Can anyone reccommend 'a person with a van'to move furniture from one part of Hanoi to another? I have tried a few phone numbers -two were not in use ...
Posted Monday January 12th, 2009.
With a Taxi Tai, making sure things are wrapped/protected is very much your responsibility anyway. You pack and you load, normally.
In response to the question: Can anyone reccommend 'a person with a van'to move furniture from one part of Hanoi to another? I have tried a few phone numbers -two were not in use ...
Posted Tuesday January 13th, 2009.
Definitely get them dealt with ASAP. We moved into a place with loads of termites just before it got warm last year, and they swarmed inside the house. It wasn't much fun.
In response to the question: I moved to a new house and have crunching sounds emanating from some of the wooden furniture. That's a good thing, right?...
Posted Thursday February 5th, 2009.
I saw the same note regarding ATM fees for Vietcombank users who use other ATMs. Before this used to be free but now they charge 3,300VND to withdraw cash, and about 1,600 to check your balance. At least that's what it said on the note I saw.
At least it's not the $5 that HSBC charge for using atms that are not their own.
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 Friday February 13th, 2009.
I saw some here:
http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/en/venue/show/2339/Momiji
In response to the question: Anyone know where I can buy uncooked edamame to prepare at home?...
Posted Thursday February 19th, 2009.
Wow, someone's got themselves a persecution complex!
Oh, and no one's paying tax at the moment. Well, not until May anyway...
In response to the question: Why you hating on somebody that makes money or NGO's and diplomats? The sentiment in this website is that NGO's, diplomats and so on are just leac...
Posted Friday February 20th, 2009.
AnhandMatt I think you're correct. I've known a few people who have come to Vietnam and found it didn't suit them, so they left. Those people who stick around and are resentful or miserable about it are exactly the people who take their misery wherever they go. Wake up and enjoy life for what it is, wherever you may be.
In response to the question: Please advise on where the people that are happy with themselves, life and all things in general are? Im looking beyond income, gender, class, educ...
Posted Friday February 20th, 2009.
Wow, grass skiing - where's that?
In response to the question: Go Kart track. Any in town? Just saw some boys tinkering with a go kart at a mechanics. Got me wondering..... got me a hankering for some Go karting a...
Posted Friday February 20th, 2009.
I didn't know this until someone told me this week, but there are proper bumper cars in Tong Nhat Park.
In response to the question: Go Kart track. Any in town? Just saw some boys tinkering with a go kart at a mechanics. Got me wondering..... got me a hankering for some Go karting a...
Posted Friday March 6th, 2009.
Erm, if you are talking about the big concrete one on the corner of Van Bao and Kim Ma/Van Phuc, then it's not exactly unoccupied. I see people going in and out all the time, though it doesn't seem to be being used to it's potential.
I'm not sure the reason why it's not rented given by bobthebob is correct either, as all of the buildings in that area (Van Phuc) are owned (or at least the land) by the ministry if foreign affairs, and there are plenty of private sector businesses operating there.
It is a fantastic building though. I'd love to get in and take some moody photos of it. It'd make a great location for a post apocalyptic movie too!
In response to the question: Ok for some weekend fun I thought I would ask about something that has been puzzling me for some time....300 Kim Ma St. Not long after I arrived a fr...
Posted Monday March 16th, 2009.
Erm, yes. Vietnam Dong is utterly worthless outside of Vietnam. Nobody will change it nor accept it, even on flights out of Vietnam (at least other than those operated by Vietnam Airlines).
And in reply to an earlier post by gertie_and_chester, HSBC does do internet banking and you can transfer money abroad using this facility, but again in foreign currency only.
In response to the question: Hi. I can see this question has been asked here before, but quite a while ago. Maybe there are some recent updates on the front. I hope its OK I ma...
Posted Friday March 27th, 2009.
It's the embassador's residence.
The restaurant itself has a wooden, Japanese styled front, with a red curtains over the entrance.
It's not on the Kim Ma side of Van Phuc, but the actual Van Phuc Street which links onto Lieu Giai St.
In response to the question: Is Kamon (the restaurat at 104 Van Phuc) still open? I seem not to find it and I live just in the area. Is it near the Japanese Embassy? Many thanks ...
Posted Friday March 27th, 2009.
Not sure about prints on non Fuji/Kodak paper, but Nguyen Cau does decent wood mounted large prints. I put the details in the response in the photo groupd discussion.
I think they do matte paper, but even if they don't you can get them laminated in matte or glossy laminate.
In response to the question: Does anyone have advice on where I can get large(r) size prints made (probably about A2 size) and mounted on wood? It's for photographs, so a high qua...
Posted Sunday March 29th, 2009.
The camera store at the top of Hoan Kiem lake, by the big junction. They sell large packs of silica gel. The signage has a large Nikon logo, but I can't remember the name of the store. It was reasonably priced as I remember.
In response to the question: Does anyone know where to buy packs of silica gel? moisture absorbent for packing with electrical goods etc. we haven't come across silica gel street...
Posted Wednesday April 1st, 2009.
lypatma - Things do change from time to time, but the work permit process isn't as unclear as lots of people claim it is.
I answered a similar query in another thread ages ago with some basic work permit info:
http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/aska/answers/qid/790
As I said, things may have changed a little, but they are still basically the same.
In response to the question: I'm in hanoi on a 1 year business visa which I obtained without any invitation from a company. My aim is to do business here, but due to the bad econo...
Posted Thursday April 2nd, 2009.
Nguyen Cau, 1 Ba Trieu St
http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/en/venue/show/2287/Nguyen-Cau
Just down from the corner where Bobby Chinns restaurant was.
They have a good range of standard sizes with clear prices, they do large prints and they do a decent job. If you take them the file on disc/USB stick/memory card, they'll copy it to their computer, and print that to your specifications.
As with any photo printing here, you'll will need to specify that you don't want them to adjust the pictures in photoshop if you want to keep the files as they are.
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 Friday April 3rd, 2009.
20k for that size can't be right, it must be cm.
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 Sunday April 5th, 2009.
The Street dominic is referring to near Van Mieu is called Nguyen Khuyen St. There's a good selection of paints, brushes, trays, rollers, masking tape and pretty much everything you'll need there.
I bought supplies from the shop on the corner of Nguyen Khuyen St and Van Mieu St, the prices were reasonable and they understood my mimes as my Vietnamese vocabulary had not extended as far as decorating at the time.
In response to the question: I want to paint. Okay, not exactly fine arts but a wall inside my house. Should I use the water-soluble powder or other paint? ...
Posted Friday April 10th, 2009.
I don't know how much it costs, but SOS definitely do it, as it's part of the Work Permit medical check package. The Viet Phap hospital also do.
In response to the question: Does anyone know of a hospital/doctor's office that offers a cheap HIV test? Also, preferably a place that can administer the test after 4pm? The 1 ...
Posted Friday April 17th, 2009.
The metered xe om company was around longer than 6 months ago, and I have heard many good reports of their service. I haven't seen them around for a while though, although I did see a couple of guys wearing the vests a month or two back.
A metered xe om company would definitely be a good way to ensure a little more safety and accountability with xe oms. There's definitely a market for it.
As regards laws for xe oms, and motorbikes in general, I'm in agreement with most in this thread is that laws do nothing without enforcement, and genuine (by which I mean not for personal profit) enforcement is a rare thing to find on the streets of Hanoi.
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 Friday April 17th, 2009.
Try searching for you query before you post a question - this is from 3 weeks ago:
http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/en/aska/answers/qid/1844
In response to the question: Does anyone know a good print shop that does quality block mounting? I have some hi-res digital photos Ive taken I want mounted to decorate the sparse...
Posted Saturday April 18th, 2009.
This may be a little late for the original poster, but if anyone's looking for en external drive, I got a Western Digital 1TB drive for $190 at a small shop a few doors along from Bobby Chinn's (as was).
I was in there again today and the price is now $175. I know they're not portable, but that's a pretty decent price, and mine has been working fine.
The place is Tech Land, 35 Hang Khay.
In response to the question: Where can I buy an external hard drive for my Mac which is reasonably priced and is of good quality? Many thanks...
Posted Tuesday April 21st, 2009.
I would assume that you can buy them from the Vietnam Football Federation, on Ly Van Phuc Street, so you could try there.
Contact details here:
18 Ly Van Phuc str., Dong Da dist, Ha Noi Tel: +84 -04. 7341353 Fax: +84 - 04. 8233119
This looks to be helpful for tickets too:
http://www.olympiakos.com.vn/
In response to the question: Hello, does anybody know, how to buy tickets for the friendship-game between Olympiakos and the Vietnam National Squad in May? Best greetings...
Posted Tuesday April 21st, 2009.
I have the USB one, but they have the Firewire, and that new connection (don't know the name) too. I think the firewire was marginally more expensive.
In response to the question: Where can I buy an external hard drive for my Mac which is reasonably priced and is of good quality? Many thanks...
Posted Tuesday April 21st, 2009.
Yeah, that'll be termites. We've had a swarm or two recently. You can hear them munching away at your wooden stuff especially, though they can go for non-wooden stuff too.
Your Landlord should be able to spray the wooden stuff for you, or at the very least provide the stuff so you can do it yourself. Make sure you spray in the morning and leave the house for the rest of the day though, it's nasty stuff.
In response to the question: Does anyone else hear scratching noises in the walls of their houses/apartments. I was studying tonight and I heard this clicking/scratching sound. At...
Posted Friday May 8th, 2009.
Does anyone know where one might be able to buy the boxes mentioned in Adeher's post above?
We've definitely got termites and there is so much wood in this house, spraying is an option that I want to avoid.
In response to the question: I moved to a new house and have crunching sounds emanating from some of the wooden furniture. That's a good thing, right?...
Posted Tuesday May 19th, 2009.
My understanding was that the import tax on electronic goods no longer existed. It was supposed to have stopped from 1st January this year. I've seen lots of imported good that are MUCH cheaper than they were before so assumed this to be true.
In response to the question: My computer is slowly dying the death and so I want to get the one I left in the states shipped over. (Feel its stupid to buy another computer when I ...
Posted Monday June 1st, 2009.
I too have been after making Curry Goat. I've asked a few places and got negative answers. I have been told (by someone who lives nearby) that goat meat can be bought at Long Bien Market.
I've not seen any scotch bonnet peppers anywhere unfortunately, although the orange chillies that are roughly the size of a jalapeno work as a good substitute (at least they did in my Jerk Chicken).
In response to the question: Where can I buy fresh goat meat?...
Posted Wednesday June 3rd, 2009.
As mentioned above, Nguyen Cau at No 1 Ba Trieu (a few doors down from the intersection of Trang Thi and Ba Trieu) does 135 and 120 rolls in BW and colour (C41 but not E6). BW takes a couple of days, usually.
I have rolls developed there regularly, but I scan the negs myself as their scanning is not so hot.
I am currently on the trail of a mysterious shop somewhere on Tran Hung Dao that sells chemicals too. I actually have some that were purchased from this place by an acquaintance, but he doesn't know the actual address. I've asked for some assistance on Hanoi based photo groups and will hopefully have an answer soon. I will post when I do.
In response to the question: Hi! I have yet to find a decent place in Hanoi that develops photos from film. Based on friends recommendations, I have now tried several different p...
Posted Wednesday June 3rd, 2009.
Yes I did. I'll post it here, just in case anyone else is interested.
Amounts vary depending on the amount of meat and taste of the cook. My approach doesn't involve much measuring I'm afraid though - I just sort of know when it's right.
This is for about 10 chicken legs (breast meat is no good for this dish, but wings are fine).
Jerk Marinade:
A good handful of spring onions
About 3 bulbs (not cloves) garlic
20 - 30 orange Chillies (ot vang)
4 inch piece of ginger
a good pinch of salt (you need quite a bit)
a good pinch of pepper
about 3 table sp of allspice (NOT mixed spice)
about 1 table spoon cinnamon
about 1/2 table spoon nutmeg
about 1 table spoon dried thyme
Brown Sugar - min 3 spoons, but to taste
Some oil to assist the paste
A little dark rum (optional but good)
Blend all ingredients together or pound them in a pestle and mortar if you have that kind of free time. When you taste raw it it should be pretty fiery and quite salty, with a sweet aftertaste.
Cut slashes into the chicken legs, rub the seasoning well (you might want plastic gloves for this part), and leave for at least a couple of hours. Then BBQ - it's better if your BBQ has a lid, to get that smoky flavour, but just fine if grilled regularly too. Failing that, an oven at 220C does the job nicely.
Jerking is not an exact science (ahem), but for a reasonably authentic taste you must have the garlic, chillies, ginger, onion, allspice, thyme, sugar, salt and pepper. The other spices can be up to you really, but this works well.
In response to the question: Where can I buy fresh goat meat?...
Posted Wednesday June 3rd, 2009.
Zimdingo - was your goat meat boneless or still on the bone?
In response to the question: Where can I buy fresh goat meat?...
Posted Wednesday June 3rd, 2009.
OK ladyvengeance, I have an answer on the chemicals too now.
I'm reliably informed that the place is called Chu Binh, and is at 15A Trần Hưng Đạo.
In response to the question: Hi! I have yet to find a decent place in Hanoi that develops photos from film. Based on friends recommendations, I have now tried several different p...
Posted Thursday June 4th, 2009.
Zimdingo - where is Hanoi Small Goods? There doesn't seem to be a listing for them.
In response to the question: Where can I buy fresh goat meat?...
Posted Thursday June 4th, 2009.
No worries, Lady V.
Have you considered joining the TNH Photo club?
In response to the question: Hi! I have yet to find a decent place in Hanoi that develops photos from film. Based on friends recommendations, I have now tried several different p...
Posted Friday June 5th, 2009.
Both use N2O.
NO2 is poionsous.
In response to the question: Has anyone seen mini gas bulbs here in Hanoi, or know how to source them? CO2 is usually for making soda water N2O is usually for making whipped c...
Posted Sunday June 7th, 2009.
I think not.
N2O maybe, but not NO2.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nitrogen_dioxide
In response to the question: Has anyone seen mini gas bulbs here in Hanoi, or know how to source them? CO2 is usually for making soda water N2O is usually for making whipped c...
Posted Monday June 8th, 2009.
One option is to buy a dry cabinet. They come in various sizes, so you could one to fit your leather goods, or other mold-prone items.
You can buy them in camera stores generally, but they are good for protecting all kinds of things including wine, medicines and food.
They start at about $80 for a little one. Let me know if you want a recommendation of a place to buy one.
In response to the question: Any expert advice on how to prevent leather shoes and bags from moulding when I am away for a couple of days; and little unidentified buggers from eat...
Posted Tuesday June 9th, 2009.
You used to be able to check on the power company website to see where the power cuts would be, from what time, and for how long. Maybe you still can, but I can't find the website address - anyone know?
In response to the question: No, I have not lost my mind - I want to know more about the power outages. I've been doing some reading on this since the last couple of days have le...
Posted Tuesday June 9th, 2009.
Thanks Giang.
In response to the question: No, I have not lost my mind - I want to know more about the power outages. I've been doing some reading on this since the last couple of days have le...
Posted Wednesday June 10th, 2009.
Are you judging this from the scan or the negative?
Scanning is a tricky business, especially with 120 film. I find it very difficult to maintain film flatness, which ends up with white (or at least brighter) edges.
In response to the question: Hi! I have yet to find a decent place in Hanoi that develops photos from film. Based on friends recommendations, I have now tried several different p...
Posted Sunday June 14th, 2009.
If the company you are working for will assist with your Vietnam work permit, they will ask you to obtain a police clearance for Vietnam. When I did this I was given a form which I had to get signed by the local police to confirm where I was living (my landlady did this). This form then accompanied the police check application form. If you company knows what they are doing this part should be quite simple. Then you get a police clearance certificate back in due course (may take a few weeks).
So, as you are stating that you want a police clearance certificate when you leave Vietnam, you could always ask your company to do the same thing closer to the time that you are about to leave, thus giving you a an offical police clearance certificate to take to the next country that you choose to work in.
In response to the question: I would be working in Vietnam soon. However, for future immigration purposes, I need a Police Certificate from Vietnam authorities, called the Judicia...
Posted Sunday June 14th, 2009.
Surely as a freelance food writer you would want to visit the restaurants that describe themselves as "upscale/trendy/etc..." (check any listings section, including this site) and decide which were worth writing about?
Do your own research.
In response to the question: hi, i freelance as a food and spirits writer for american magazines and i was wondering if there were any restaurants/bars/food-related spots that ha...
Posted Monday June 15th, 2009.
That would be Dang Dung St.
In response to the question: Where can one buy a used mobile phone for 299,000 VND or less? There must be a surplus somewhere....
Posted Monday June 15th, 2009.
Good luck trying to find a park where you can sit on the grass, if that's what you're looking for. I watched with amusement last week as a park security guard went from annoyed to apoplectic shouting at people to get of the grass in a local park.
Tong Nhat Park might give you what you're after, or the botanical gardens.
Outside of Hanoi, but not that far, a nice spot is Dai Lai Lake.
In response to the question: I searched ANH for "park" and "picnic" before deciding to write this post. Didn't find anything particularly helpful, so... Does anyone know of a ...
Posted Monday June 15th, 2009.
The entry fee, if I recall correctly, is minimal (max 15,000VND). Food is no problem. The top of the little hill seems to be a popular spot.
In response to the question: I searched ANH for "park" and "picnic" before deciding to write this post. Didn't find anything particularly helpful, so... Does anyone know of a ...
Posted Monday June 15th, 2009.
It works, I've done it.
However, it's pretty expensive for small amounts, and you can only use US Dollars to make the transaction, VND will not be accepted.
In response to the question: Grant mentioned in a thread a while back that transferring money out of Vietnam via Western Union is "unworkable." Can Grant, or anyone else, expand o...
Posted Monday June 15th, 2009.
The list on the Western Union website of places that can send is not correct though. The only place I found that would send money was VP Bank (the big branch at opposite Thuy Ta cafe at the northern end of Hoan Kiem Lake).
In response to the question: Grant mentioned in a thread a while back that transferring money out of Vietnam via Western Union is "unworkable." Can Grant, or anyone else, expand o...
Posted Tuesday June 16th, 2009.
Paypal pretty much refuse to have anything to do with Vietnam in my experience. I can't set up an account with my home bank account from here, I can't use any credit card through their one-off service, and they have told me through various "customer service" emails that setting something up here is not possible, even with a Vietnamese credit card/account.
In response to the question: Grant mentioned in a thread a while back that transferring money out of Vietnam via Western Union is "unworkable." Can Grant, or anyone else, expand o...
Posted Friday June 19th, 2009.
Pho 'tog' raphers.
In response to the question: I have seen some very well don epictures in the glossy magazines here and would like to know how, where and whom to contact to get a professional phot...
Posted Friday June 26th, 2009.
I reckon I saw some at the duty free shop on Giang Vo last time I was there. You can only purchase from there within five days of entering the country though, and stocking is pretty random, you just have to see what they have at the time.
In response to the question: If the q's been asked before I cannot find it. Does anybody know where to buy a bread making machine. ...
Posted Thursday July 2nd, 2009.
Yes, of course it's funny. It's funny when people fuck up the English language too (see engrish.com for more details).
It's just not generally considered rude to laugh at foreigners here, whereas (some, not all) Western cultures frown upon doing this when someone is trying to communicate in their native language. Just a cultural barrier, I would say.
In response to the question: Do you think it is essential to study Vietnamese when you will stay here for over one year or just learn it for fun? I know some of people coming here...
Posted Sunday July 5th, 2009.
If you are looking to take street portraits, candid or otherwise, then you'll find plenty of opportunity in the old quarter. Dong Xuan market, the street that sells bamboo (Hang ???), and actually pretty much anywhere in the old streets is good.
Around Hoan Kiem lake early (very early) in the morning is good - you can see plenty of people exercising, and it's also good late afternoon. Same goes for Ba Dinh square (next to the mausoleum), for the same reason.
As far as buying a lens here, I would imagine that you'd get a better deal in Singapore. Buying camera equipment here is not that cheap, especially as a tourist.
In response to the question: Am visiting Hanoi for business and chanced upon this site while doing research on places around Hanoi to go for good photo opportunities - portrait an...
Posted Monday July 6th, 2009.
The place you want is on Hang Gai st, can't remember the number though. All they do is make stamps, just show them what you want and they'll choose a size that fits the design. Takes about a day or so to have them made. It's not particularly cheap, but they do a good job.
I thought I'd entered it on the site, but can't seem to find it. I'll check the stamp at work and get the proper address for you later.
In response to the question: Hi, I'm looking to buy a bunch of self-inking stamps for my kindy/primary school age ESL classes. Animals, Shapes, Words, anything at this point...
Posted Monday July 6th, 2009.
In order to qualify for the recent tax exemption (I assume that this is what you are referring to) you have to be a "tax resident".
My understanding is that this means that you have to have a residential address here and have been in the country for a minimum of 183 days.
Looks like you're out of luck, I'm afraid.
In response to the question: Is anyone here clear on the rules concerning this recent tax refund. The school at which I currently work paid back the exact amount that I was expec...
Posted Monday July 6th, 2009.
The store I mentioned earlier is called Tinh Hoa, and it's at 56 or 57 Hang Gai (left side of the road if you are heading away from Hoan Kiem Lake). They make to order but might have what you are looking for.
In response to the question: Hi, I'm looking to buy a bunch of self-inking stamps for my kindy/primary school age ESL classes. Animals, Shapes, Words, anything at this point...
Posted Monday July 6th, 2009.
Thanks hnboy. Probably should have been more specific and asked for actual restaurants/places. Any ideas?
In response to the question: We're off to Hue this coming weekend for a quick break. Does anyone have good food recommendations? I've been there before but it was 3 years ago and ...
Posted Thursday July 9th, 2009.
Thanks all for the comprehensive responses. Am very much looking forward to Hue now.
In response to the question: We're off to Hue this coming weekend for a quick break. Does anyone have good food recommendations? I've been there before but it was 3 years ago and ...
Posted Friday July 10th, 2009.
For a great value, Frenchish style brasserie, try Le Jardin on Thai Van Lung St.
Au Parc, near the Cathedral, is great or breakfasts (the Turkish breakfast in particular), and sandwiches/lunch. It's on the So Saigon site if you need the address.
Benh Thanh Market can be fun for food at night - lots of options.
My favourite (southern) Pho ever can be bought in a Pho shop that runs round the clock on Pham Ngu Lao St, on the corner of the last road before the market at the at where it meets Nguyen Trai.
In response to the question: I'd appreciate tips for any can't miss restos in HCMC - doesn't necessarily have to be for Vietnamese food. Thanks in advance....
Posted Friday July 10th, 2009.
There used to be a decent little Thai place on Bui Vien St, at the opposite end to the bigger bars (Go2 etc), called Coriander. Not sure if it's still there but that always did a roaring trade.
In response to the question: I'd appreciate tips for any can't miss restos in HCMC - doesn't necessarily have to be for Vietnamese food. Thanks in advance....
Posted Tuesday July 14th, 2009.
Just got back - did find good food. Of the recommendations above we went to:
Y Thao Jardin, which was better than I expected, given that it was full of tour groups when we got there, and they only have a set menu, no a la carte.
Lac Thien was pretty good. Cheap tasty and fun. definitely recommended. The other places next to it are basically the same too, following the standard copycat model of "if it ain't broke, copy and change the name slightly in order to attract business".
For me though, the tastiest Hue style food was in Dong Ba market. Couldn't tell you the names of everything we ate, nor could I tell exactly where the stall was (somewhere in the middle) but it was all pretty tasty. Marked up for Tay, but still very cheap!
Also recommended, should anyone feel like splashing out when they go there, is a stay at La Residence. Fantastic hotel, great service, good cocktails, lovely big salt water pool, and great food too. And it's right on the river.
Cheers again for the tips.
In response to the question: We're off to Hue this coming weekend for a quick break. Does anyone have good food recommendations? I've been there before but it was 3 years ago and ...
Posted Wednesday July 15th, 2009.
Boiling tap water will not remove arsenic. Neither will a standard water filter, I believe. Some info here (not that you couldn't find it yourselves).
I tend to use bottled for everything after reading too much about arsenic contamination of groundwater in these parts, though sometimes I get lazy and use tap water for cooking.
In response to the question: Yes, folks, I'm rather chatty today. My question about water. First, I've been reading all these reports about how bottled water is not good for yo...
Posted Wednesday July 15th, 2009.
Not that I doubt your commitment to the point you are making, you should probably check your facts.
Quoc Tu Giam founded at the Confucian "Temple of Literature" - 1076
Earliest Cambridge colleges founded 1209
Earliest Oxford colleges can be traced to at least 1167, with some evidence showing teaching possibly as far back as the 10th century.
In response to the question: Hi, A while ago I started working for a kids learning centre, which after two weeks just wasn't working out for me - loads of travel to different ...
Posted Thursday July 16th, 2009.
Perhaps this should go into another thread, but...
Pinto, your initial central premise, from what I have read above is that the teaching qualifications that are required by the Vietnamese government are not sufficient. In order to teach English in Vietnam legally you need the following qualifications: A Bachelors degree (any) AND a recognised TEFL teaching certificate (some are accepted, some not). Perhaps, if these qualifications are not sufficient to teach the people of this country, the government should reassess their position.
I do accept, though that there are schools here who do not check qualifications or are not concerned with meeting work permit requirements, and this is obviously of concern to parents and children. To tar most English teachers here with the same brush as the "money hungry, unqualified, and quite possibly (shock, horror) Irish teachers" is inaccurate and unhelpful.
Your take on Confucianism is interesting (which is not to say inaccurate, lest you misinterpret my words), but I would say that anyone who has spent time teaching the students of this country would be well aware that Confucian ideals penetrate the education system in name only. A trite example perhaps, but the Confucian ideal of "I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand" do seem to be slightly at odds with the system of rote learning employed in the teaching of English in schools in this country, where grammar is learnt by rule and no actual real practice takes place.
In response to the question: Hi, A while ago I started working for a kids learning centre, which after two weeks just wasn't working out for me - loads of travel to different ...
Posted Thursday July 16th, 2009.
Yeah, Family Medical Practice does them for our company. I've heard it's pretty good.
In response to the question: Does anyone know of a first aid training course in Hanoi? for English speakers? just the basics......
Posted Friday July 17th, 2009.
As I understand it, you only need to have 6 months remaining on your passport and have at least 2 empty pages (one for visa and one for the stamp) but I am not absolutely certain on that.
Nat - If you have a British or Australian passport you have to buy a new passport. They will not add new pages to an existing passport. If you get a 48 page one they cost about 5 million VND, a standard one is around 4.2 million. I suspect that it's joeburg is not British though, as they seem to get them back in about 7 days.
In response to the question: I left Vietnam yesterday. With the exit stamp my passport now only has 2 empty pages, the customs guy said something to me and pointed to the stamp. ...
Posted Tuesday July 21st, 2009.
Again from Wikipedia:
Partial eclipse 23:58:18 (Jul 21)
Total eclipse 00:51:16
Central eclipse 00:54:31
Greatest eclipse 02:35:21
Vietnam is UTC +7 hours, so it'll be early morning.
In response to the question: Ok final DA question for July. Tomorrow is the eclipse - does any one know what time? I googled it, but kept getting everything BUT the exact time...
Posted Thursday July 30th, 2009.
g_&_c - They've already decided that they won't claim it back. There was a thread on it somewhere a little while ago.
In response to the question: Hello The New Hanoian's I would appreciate if you can share with me any info relating to paying income tax in Vietnam (for foreigners working in Viet...
Posted Saturday August 1st, 2009.
He has, in fact, just left. Yesterday was his last day at the restaurant. The restaurant is not closing though.
In response to the question: I drove to Khazaana the other night, but it was very dark, door was closed, did they move? any idea?...
Posted Monday August 3rd, 2009.
**BUMP**
Anyone interested in a TNH pool night?
Was thinking of playing at Bingo
Would eventually like to start a little league, so will start a group if there's enough interested.
In response to the question: Does anyone want to start a New Hanoian Pool League? Any kind of pool - Eight or Nine Ball, occasional meetings or regular, bit of a laugh and a b...
Posted Monday August 3rd, 2009.
There's plenty of good advice in most travel guides for Myanmar.
The main things I'd be aware of are:
- Getting between cities can be tedious if going by bus, especially if you have to go through mountains. If you don't mind the hardships of old Chinese buses with small stools down the aisle for extra seats, or even if you relish the challenge, then you'll be fine. If long, delayed, or uncomfortable journeys bother you, then fly , or take the tourist boat where you can.
- Take medicine with you. Get antibiotics and whatever you need should you pick up giardiasis or something similar (which is fairly common). As you'll most likely go through Bangkok to get there, I'd recommend going to a good pharmacy to stock up. Good medicines are not easy to find once you are there. I'm very glad that I did this.
- This tip may be out of date, but make sure you take enough cash (USD). When I was there, I ran out and had to purchase USD on credit card through a large hotel at the cost of 25% commision. I'd check some up to date sources on banks and atms, when I went there were precisely none that foreigners could use.
If you were looking for tips about where to go, I would recommend :
-Bago
-Kyaiktiyo
-Inle Lake
-Mandalay
-Bagan
I'd say, with the possible exception of travelling around the central highlands of Vietnam, the month I spent in Myanmar was the most enjoyable travel experience I've had in SE Asia. Oh, and I went alone, with no problems whatsoever.
In response to the question: Would love to hear if anyone has traveled to Myanmar? Any advice/tips would be great. ...
Posted Monday August 3rd, 2009.
Yeah, I think so. It did when I was there last, but that was some time ago. Maybe I need to do a bit of an exploratory mission of pool halls.
In response to the question: Does anyone want to start a New Hanoian Pool League? Any kind of pool - Eight or Nine Ball, occasional meetings or regular, bit of a laugh and a b...
Posted Tuesday August 4th, 2009.
There's a small place on the corner of Hang Gai & either Ly Quoc Su or Hang Trong that prints t shirts with your design.
I don't know anything about though. Perhaps a NH has tried it?
In response to the question: Looking to have ten to fifteen custom made tshirts for a party, simple design maybe silkscreening, any idea on where to get them? also how much and lo...
Posted Tuesday August 4th, 2009.
Tobacco in your socks is supposed to repel leeches too. I bet it stains your socks though.
In response to the question: Hi guys and gals! So may be some of you knows where to buy or rent a sleeping bag. Also I'm interested in obtaining a pair of leech proof socks. Damn...
Posted Thursday August 13th, 2009.
I tried the flour from Oasis recently and was very pleased with the results. I only tried the "baguette" flour but it made good ciabatta and focaccia. There were rye and other flours, and improver also available.
In response to the question: any special tips on making bread in a bread machine? i just made some and it did not rise much and just did not work out. The ingredients seemed...
Posted Thursday August 13th, 2009.
The place is currently a building site, or has at least been cleared and appears to be one. No idea what will be built there. I hope it'll be a brand new, spruced up but with the character A15, but I know in my heart that it won't be.
As for places that are as good, Pacific on Doi Can does a decent beer and food that's nearly up to the same standard, Bia Hai Xom on Giang Vo is decent (there's also one on Nguyen Dinh Chieu opposite Tong Nhat Park).
In response to the question: Now that the A-15 is officially listed as Defunct, just wondering if anything has replaced the restaurant at its location. Is there now a place as g...
Posted Sunday August 16th, 2009.
It's possible that Plume doesn't need one (you don't need one if you are a foreigner married to a Vietnamese citizen, I believe).
Plume - you were really asked for nothing else? No proof of qualifications? That doesn't sound like a reputable company.
In response to the question: What can I do when a center doesn't want to pay ma salary and ignore me or give me excuses not to help me? It's that man now... but he is not there or...
Posted Tuesday August 18th, 2009.
The explanation we had from FPT at work was the same as QUYDA's yesterday afternoon, expect that it was a cable from Hong Kong. Apparently it only affected North American sites, but that didn't seem to be the case for me, although almost all US based sites were slower. UK sites seemed the same.
"There are problem with one of the backbone connection in the region that managed by PCCW, a major hub in HK. This incident has caused trouble accessing most North America sites which include popular services like Yahoo, Microsoft, etc.... Meanwhile, accessing to Asia Pacific is still normal"
Seems back to normal now though.
In response to the question: Hello everyone, I have a computer related question ... really hope there are some computer whizkids out there willing to help me. I just moved...
Posted Tuesday August 18th, 2009.
Article on revised blood alcohol limits in Vietnam from earlier this year.
Pretty strict.
Enforcement, as always, is another issue.
In response to the question: Well?? Have you? What stopped you? Why did you start or why did you not partake? I doubt very much if there is one among us who has not done this at s...
Posted Tuesday August 25th, 2009.
I've been really happy with Nhat Quang Computer, on Ly Nam De St. I bought a PC and monitor there over a year ago and have been back for various upgrades with no problems.
There's little English spoken most of the time, but sometimes there is someone there who speaks quite well. Their catalogue is pretty self explanatory though, and they do have decent systems on display which they will make up for you.
I don't have the exact address, but it's one of last computer shops on the right hand side, heading south.
In response to the question: I'm in need of a new desktop (pc). I know there's computer street, but just the thought of going there sounds like a nightmare. Any recommendation...
Posted Friday August 28th, 2009.
Atomic - There is that place DOCO (Donuts and Coffee) on Hang Bong St which is worth a try for decent donuts (at least what I think are decent US style donuts, never seen a British one here)
VNBritExpat - Bit Tet = Bifte(c)k = Beef steak
VN from French, from English (although beef is from bouef originally anyway!).
I think Donkey just sounds similar. I bet you can make a recognisable logo with a donkey too.
In response to the question: Clearly my arse is not yet big enough to be declared a new planet. Either that or I look like a person who would clearly be a good customer. Why else ...
Posted Friday August 28th, 2009.
As with so many things, it really comes down to what suits you, and how much you are prepared to pay for quality. Most (if not all) brands have lower end products and ,as a rule, it's not worth buying the cheapest in any range, especially with point and shoots.
In my experience, Canon point and shoot cameras are pretty bloody good once you get off the bottom rung. Samsung are becoming well respected for their sensor manufacture, and I've heard decent things about their cameras too. I've seen some awful low end Sony cameras, your price range would probably be in this category.
I'd suggest finding out what you can get in your price range (relatively easy to do), do a little research to find out what features you can get and which you actually want, then going to try them all out. I.e. try a Nikon, Canon, Sony, Pentax, Samsung, Panasonic, Fujufilm etc. and see which one you like the feel of.
This site can be useful, if a bit techy:
In response to the question: Hi guys. I wanna buy a digital camera. Could you recommend a good brand? Which is better Sony or Kodak or Canon etc? ...
Posted Friday August 28th, 2009.
Alan/TSC - this debate could go on forever and isn't really helping Cresent buy a camera. I'm impartial on the Canon/Nikon issue as I don't use either, but it's pretty clear that there is very little between them in consumer range models, and the top of the line models are pretty comparable too. It just comes down to familiarity and feel most of the time.
Nybbler's suggestion might be one you'd to try Cresent, you can get them for under $200 (outside VN, it might be a little more here), and they are nifty little cameras.
In response to the question: Hi guys. I wanna buy a digital camera. Could you recommend a good brand? Which is better Sony or Kodak or Canon etc? ...
Posted Sunday August 30th, 2009.
Don't get sucked into the "more pixels is better" argument. Even with 6MP you can print fairly large and certainly put your photos online, unless you want to print to a professional standard. Go for build quality and features instead of going for the highest MP you can get. Most of the time you won't notice the difference between 6 MP and 10MP unless you are relying on the camera for professional work.
You can have a lot of pixels and a poor sensor/camera which will be worse than less pixels and good sensor/camera.
In response to the question: Hi guys. I wanna buy a digital camera. Could you recommend a good brand? Which is better Sony or Kodak or Canon etc? ...
Posted Tuesday September 1st, 2009.
Here too.
In response to the question: Seeing the avatar belonging to "Travel Goddess"- who has since left Hanoi - pop up has reminded of something that has been in my mind for a while....
Posted Saturday September 5th, 2009.
I'm pretty sure that the maximum allowed from HSBC ATMs in one transaction is 4,000,000 VND anyway.
In response to the question: I just arrived in Hanoi and am trying to withdraw funds to pay my rent deposit. I went to HSBC to withdraw the maximum of 4,800,000 and was hit with a...
Posted Saturday September 5th, 2009.
Really? That's useful info, thanks nat.
In response to the question: I just arrived in Hanoi and am trying to withdraw funds to pay my rent deposit. I went to HSBC to withdraw the maximum of 4,800,000 and was hit with a...
Posted Sunday September 6th, 2009.
This place has a good reputation:
http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/en/venue/show/710/Cafe-129
In response to the question: Can someone please help put me in the direction of a large hearty and filling English breakfast. The NH meet-up yesterday is causing havoc on my sens...
Posted Thursday September 10th, 2009.
I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but if there's fungus on the lens of your digital camera (I'm assuming you have a compact, not a DSLR, from the brand you mention), you will have to get a new camera IF the fungus is affecting the pictures you take. It won't always affect photos that much, depending on how sharp you want you pictures to be.
Where did you buy the camera? It may not be covered by warranty here if you didn't buy it here.
In response to the question: I searched google to no avail. I'm trying to find an authorized fuljifilm service centre in Hanoi. The humidity has caused spores to grow inside the...
Posted Thursday September 10th, 2009.
As this thread has been refreshed, the current Noi Bai Taxi rates are:
Hanoi - Noi Bai 180k
Noi Bai - Hanoi 230k
In response to the question: I have a friend arriving on a flight at 10:30 pm in a few months. I'm going to meet him at the airport. What are the best transport options to/from ...
Posted Thursday September 10th, 2009.
There is no rule to pronunciation of the letter i. It can in fact be pronounced a number of ways, you've given two examples.
I personally think the best thing to do is get a firm understanding of English phonemes. It can take a while, and certainly requires a lot of practice, but learning how to produce the individual sounds required is often a step missed in English language learning. If they learn how to produce the sounds, the learner is armed with the basics. Pronunciation can always be checked in a (good) dictionary, where you will always find a phonemic transcript of the word. Of course, plenty of conversational practice is also a must.
This interactive chart is a good introduction, but students normally need a good teacher to help them make the sounds. This is for standard British English, but charts exist for General American and Australian English too.
Another good online resource for pronunciation is on the Okanagan College website - here
The fourth unit is probably closest to the problem you describe - the /i:/ vs /I/ phoneme, basically short sounding - tin vs long sounding - teen.
The New Headway Pronunciation course is also good.
In response to the question: A friend of mine is learning English and is having a hard time with the letter "i". She does not know when to pronounce it using the long sound vs. th...
Posted Monday September 14th, 2009.
There are shops which sell plastic tube like things for carrying rolled artwork on Hang Can St. Look in the small shops that sell paper (you can't miss them, there's blocks of paper out the front).
In response to the question: My diplomas need protection from the elements and my employer has the tube I brought them in! Where can I find another? Any ideas in the Truc Bach a...
Posted Tuesday September 15th, 2009.
I've a set of 200, 4 colours, 8 gram clay chips (40 green, 30 blue, 20 red and 10 black).
Not enough for a big game but enough for a small game with mates.
You can have the set for nothing if you want, I don't use them. Send me a message if you want them.
In response to the question: Hi, do u know where we can find some poker chips here in Hanoi? Tks. bb...
Posted Tuesday September 15th, 2009.
Make that 100, not 200.
In response to the question: Hi, do u know where we can find some poker chips here in Hanoi? Tks. bb...
Posted Friday September 18th, 2009.
But would you really want to fly all the way to Singapore to get to Bangkok? That would hours onto your journey including all the check in and waiting times.
In response to the question: Does anyone know where to get a cheap roundtrip ticket to Bangkok from Hanoi? I have to flee the country to get a new three month tourist visa and the...
Posted Sunday September 20th, 2009.
At the risk of offending people who feel they have a right to be here (and apologies if this thread has gone off topic):
Regardless of the inconsistencies and flaws of the paperwork / system, if you can't fulfil the requirements for a work permit then you don't have anything to complain about.
It really is as simple as that.
If the problem is that it takes a long time to get the required documents certified etc then that's fair enough. However, there's only so long that you would expect to wait for such things, and as an employee in your home country you would probably (as an employer) expect this to be sorted out before you started in most situations. Would you expect to work legally at home without having you qualifications checked? It takes longer here, but YOU choose to be here.
In response to the question: Anyone got the 411 about some new law that says you can't buy a B3 Visa anymore at a travel agent and that it has to be sponsored by a 'real' business...
Posted Sunday September 20th, 2009.
You could join the Photography Group on this site, and try to get the members motivated enough to meet up and socialise. There will doubtless be a few people willing to give you crash course in the basics.
In response to the question: Anyone know a place that offers photography classes or know anyone who is interested in giving private lessons....
Posted Sunday September 20th, 2009.
Try getting hold of it though...
In response to the question: Does anyone know where to get a cheap roundtrip ticket to Bangkok from Hanoi? I have to flee the country to get a new three month tourist visa and the...
Posted Sunday September 20th, 2009.
Grant - you seem to have taken some personal offense to my post. None was intended. My post was not in response to yours, more a comment on the situation in general.
I understand that there are problems obtaining the required documents. I have been through the frustrating experience myself. Perhaps this didn't come across well, but the point I was making was more to do with actually having the required (by MOLISA or whichever dept) qualifications. I've heard a few people recently suggesting (reading between the lines on a few comments in this thread too) that trying to apply the the work permit law is somehow unfair, and it's this that I disagree with.
In response to the question: Anyone got the 411 about some new law that says you can't buy a B3 Visa anymore at a travel agent and that it has to be sponsored by a 'real' business...
Posted Monday September 21st, 2009.
Dan's has curry paste, seen a couple of different pastes there, though recently only Red Curry and Tom Yam.
In response to the question: I just arrived in Hanoi 20 days ago and I´ve being looking in different markets and only found red curry paste. Does anyone know where to find other ...
Posted Monday September 21st, 2009.
Sorry, here:
http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/en/venue/show/85/Dans
In response to the question: I just arrived in Hanoi 20 days ago and I´ve being looking in different markets and only found red curry paste. Does anyone know where to find other ...
Posted Wednesday September 23rd, 2009.
Buying dollars cost 18290 per dollar this weekend (in a gold shop), so it's not as bad as it has been previously.
You can actually trade/sell Dong in a few places outside Vietnam, Hong Kong is one, if I remember correctly.
In response to the question: What gives? lately, every shop that quotes in USD has been using 18k vnd as the exchange rate. I've not seen any dramatic change in the offical or ev...
Posted Tuesday September 29th, 2009.
As it gets cooler you will see them around more, on the streets anyway. Seen them on Hang Dieu in the OQ, and on Nguyen Khuyen near Van Mieu, and quite a few on Doi Can St, but it seems to be later in the year. They tend to be called Banh Chuoi in my experience.
In response to the question: Does anyone know where I can find some chuoi chien (deep fried bananas) in Ha Noi? Thanks!!...
Posted Wednesday September 30th, 2009.
Which make/model are you looking for?
In response to the question: Hi, Does any one have any experience of buying cameras in Hanoi? I am looking to buy a new SLR camera. Prices for the same model vary a great deal....
Posted Friday October 9th, 2009.
Hmm. I've read that article before. While there may be some half-truths hidden in that article, it is basically just someone who is angry that the culture of the place he chose to visit on holiday is not like the culture of the place he comes from.
Unfortunately, I've heard (less intense) versions of this a number of times. I suppose living here/visiting here you do have to follow the golden rules:
1.Keep an open mind.
2.Have a sense of where you are.
3.Try not to be a c**t.
Unfortunately he has failed on all three counts.
In response to the question: Whilst stumbling around the net searching for culture clash advice for Vietnam (I'm Vietnamese Australian) i came across this article. http://travelv...
Posted Sunday October 11th, 2009.
There's a genuine Protec outlet on Ngoc Khanh Street in Ba Dinh District. When I find the exact address I'll add it.
In response to the question: Hi, Does anyone know where to buy authentic Pro-tec B2 helmet? I was looking on Hue street but there were a potato-shaped junk only....
Posted Tuesday October 20th, 2009.
Another vote for Lightroom.
The Nikon / Canon debate is a waste of time. They both have there advantages, and there are other very good brands out there if you don't want to pay the premium.
I echo TSC's response:
The best thing to do is go and try a few cameras out. It doesn't matter where - lots of places sell them. When you have tried a few in the price range you're looking at, make a decision. You can research and research, but at the end of the day it's not what other people think is good, but what you feel comfortable with that's important.
In response to the question: Hi all, I am thinking of becoming a grown up and upgrading my point and shoot digital camera to a DSLR. The Nikon D60 has be recommended to me as a g...
Posted Tuesday October 20th, 2009.
Whether this is factually correct or not, some of my female colleagues believe this day to be celebration and a giving of thanks to the many women who sacrificed much and fought in the wars in the second half of last century. I believe Alan's answer of the origin is true, but it appears (at least for some) to have taken on a further, related, meaning.
In response to the question: Can someone explain a little bit about Vietnam Women's Day? Is it like Mothers' Day back in the west but for all women?...
Posted Tuesday October 20th, 2009.
Grant - Spot on. I was going to respond myself but you've described the situation perfectly.
In response to the question: Anyone got the 411 about some new law that says you can't buy a B3 Visa anymore at a travel agent and that it has to be sponsored by a 'real' business...
Posted Wednesday October 21st, 2009.
This is the new incarnation:
In response to the question: Before moving here earlier this year, I've visited a few times - the first such visit being in early 2007, the last one being in late 2008. When I was...
Posted Tuesday October 27th, 2009.
5 is also nham in some places (usually after 15 as in above). In fact, I regularly hear people (not hanoians though) also say lam for 5 in all cases.
In response to the question: So here goes my first post after being here for two and a half months. A friend from Saigon recently overheard me on the phone calling a taxi, when I ...
Posted Wednesday October 28th, 2009.
Dan's shop, at the end of the Van Phuc complex, had them last year and they were pretty good.
In response to the question: Anyone know where I can buy a turkey? Tried Big C already - no luck. Thanks....
Posted Friday October 30th, 2009.
Any and every market in town will have potatoes, I've never been to one where there are none to be bought. As stated above they are usually pretty cheap.
The veg lady I always go to at Chau Long market is always trying to sell me them, even though she knows I'm not a fan.
In response to the question: After two months of rice and noodles I am desperate for some potatoes! Does anyone know where to buy potatoes? I have tried Fivimart and Intimax, and ...
Posted Friday November 20th, 2009.
A lovely place to stay in Luang Prabang is Lotus Villa.
They book up quick though, so book early.
In response to the question: My wife and I are taking a trip over to Laos and wondering if anyone has any recommendations for places to stay in Vientiane and Luang Prabang? Any su...
Posted Tuesday December 1st, 2009.
Correct Zapatamartel - there's no train to Da Lat so you would have to drive from Nha Trang.
Leaving from Hanoi on the 21st and making it there for Christmas is going some if you plan to see or do anything on the way.
In response to the question: Howdo I delete a question posted here?...
Posted Thursday December 3rd, 2009.
"Tays" are as diverse as "Asians" so it's really very difficult to make a generalisation in the first place.
If foreigners who live here are different to their compatriots back home it could be that Grant's supposition is correct, although it's just as likely that living abroad has caused them to change to some degree too. I know that I've changed in the last (nearly) 4 years as a result of living here.
In response to the question: Are Tays in Hanoi different to Tays in Europe?...
Posted Sunday December 6th, 2009.
A little of topic, but the pedant in me must point out the following.
Zimdingo said:
Hardly, the n-word is used as much if not more. It's still used in everyday conversation, people are just more careful who they say it around. Or it is couched within a word like "denigrate" or made into an adv./adj. "niggardly".
Correct, with denigrate (at least in terms of the literal meaning 'to blacken').
However, the word niggardly is in no way related to the word nigger. It is an adjective or adverb form of the word niggard, meaning a miser or stingy person. The word is Norse/Old English in origin and does not relate to the words negro or other words meaning black of Latin origin.
Admittedly, much of the confusion may have come from people trying to veil their use of the word by replacing it with another, similar sounding word.
In response to the question: Are Tays in Hanoi different to Tays in Europe?...
Posted Sunday December 6th, 2009.
Have you tried the massive pharmaceutical market on Ngoc Khanh St? It's slightly nearer the Giang Vo end than the Kim Ma end. Might be worth a shot as I've heard from a couple of people that they've been able to find stuff there that they couldn't elsewhere.
In response to the question: Hi, I take finesteride (aka Propecia) for my hair. Sometimes it's under the brand name "Proscar" or Unibald. Pharmacies often sell it in HCMC, but...
Posted Monday December 7th, 2009.
The Chinese restaurant at the Daewoo. Hands down the best I've been to here.
In response to the question: Does anywhere know of a decent Chinese place for yum cha aka dim sum??? I am craving a hit from the trolleys!...
Posted Monday December 7th, 2009.
Cole and Mason make very good pepper grinders, I've never seen them here though. The key is to make sure that the grinding mechanism is steel (definitely not plastic - this is for salt).
I've resorted to the less elegant but just as effective solution of a pestle and mortar.
In response to the question: where can I buy a pepper grinder?...
Posted Monday December 7th, 2009.
Yes - I understand that steel is not the be all and end all of pepper grinders, but it's definitely necessary. I've only ever had good experiences with the brand I recommended.
In response to the question: where can I buy a pepper grinder?...
Posted Monday December 7th, 2009.
suddenpaws - I have temporary residency. It was sorted out through my employer very easily. You need to have a 3 year contract + work permit, police confirmation of your address, and a couple of photos.
I'm told that in Hanoi the requirement is for a 3 year contract/work permit, but that this requirement varies in other parts of the country.
In response to the question: Anyone got the 411 about some new law that says you can't buy a B3 Visa anymore at a travel agent and that it has to be sponsored by a 'real' business...
Posted Monday December 7th, 2009.
Grant - the requirement in practice (whether this is the law or not) is what I've stated above. I provided what I was asked for and I got the temporary residence card.
It's a temorary residence card and I'm not married to a Vietnamese national so it's not relevant in the other thread. This is purely as a means of not having to renew a visa every x months.
In response to the question: Anyone got the 411 about some new law that says you can't buy a B3 Visa anymore at a travel agent and that it has to be sponsored by a 'real' business...
Posted Tuesday December 8th, 2009.
This is what it states in Grant's link in the other thread:
Article 15.-
1. Foreigners may temporarily reside in Vietnam in accordance with the registered purposes, duration and addresses.
2. The temporary residence certificates shall be granted by the competent exit and entry management agencies of the Ministry of Public Security to foreigners at Vietnam�s international border gates. The permitted temporary residence duration is compatible to the valid duration of visa.
The already granted temporary residence certificates may be cancelled or cut short in terms of their valid duration in cases where the certificate grantees breach Vietnamese laws or have their temporary residence contrary to the registered purposes.
Foreigners residing temporarily shall have to declare and report their temporary residence to the competent exit and entry management agencies of the Ministry of Public Security; if requesting the granting, supplement or amendment of visas, extension of temporary residence or changes in the registered purposes of their temporary residence, they shall have to fill in the procedures therefor at the exit and entry management agencies of the Ministry of Public Security.
3. Foreigners who temporarily reside for 1 year or more shall be granted the temporary residence cards by the competent exit and entry management agencies of the Ministry of Public Security. The temporary residence cards shall be valid for between 1 and 3 years. The temporary residence card bearers shall be exempt from visas upon their entry and exit during the valid duration of the cards.
4. Foreigners who enjoy diplomatic or consular privileges and immunities shall fill in the procedures for granting, supplementing or amending visas, extending temporary residence and/or granting temporary residence cards at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs.
5. The consideration, granting, supplement or amendment of visas, the granting of temporary residence cards or the extension of temporary residence shall be effected within no more than 5 working days after the receipt of valid dossiers.
In response to the question: Anyone got the 411 about some new law that says you can't buy a B3 Visa anymore at a travel agent and that it has to be sponsored by a 'real' business...
Posted Tuesday December 8th, 2009.
Now, I read "in accordance with the registered purposes" as meaning that if you are employed, you must have the official paperwork required (Work Permit).
Point 3 seems to suggest that a temporary residence card is available to all foreigners who reside for a minimum of one year (again, fulfilling the above conditions), but in Hanoi I'm told that this is not the case in practice. It certainly wasn't in my experience. In any case it lasts for a maximum of 3 years, same as the work permit.
In response to the question: Anyone got the 411 about some new law that says you can't buy a B3 Visa anymore at a travel agent and that it has to be sponsored by a 'real' business...
Posted Wednesday December 9th, 2009.
It's time - just had my first Banh Chuoi of the season - Nguyen Khuyen St near Van Mieu St. Delicious. Get 'em in OP if your still here.
In response to the question: Does anyone know where I can find some chuoi chien (deep fried bananas) in Ha Noi? Thanks!!...
Posted Monday December 14th, 2009.
Tried to do the same online with Mobifone but it doesn't work :(
In response to the question: Heard an interesting snippet at lunch. We all (and this may be just those of us who use card top ups for our phones) have to register our cell phone n...
Posted Tuesday December 15th, 2009.
I feel an urge to change my avatar now.
In response to the question: Feeling a bit jealous today. I would like something next to my name too. Is "Avatar MOD", "Meet Up MOD" or "NH Hottie MOD" taken yet???...
Posted Tuesday December 15th, 2009.
pippa - quaking in my boots. I can change it again if it's not to your liking.
In response to the question: Feeling a bit jealous today. I would like something next to my name too. Is "Avatar MOD", "Meet Up MOD" or "NH Hottie MOD" taken yet???...
Posted Monday December 21st, 2009.
Please clarify the question and repost it.
In response to the question: How to date a guy in one day?...
Posted Wednesday December 23rd, 2009.
I agree with Global_Pathways (despite the misuse of present continuous) ;)
Foreign non-native English speaking teachers who are properly qualified tend to get paid the same in my experience. At least at decent schools they do.
In response to the question: I'm reading this in several job advertisements: Native speaker only: US, UK, passport holders only (this is a requirement for the work permit) Is ...
Posted Thursday December 24th, 2009.
Please keep this discussion on topic.
Personal attacks are neither helpful nor polite.
In response to the question: I'm reading this in several job advertisements: Native speaker only: US, UK, passport holders only (this is a requirement for the work permit) Is ...
Posted Thursday December 24th, 2009.
Responses which do not relate to the question have been removed.
In response to the question: I'm reading this in several job advertisements: Native speaker only: US, UK, passport holders only (this is a requirement for the work permit) Is ...
Posted Friday December 25th, 2009.
Again, the post has been removed and the user in question informed of the reason why.
Thanks to those who are making an effort to keep this thread on track.
In response to the question: I'm reading this in several job advertisements: Native speaker only: US, UK, passport holders only (this is a requirement for the work permit) Is ...
Posted Tuesday December 29th, 2009.
Please add your post to the existing thread on this topic:
http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/en/aska/answers/qid/2583
In response to the question: anybody know up to date info on either: renewing a tourist visa; getting a B3 visa in Hanoi before doing the visa run or getting a B3 visa while out o...
Posted Tuesday December 29th, 2009.
Some banks don't charge you for overseas withdrawals. Nationwide in the UK is one example. You will definitely still get charged by the atm here though.
In response to the question: I just arrived in Hanoi and am trying to withdraw funds to pay my rent deposit. I went to HSBC to withdraw the maximum of 4,800,000 and was hit with a...
Posted Tuesday December 29th, 2009.
I'll delete this thread shortly to avoid duplication. If any posters on this thread want to post their info/queries in the other thread it would be appreciated (thanks Grant).
In response to the question: anybody know up to date info on either: renewing a tourist visa; getting a B3 visa in Hanoi before doing the visa run or getting a B3 visa while out o...
Posted Wednesday December 30th, 2009.
Aside from So Saigon, not really.
There's a website for The Word HCMC. It's not really the same thing as TNH though. It's more listings based, but there are articles, classifieds and a blog. It pretty much represents what's in the magazine.
In response to the question: Is there a site for Ho Chi Minh City city to this one for Ha Noi? Yes, I know they also have So Saigon, but it's not as popular and used as frequently...
Posted Wednesday December 30th, 2009.
Exchanging Dong outside of Vietnam can be done in some places in Hong Kong (if you're going there), but I suspect it would be fairly heavily devalued.
My experience with any foreign currency here is that you have to buy US dollars and then buy whichever currency you need, even at the big international banks.
In response to the question: I'm going up to China by bus for a holiday soon. Does anyone know whether the rates from VND to RMB are the most favorable if I exchange it here in Ha...
Posted Thursday December 31st, 2009.
Just registered mine and my girlfriend's at the Mobifone shop at 34 Dien Bien Phu. As above, it was pretty crowded but the staff were helpful. Took about 20 mins.
To echo and consolidate the above, you need:
-Passport
-SIM card
-5 numbers you have called
There's a form to fill in and sign - this they let me sign for my girlfriend to make things easier.
In response to the question: Heard an interesting snippet at lunch. We all (and this may be just those of us who use card top ups for our phones) have to register our cell phone n...
Posted Thursday December 31st, 2009.
Please keep this discussion on topic. Posts which contain personal attacks and no information related to the topic have been removed.
In response to the question: Hello, The university I work for, Hanoi University of Science, is considering hiring a 3rd party firm to manage it's teachers. If anyone has experie...
Posted Friday January 1st, 2010.
The stuff I can remember at the Press Club was good...
In response to the question: Hi all! Thinking of having something different for December 31st night... So, could you recommend me any spots such as high-end hotels throwing a part...
Posted Saturday January 2nd, 2010.
Louis - I'm afraid that's incorrect. You don't need a degree in Teaching, English, or indeed in Teaching English. Nor do you need 5 years experience.
For details of what's required you will find that this information has already been discussed in the thread below. Some of the technical info might regarding authentication might not be up to date but the basic requirements are the same.
http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/en/aska/answers/qid/790
In response to the question: I'm reading this in several job advertisements: Native speaker only: US, UK, passport holders only (this is a requirement for the work permit) Is ...
Posted Saturday January 2nd, 2010.
A quick search turns up this thread:
http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/en/aska/answers/qid/1883
In response to the question: Where can I buy posh designer handbags (Bally, Hermés etc.) I am looking for either good (no cheap plastic subs for leather) fakes or those made for ...
Posted Sunday January 3rd, 2010.
Another site of interest may be:
The Ho Chi Minh City Section is much more active than the Hanoi Section, but there is a thread dedicated to blacklisting dishonest schools.
Otherwise, actually reviewing them on this site would be a good thing to do. They are listed and there is one review. Other people seem to have had experiences there, judging by the comments in this thread, so why don't you add your reviews?
In response to the question: Hello, The university I work for, Hanoi University of Science, is considering hiring a 3rd party firm to manage it's teachers. If anyone has experie...
Posted Sunday January 3rd, 2010.
Global_Pathways - it isn't that some schools can't help, it's that they won't help.
In response to the question: I'm reading this in several job advertisements: Native speaker only: US, UK, passport holders only (this is a requirement for the work permit) Is ...
Posted Monday January 4th, 2010.
I've met and chatted to the same woman as dawnation and TSC. I was taking photos for a portrait project that I never finished, and chatted to her for a while, but could never really get her full story. We did arrange a deal over mangoes and a photo though, i.e. I could take portrait if I bought an (slightly) overpriced mango.
She (I won't mention her name)seems at least to be doing it out of necessity.
The 'students' who work for the 'Red Cross' (mentioned by TSC) are another story. I have developed a number of tactics for these jokers. I often ask them if they know my friend who works for the Red Cross and ask for their name. Sometimes I counter the opening gambit "Excuse me, I'm a student and I'm collecting for the Red Cross" with a direct "No, you are not." That usually has them hopping back on the motorbike looking slightly embarrassed. I often feel like telling tourists that I seem them with not to donate to their 'cause', but feel it might be too antagonistic.
In response to the question: Today when I was eating lunch in KFC (an occasional guilty pleasure), a rather chubby guy came up to me and my partner's table dressed in a clean spor...
Posted Tuesday January 5th, 2010.
I bought tickets for the Asian Cup 2007 matches played at My Dinh from the Vietnam Football Federation offices at Ly Van Phuc (otherwise know as bbq chicken st off Nguyen Thai Hoc st). I don't know whether you still can do this or if that's only for tournaments but it might be worth a try.
Address - 18 Ly Van Phuc str.
Website here: VFF
In response to the question: On Jan 17th there is a football match at My Dinh Stadium between Vietnam and China. Does anyone know how to get tickets? I am thinking of making the t...
Posted Tuesday January 5th, 2010.
Indeed. Covered many times before - this thread will be deleted shortly.
In response to the question: has anyone bought a new motorbike in their name in Vietnam or someone that knows the procedure for it. I have a Vietnamese driver's licence, 3 year w...
Posted Tuesday January 5th, 2010.
kpossum - you need to go to actual offices/shops of the phone company, not mobile phone sellers.
I got a circular today saying that mobifone was the only one which was being threatened with disconnection after today, but I'm unclear where this information came from.
In response to the question: Heard an interesting snippet at lunch. We all (and this may be just those of us who use card top ups for our phones) have to register our cell phone n...
Posted Tuesday January 5th, 2010.
Pretty sure I saw one at Techland too.
http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/en/venue/show/4164/Techland
In response to the question: Hello pepz... where can I buy Nintendo Wii Console here in Hanoi, Vietnam? Information is highly appreciated.. Cheers! ...
Posted Tuesday January 5th, 2010.
In terms of delivery options, my vote would be for The Cart
Or failing that Oregano, though their baguette sandwiches are all a bit similar. I am kind of hooked on the Bacon and Brie one.
Both are around the 50,000 VND mark.
If you want a culture clash Western/Vietnamese sandwich, then I'd suggest Banh My Bit Tet Dinh Liet
In response to the question: which place got the best sandwiches ..western style , like subs , or wraps etc. place tell me also about the prices if they are ok. thanks you people ...
Posted Tuesday January 5th, 2010.
One of my colleagues asked their students today and was told that it had been announced in the newspapers, on the TV and on the internet (though obviously not in English). I wasn't sure that is was really going to happen until I saw the number of people in the Mobifone office when I went to register.
I think not risking it is the best option.
In response to the question: Heard an interesting snippet at lunch. We all (and this may be just those of us who use card top ups for our phones) have to register our cell phone n...
Posted Wednesday January 6th, 2010.
IanH - this post should be in the thread regarding work permits, not visa prices.
In response to the question: Hi, Anyone out there been out and about shopping for visa extension quotes recently? Got one saturday from tropical tours for a six month multiple ...
Posted Wednesday January 6th, 2010.
Ah right, I understand why you posted it here now. If you could repost it in the WP thread I think it would be more useful for others in the future.
Thanks.
In response to the question: Hi, Anyone out there been out and about shopping for visa extension quotes recently? Got one saturday from tropical tours for a six month multiple ...
Posted Thursday January 7th, 2010.
My parents came here for a visit a couple of months ago and did a cooking course at the Hanoi Cooking Centre. They loved it, even my dad who is not the greatest gift to the kitchen...
The reviews from the New Hanoians seem pretty favourable too.
In response to the question: Hello, is there a Cooking School here in Hanoi that offers a short course and can provide a certificate after completing a required number of hours? ...
Posted Thursday January 7th, 2010.
This answer is from NickinNam, posted from a deleted duplicate thread:
Leave. Make friends with a Vietnamese person and travel to their village with them for a few days. Put small quantities of money in little red envelopes and give them to everyone you meet along the way.
That's what I did last year. One of the young guys who works at my local bia hoi, who speaks a little English, invited me to his village. We hopped on my motorbike and drove the 70K or so west and spent 3 days drinking and eating and laughing and exploring around.
In my mind, the only other option is to stock up on food and beer and movies and stay home. Nothing is happening in town.
It's worse than Paris in August.
Make a friend. Get out of town.
If you are friendless, call (Ms Giang-0985 246 762) or PM her here at giang_hoang
She is organizing a trip for the friendless to Nam Dinh province (about 140 km from Ha Noi) where is very quiet with the bendy village roads and small ponds. She promises that you will have a chance to mingle with the local people to see how they prepare for Tet days, take part in markets, eat dinner with local families and experience the full-on country Tet tradition.
So, in short, get out to the country side, or stock up on beer and movies.
In response to the question: Have friends coming to visite over Tet. Anything for them to do or see in or around Hanoi? ...
Posted Saturday January 9th, 2010.
I have bought it here on more than one occasion. Lots of little local pharmacies have it. Failing that, I'd try the big pharmacies on Hai Ba Trung St (somewhere between Hanoi Towers and Ba Trieu St, can't remember exactly). They seem to have pretty much anything in my experience.
In response to the question: I'm looking for Nizoral Shampoo. It's a dandruff shampoo, that I use once a week. In HCMC it was easily available, but no luck in Hanoi, and yes, I'...
Posted Monday January 11th, 2010.
should anyone wish to review them.
In response to the question: Has anyone worked for APEC English Center on Tran Quoc Hoan street? If so can you tell me a little bit about them? Even hear say is welcome here....
Posted Monday January 11th, 2010.
http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/en/venue/show/1251/Hung-Long-Minimart-Xuan-Dieu
Check the map on the right side. There's a photo of the shopfront too so you know what to look for.
In response to the question: For the past six months, I've been purchasing a German brand of muesli cereal called HAHNE which was fruit sweetened, non-sugary and VERY HIGH rough...
Posted Friday January 15th, 2010.
Onemore - it's not about questions which some might find stupid, unnecessary or a waste of time. It's about questions/posts which don't fit within the Terms of Service or the User Guide.
Most of the censorship, as you see it, has been to keep things clear and easy for other users and to maintain the function for which this site was created (see links below). Certainly most of the stuff I've removed has been completely irrelevant, a personal attack on another user, or an advertisement.
I understand your point about wanting a completely free forum where anything goes, but this isn't it, and never has been.
In response to the question: ....that seems to randomly happen when you ask a perfectly valid question about etiquette on here. Speaking of censorship what about the guy who pos...
Posted Saturday January 16th, 2010.
My understanding is that no one has access to this except embassy staff for countries which are prepared to stump up for it.
(Correct me if I'm wrong but) Ordinary citizens don't merit the vaccine apparently.
In response to the question: Are there any clinics in Hanoi that have the H1N1 vaccine? If so, what type is it, and what does it cost? TIA...
Posted Saturday January 16th, 2010.
That's not entirely correct Nick. I've seen reports about a firm that bought Polaroid's equipment and factory and announced that they would be manufacturing instant cameras, and Fujifilm makes still makes instant film.
In Hanoi though? Nope. You'll have to buy elsewhere and bring it here.
In response to the question: Does anyone know where polaroid cameras (and film) can be found in Hanoi? Thanks!...
Posted Saturday January 16th, 2010.
Yeah, I heard that too, but I've hunted for more info and can't find any, even on the Polaroid website.
In response to the question: Does anyone know where polaroid cameras (and film) can be found in Hanoi? Thanks!...
Posted Tuesday January 19th, 2010.
Sorry Nick, but your estimation of a lethal dose for acetaminophen (paracetamol) is wildly inaccurate. 1000mg is the recommended dose for adults, most tablets here are 500mg.
In response to the question: I know you can get codeine-based painkillers which are 4x as strong as the strongest over-the-counter equivalent you can get in Australia. A friend to...
Posted Tuesday January 19th, 2010.
Perhaps Asia Wings should be entered on the site (there's currently no listing for them), and this information mentioned there. You could review them too, as you seem to have had good experiences with them.
In response to the question: Hi all, I got this from Asia Wings in Hanoi Towers, they've been a pretty good, flexible and reliable agency for me since being in Hanoi and I wanted...
Posted Wednesday January 20th, 2010.
NIN : French Hospital - reliable? Hmm.
Doxycycline is available over the counter here, but as with any other medication, check the dates and seals.
In response to the question: Hi, I've seen the other posts, but no one actually answered the question of whether one can get preventative meds over the counter here. Anyone know...
Posted Saturday January 23rd, 2010.
Techland has PS3 controllers, or can get them.
http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/en/venue/show/4164/Techland
In response to the question: I am trying to find old game controllers for game cube or PlayStation. Does anyone know where to find them? ...
Posted Saturday January 23rd, 2010.
Useful info on silica gel in these threads:
http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/en/aska/answers/qid/642
http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/en/aska/answers/qid/2796
In response to the question: does anyone have any ideas about how to keep clothes etc from getting so damp?? and becoming moldy? or where to get SILICA gel from?? Help...everyt...
Posted Sunday January 24th, 2010.
A search for Visa on this site turns a lot of threads with info on visas - not least up the useful thread below, which contains the most up to date answers:
http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/en/aska/answers/qid/2583
Please post your question in that thread. If information on visas can be kept in the same thread, it makes it easier for other users to find current answers to their queries.
In response to the question: I have a problem with the visa, they want me to leave the country every 3 months to get a visa. Do you know any way to not have to leave the country e...
Posted Monday January 25th, 2010.
I like:
The Sushi Tokyo for (pricey) sashimi / sushi
Tokyo Kitchen for lunch sets and takoyaki
Kamon for okonomiyaki.
As you seem to have been to a number of places yourself, can I suggest that you review them on this site so that others can benefit from your experiences?
In response to the question: Hi everyone! After living in Hanoi for almost 3 months, I am dying for some REAL Japanese food (sushi-grade sashimi in particular); a large dose of m...
Posted Monday January 25th, 2010.
Grant - was that a typo or intentional?
Perhaps there should be a "missed connections" sections in the personals...
In response to the question: I was in Victory DVD shop on hang bac today (Monday) at around 4 when a rather attractive young western girl breezed through on a clearly rushed quest...
Posted Wednesday January 27th, 2010.
I used to charge $25 per hour about 3 years ago. I haven't taught privately since then, but I expect the rate has increased significantly and would vary depending on how specialised the lessons need to be.
In response to the question: A Vietnamese coworker has asked me if I could tutor her 15 year old daughter and two friends in preparation for a scholarship exam. She asked for my d...
Posted Monday February 1st, 2010.
I'll enter the review shortly, but in the meantime I can recommend the Duck at Ming Palace (2nd floor of the Sofitel Place). $28 for two courses.
In response to the question: Every once in a while I want some good Peking Duck... Can anyone recommend a good Chinese Restaurant that I should try? I did search for Chinese Foo...
Posted Monday February 1st, 2010.
$285?! Wow.
The official fee is still (I believe) $50 for the visa and $10 for the stamp. You'd expect to pay a fair bit extra but more than 3 times the official price?
In response to the question: Seeing as though the original visas thread (found @ http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/en/aska/answers/qid/2583) is now defunct - according to the new site p...
Posted Tuesday February 2nd, 2010.
The minimum charge for certifying a copy of a document is 800,000 VND. I had to do this with a copy of my passport a couple of years ago, and colleague more recently had to do this with another document - it's expensive as the charges are the same as in the UK.
Link with cost of services here:
http://ukinvietnam.fco.gov.uk/en/help-for-british-nationals/living-in-vietnam/our-service-fees
In response to the question: Hi, does anyone know how much the British embassy charges for making a certified copy of a diploma? I wanted to go there today, but am not sure if I'v...
Posted Wednesday February 3rd, 2010.
TSC - on the corner of Chau Long St and Nguyen Truong To, to the south of Chau Long Market, there are a couple of shops which grind flour. I think you can take whatever grain you like and have it ground there, and I'm sure they'd know what to do with rice.
In response to the question: Rice has an important place in Vietnamese Culture and is used not only as a grain but also as a primary ingredient in subsequent base ingredient produ...
Posted Wednesday February 3rd, 2010.
Could you put this in the wanted section of classifieds please?
Thanks.
In response to the question: I am unforunate enough to still own a powerbook g4 which is no longer supported by apple. I am in need of the power cord that goes with it. If any on...
Posted Thursday February 4th, 2010.
Have you tried La Verticale?
Bleu de Thuy also gets a lot of praise, though I've never been. I tried to go on Saturday lunchtime but it appeared to be shut.
In response to the question: You know when you have a really awesome meal prepared by a great chef? The flavours and textures are many and complex, and you can't help but wonder '...
Posted Thursday February 4th, 2010.
This thread has now veered away from the actual question completely. Start a discussion thread if you want to continue with this topic.
In response to the question: Can anyone advise what is the standard TET $$ bonus for maid and driver. They are quite well paid as english speaking... Cheers...
Posted Saturday February 6th, 2010.
Moved to the Bread & Milk section for you.
In response to the question: Anyone know of a Khmer restaurant / dishes to be had around town. We're particularly hankering for the morning rice gruel - burbur, or congee - needs ...
Posted Tuesday February 23rd, 2010.
Here's an alternative method if you don't have a sugar thermometer:
In response to the question: I want to make candy or caramel mini-apples for daughter's bday. So I either need a candy thermometer (no idea what that is) OR I need access to some...
Posted Tuesday February 23rd, 2010.
vic05 - you don't even need the water to make caramel.
In response to the question: I want to make candy or caramel mini-apples for daughter's bday. So I either need a candy thermometer (no idea what that is) OR I need access to some...
Posted Tuesday February 23rd, 2010.
Hmm. The mustang/google thing. You can't reasonably be making an argument based on this can you? Just because there are different things that share the same name is not an argument against a search engine.
If I went to a library and looked for the Mustang section I would very likely be out of luck. If I then asked the librarian where I would find a book about mustang(s), she may think I was talking about the car, motorcycles, horses, guitars, a city, or even the kingdom you mention. The addition of a second word is of use here, as I'm sure the librarian would agree when trying to assist me.
The addition of the following words make for more satisfying Googling:
In this situation it's more a case of "if you don't know how to look for it, you won't find it", rather than "if you can't Google it, it doesn't exist".
In response to the question: It strikes me that our world is falling into two divisions – those with access to immense power of the internet and those that do not. Can it be tha...
Posted Wednesday February 24th, 2010.
pinto,
I took the following statements in your post to refer to the ability to access the information:
Consider the internet, “Google”, “Wakipedia”, ”Bing”, et al – is this the sum total and final arbitrator of all intellectual knowledge? Ipso facto, if you cannot “google it”, it does not exist?
and
Should you go to any decent library you will find reference to a now defunct motorbike company that handmade classic bikes for over forty years – you will not find it with a “google” – a small actuality lost in cyberspace.
Or, perhaps you ”goggle” “Mustang”, looking for a reference to a Himalayan mountain kingdom you will be bombarded with sites referring to a now defunct motor vehicle symbolic of all the excesses of the DSA in the sixties. Should you persevere though all these pages of excrement you may just find that this never-never-land did actually exist – unless you give up after page three - a small space lost in cyberspace!
None of this refers to the veracity of the information present.
In response to the question: It strikes me that our world is falling into two divisions – those with access to immense power of the internet and those that do not. Can it be tha...
Posted Sunday February 28th, 2010.
The pastry on the bottom must be an Aussie adaptation. There's never pastry in the British version.
Also, it's usually called cottage pie when made with beef, and shepherd's pie when made with lamb.
In response to the question: Hey, I am scouring Hanoi for shepherd pie, either in a restaurant/bakery/deli thing or the frozen one in a supermarket but have no luck. Does anyone k...
Posted Monday March 1st, 2010.
Why start a discussion if you are not going to listen to other people opinions? Can we try and keep this discussion civilised please.
I think most would accept that there are issues in the TEFL industry, but why not at least try and read other people's experiences without completely deriding them. I understand you've had a bad experience, and you are certainly not alone in this, but you can't apply your experience to the entire industry.
In response to the question: Esl teachers of Hanoi. Have your say! Whats your experience of the reality of esl teaching? Personally I did it for six months and that was more than ...
Posted Monday March 1st, 2010.
Not sure if it's still there, but La Fenetre Soleil is a nice, bohemian feel cafe similar to (but much, much better than) Puku. When I lived there it was on the corner of Le Thanh Ton and (maybe) Nam Ky Khoi Nghia. The entrance was through small alley and stairs and the actual place was upstairs (in fact, very similar to Puku!).
In response to the question: Does anybody know of a cafe like Puku or Mocha in Ho Chi Minh City? I've been here a couple of days, and can't seem to find anywhere besides Highland'...
Posted Monday March 1st, 2010.
Just found details - entrance on 125 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia St.
In response to the question: Does anybody know of a cafe like Puku or Mocha in Ho Chi Minh City? I've been here a couple of days, and can't seem to find anywhere besides Highland'...
Posted Wednesday March 3rd, 2010.
La Fenetre Soleil - 125 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia St.
In response to the question: Hey everybody, I just arrived in Saigon (used to live in Hanoi), I'm in search of a chill cafe where I can get some work done (similar to Puku or Moc...
Posted Wednesday March 3rd, 2010.
I know that I work for a professional honest organisation with teachers who are genuinely committed to ensuring that their students get what they need. Teachers are paid well, and have good benefits. I'm not saying that it's a teaching utopia, but it's a very long way from the sort of thing which has been described above.
It would be foolish to defend the entire industry, and I doubt that anyone here would, but to tar every organisation with the same brush is an error. I've worked in a disorganised school and I've worked with teachers whose motivation was poor. However these instances have not been the bulk of my experience.
I don't think it's possible to make a sound judgement based on a six month stint in the job, nor are one sided, unbalanced articles in The Telegraph particularly convincing.
I don't expect to convince Journeyman of any of this, however, as it's pretty clear that his mind is made up on this issue.
In response to the question: Esl teachers of Hanoi. Have your say! Whats your experience of the reality of esl teaching? Personally I did it for six months and that was more than ...
Posted Thursday March 4th, 2010.
You probably want to avoid Hydrogen balloons...
In response to the question: Recently I have found out that many balloon vendors use hydrogen or a mix instead of helium. I have a balloon contact, but how can I make sure they a...
Posted Friday March 5th, 2010.
So the discussion is over then. Good.
In response to the question: Esl teachers of Hanoi. Have your say! Whats your experience of the reality of esl teaching? Personally I did it for six months and that was more than ...
Posted Friday March 5th, 2010.
I've seen bottled French cider in Red Apron, but it was a while ago.
In response to the question: Anyone know where to buy some cider in Hanoi? I'm looking for alcoholic bottled cider like we can find in the West. Like Magners, Bullmers, Woodpecker...
Posted Friday March 12th, 2010.
Have you tried the fair trade shop on Xuan Dieu? I may be wrong but I think I remember seeing something along those lines there.
100A Xuan Dieu.
In response to the question: My stash of organic olive oil soap has run out. I'm looking for a place in Hanoi that sells organic soap and perhaps shampoo (doesn't have to be made ...
Posted Friday March 12th, 2010.
We've got cork boards at work, so they must be available somewhere. I'll ask around and update the thread if I find out something useful.
In response to the question: Hi! Does anyone know where I can find a cork board, or at least a large piece of cork that I can frame?? And in case anyone knows the Vietnamese wor...
Posted Sunday March 14th, 2010.
This is a very old question, so I imagine the OP has found what he or she was looking for, but I thought I'd mention that RMIT will not be at that location much longer. It is in the process of moving to 521 Kim Ma St (not very far away from the original location.
In response to the question: How far is this address from the old town? RMIT 2/2C Van Phuc Kim Ma Road Are there any hotels or hostels near this university? Cheers...