I’ve been in Hanoi for 2 years, with frequent trips down to Saigon and Bangkok. I would say it is a well-worth 2 years living in this city. I thought I knew a lot during that time, but realized there are still a lot more to learn. Integration into Hanoi life and its residents is a long process. Find a few good local friends you can count on and let them introduce to you the city and its residents.

As said I like Hanoi for its picturesque lakes. quaint ancient streets and still traditional way of life. That is the first attraction for me when I started coming down here in 2001. But when you’re really in it, you’ll learn that it’s the people that give it its character.

Just 3 days ago, I had a great time with my Hanoian friend going around the city and visiting some of the famous artists here — some from families who have been living in Hanoi for ages. This is the reason why Hanoi is so quaint — the real soul is its people who give the spice to the buildings and the lakes and the way of life here. I will write about that experience – finally a positive experience – in my blog here and managed to snap a couple of interesting pics too.

How long do I see living in Hanoi? That is easy to answer. I’m on my way to Saigon actually for another adventure down south (perhaps before you arrive here). Perhaps there is something more to discover down there Await the launch of my other blog then – Fabulousinsaigon – soon!

Great to have you in Vietnam. Happy New Year! And do keep in touch.

Fabulousinhanoi

What a very interesting and timely comment I just had a similar topic of conversation with a friend who used to work in Dubai, came here to work for a couple of months — and then went back there to work again.
My friend said that he was looking more for a place that was more “cosmopolitan”.

Well it actually depends on what you are expecting to find here Nathalie, as well as what you would like to contribute. Some people find Hanoi “too quiet”; others find it very relaxing and laid-back compared to the busy city life that they had before.

In my case, I was tired of big city living, having lived in Singapore, Bangkok and Manila for some time. So if you go for the quiet life, like looking at quaint ancient streets and picturesque lakes, then maybe Hanoi is for you. If you like the nightlife, like to party a lot, or even go crazy over discount sales and midnight mall sales, then perhaps Saigon would be better suited for you to migrate — or even Bangkok!

Anyway, hope to be in contact with you in the future. Have a great Chinese New Year holiday — and yes, welcome to Vietnam!

Yes, it’s a bit quiet here in Hanoi during the long TET holiday. This year TET starts on January 26 and supposedly ends on February 1. But in reality, the Vietnamese like to start going home to the provinces the week before TET holiday — and it can lead up to 1-2 weeks into February.

For stores being open here, I’m afraid majority of them will be closed. Perhaps for a few, like the silk and curio shops along the Old Quarter, there might still be some open. Most restaurants will be closed, except for those servicing foreigners.

You can try coming in on a later date – like Feb 2. By then, the shops will be open. Anyway, have a great TET holiday/Chinese New Year celebration.

Fabulous in Hanoi