de2facon's profile
de2facon's Posts
22 reviews or comments posted; 5 questions asked; 63 answers given.
Reviews / Comments (22) see all
Regarding transport to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.
Unless you are traveling by bus with a tour group or familiar with the city public transport system, your best bet for getting to the museum is to hop a cab. I was able to hail a very reliable taxi near Lenin Park for about 7/8 US dollars round trip including wait time.
In the event that some folks may not know the English name for the museum or your spoken Vietnamese is limited, it helps to give your driver the name of the museum in writing ( Bao Tang Dan Toc Hoc Viet Nam) for easy identification.
A bit of a hike from town but well worth the visit.
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Maihanoi's review of the Melia is quite accurate.
The hotel offers spacious
rooms, a comfortable atmosphere and one of the best breakfast buffets around. But it is the genuine warmth and enthusiasm of the staff that makes for a memorable stay.
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Thuy Ta Cafe is a very enjoyable place to stop for some coffee and enjoy an excellent view of the lake. Try to get there early morning and watch the city awaken through all of the open doors and windows of the cafe. A bit pricey, but not too...
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A pretty good place for a quick meal. The choices are plentiful and the prices acceptable. If I remember correctly, you can get western-style fries ( Khoai Tay ) there as well as Vietnamese dishes.
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Excellent information, Jestert79.
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Questions (5)
Has anyone visited the Ecole Francaise d'Extreme Oriens (EFEO)library at 54 Ngo Ha Hoi?
I'm interested in stopping by on a return visit to Ha Noi later this year and will be grateful for any information or comments.
There is a short article about the EFEO on Vietnam Pathfinder website.
Thanks in advance.
Does anyone know if the restaurant
' Le Splendide' located at 44 Ngo Quyen had a different name at one time?
I seem to recall eating at a place similar to the one featured in the NH pictures but can't be sure. It is possible that I'm confusing the place with President's Garden Restaurant. At any rate, even if I could give some details on the dining experience they would be rather dated.
Thanks for any assistance.
Came across an online keyboard at www.incks.com/en/vietnamese.html.
As a student of the language, it looked pretty good to me. Recommend it to NH readers with the proviso that I'm not fluent or a computer whiz. Perhaps a native speaker teaching at one of the language training centers in town can comment.
The recent New Hanoian review on the Real Darling Cafe Guesthouse prompted my question.
Can anyone shed some light on the tale of which came first, the Real Darling Cafe or the Old Darling Cafe?
Several years back, I heard a story that both Darling Cafes claim the mantle of being 'The'
(original) Darling Cafe. Apparently, the question took on enough
legendary overtones that it merited a brief reference on a leading travel video.
I've never been able to pin down anything further on this interesting bit of Ha Noi hotel history. Just wondering if one of the readers could comment or provide an answer.
Thanks in advance.
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 Pho. But provincial variations, e.g., Nam Dinh Pho sounds like an interesting topic to learn more about.
Perhaps a TNH member of Friends of Vietnam Heritage or Vietnam Culture and Life can fill us in.
Thanks.
Answers (63)
Posted Saturday September 9th, 2006.
Try the swimming pool at Melia Hotel on Ly
Thuong Kiet ( about one block south(?) of Hai Ba Trung Street. The pools are a nice size and the setting quiet. I don't recall if the swimming area is open to the general public, but it is worth an inquiry at the lobby desk.
In response to the question: Does anyone know of a swimming pool in the Hai Ba Trung area (other than the Army Hotel pool) that is open to the public and fairly cheap? Thanks...
Posted Monday February 19th, 2007.
Try tribal Pan Flute at 42 Hang Bac in the Old Quarter.
The shop is a treasure trove of unique items from Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups.Moreover, the
store's owner, Ms. Hoa, is a true delight and extremely helpful to browsers and customers alike.
In response to the question: Anyone know good places to buy ethnic minority textiles/fabrics in Hanoi, especially places that might have fair trade/sustainable development fabrics...
Posted Saturday March 31st, 2007.
The Green Park Hotel is located right on the edge of the Park. While I've not stayed at the
hotel, ( visited the bar/coffee shop twice),
the venue is well regarded by many travelers seeking lodging near to the Park.
Considering the number in your group ( 7 ) and the duration of your stay ( one month ), perhaps a suitable price can be negotiated with hotel management.
In response to the question: Hello, A group of us (7) will be in Hanoi for approximately a month to receive extra training in Trad Medicine. We were wondering if you could recomm...
Posted Monday April 9th, 2007.
Your best bet is to head over to Cho Benh Tanh or Cho Dan Sinh in HCMC.
Though the items you are looking for may be available in Ha Noi, I've never seen them displayed or offered for sale by a street vendor here.
How to tell a copy from the real McCoy?....Tough one. No doubt there are some experts at places like Zippo ( famous lighter manufacturer) who know. Nevertheless,
you may find a gem among the choices at the markets down south.
Good luck!
In response to the question: Hi, I have been sent on a mission by a friend back home to buy him a REAL cigarette lighter as used by the american GI's during the war. Can any...
Posted Tuesday April 24th, 2007.
Contact Regus in Ha Noi or HCMC. The company provides a variety of outsourced office space and
business services.
I have used Regus overseas ( outside Asia ) and have been very pleased with the quality of venue and customer service.
In response to the question: Is anyone aware of a budget service that offers hotdesks for consultants?...
Posted Wednesday May 9th, 2007.
The folks at one of the Highway 4 locations or Minsk Club Hanoi may be able to point you in the right direction. Even if you are not in the market for a Minsk, I'm guessing that you may get some information from fellow riders on tracking down suitable wheels.
Keep on rollin'!
In response to the question: Is it possible to buy a real motobike( 250 -> 500cc and not an oldies) in Hanoi? And is it more expensive than abroad (because of tax)? And where?...
Posted Thursday May 10th, 2007.
1. Any thoughts as to a suitable venue?
Perhaps we can write a group review of the
place for NH.
In response to the question: (sorry for the double post all) What you lads and lasses think of getting us weirdos together for a drink sometime. Great to meet and put a face to t...
Posted Thursday May 10th, 2007.
I vote barcrawl. Reviews of places visited
optional...co duoc khong?
In response to the question: (sorry for the double post all) What you lads and lasses think of getting us weirdos together for a drink sometime. Great to meet and put a face to t...
Posted Monday May 21st, 2007.
Ditto.
On further reflection, a bia hoi now gets my vote over a barcrawl...maybe even a bia hoi crawl?
Also, if it turns out to be an event worth repeating, try for an additional get together in the
early fall. I'm scheduled to be north at that time and look forward to meeting some of the NH crew.
Cam on cac ban.
In response to the question: (sorry for the double post all) What you lads and lasses think of getting us weirdos together for a drink sometime. Great to meet and put a face to t...
Posted Monday May 21st, 2007.
A while back, I heard several expats mention Crown Moving as being a good bet but I can't speak to it myself. I think the company has an office in Ha Noi and main location in HCMC.
In response to the question: I'm leaving Hanoi in a month's time after 7 months here and have accumulated "stuff" that I want to ship home to Australia. Can anyone recommend a shi...
Posted Wednesday May 23rd, 2007.
While I can't point to horse riding area in Ha Noi,
Cat Ba Island ( Ha Long Bay region) is known to have some horse back riding activities available.
In response to the question: Hi, Can anyone advise of a horse riding centre where we could do riding lessons in or around Hanoi...
Posted Friday June 15th, 2007.
Hanoi Rob wrote: " This kinda depends on
what you mean by...fun and...good music".
Agreed. The real test is one's personal preference. As for myself, I find that many of the major hotel bars/lounges (Metropole, Opera, Daewoo, Melia) become an oasis tranquility in the late afternoons or evenings. Not all places have dancing or music at all times, however. Further, though the prices for the hotel lounges can be stratospheric, many will allow you to nurse a drink or two. Best of luck with your search.
In response to the question: Is there any actual place you can just go and have a pure fun of having a drink, listening to good music and dancing in Hanoi???...
Posted Friday July 6th, 2007.
As a popcorn lover, just taking a guess here...
Make an offer for some popping kernels from one of the roasted corn vendors you sometimes see here and there in the city.
For a more definite source of old fashioned popcorn kernels, inquire at one of the bars frequented by North Americans.
In response to the question: Where in Hanoi can I buy unpopped popcorn? Not microwave popcorn but that old fashion kind that you put into a pot with a little oil, add butter and ...
Posted Wednesday July 11th, 2007.
Not an expert by any means but based on the prices quoted, probably not the real article.
Genuine vintage premium watches can still go for a pretty penny irrespective of overall condition.
At first glance, many of the copies made in various places overseas are quite convincing and have developed a certain prestige in their own right. On closer inspection, however, the workmanship and materials for production are very far from the real items. Still, many buy the watches for fun rather than as a reliable timepiece.
In short, you sort of get what you pay for.
In response to the question: Hi All, Just arrived in Hanoi and I'm thinking of buying a copy watch from one of the Watch shops in the old quarter. Can anyone fill me in on the goi...
Posted Saturday July 21st, 2007.
If you have a flair for writing, photography or computers, you may find creating printed or online brochures to be a marketable skill.
People with a strong attention to detail are often drawn to the operations end of the business in areas such as ticketing and itinerary planning.
Certain types of tour leading require a background in culture, history and knowledge of key tourist sites including
hotels and restaurants. While not always a must, some grasp of basic conversational items like shopping, ordering food, asking directions, etc., can be a decided plus.
It will help to take stock of the skills you may bring to the table before marketing to a potential employer here. Also, whether you teach or work in tourism, be sure to obtain the appropriate work documents while employed.
I realize this is a very general response to your inquiry but the travel industry cover a pretty broad spectrum of work activities.
Best of luck with your job search.
In response to the question: I need to find a job that pays well. I am from Chicago, and I am looking for something that does not require a minimum of a bachelor's degree! I will...
Posted Sunday July 22nd, 2007.
If writing for travel industry will be your focus, start with the marketing department of some of the major tour companies, airlines or business consulting groups doing business in Asia and maintaining a representative office in Viet Nam. Also, check the NH site for information on Vietnam Pathfinder and East-West magazines. I recall seeing a posting for writers on the main screen a while back.
Finally, it would be prudent to first speak with the VN consulate in your home country regarding the appropriate visa for entry and any supporting work documents. The work permits vary depending on the nature of employment and sometimes require a letter from an in country sponsoring organization.
In response to the question: I need to find a job that pays well. I am from Chicago, and I am looking for something that does not require a minimum of a bachelor's degree! I will...
Posted Saturday August 11th, 2007.
Agreed. Skype is the way to go.
Purchased a phone card at the main post office but never had the need to use it. While Skype can be very reliable, it's not a bad idea to have a card to fall back on just in case...
In response to the question: Does anyone use International Calling cards in Hanoi and where can you buy them? Am I about to be told the easiest and cheapest way is using Skype ...
Posted Tuesday August 28th, 2007.
Ditto.
There is a great deal of opinion on the best way to proceed with license matters.
Near to Hoi An, showed the proprietor of a Moto rental place an Intl. Driver's License. All he said was " Vay thi khom sau" ( It's OK, no sweat) and off we went. But we were never quite sure if he meant the Intl. wasn't needed, not recognized, not wanted...or whatever.
Licenses are a bit of a gray area to say the least.
In response to the question: Hi there, I am moving to Hanoi in a week and am considering buying a motorbike (and getting lessons on how to ride one!). My travel insurance will on...
Posted Thursday September 27th, 2007.
I wasn't quite able to post a review of Co Loa Citadel but this answer section seemed a logical place to do so.
Co Loa is one of the true gems of Vietnam's ancient citadels. Rich in history and legend this excellently preserved site is a short ride ( about 15 Km from Ho Hoan Kiem) just outside Ha Noi. A must- see for students of Vietnamese history and culture. Certainly worth a visit during the annual festival ( a planned repeat visit for me ) or anytime for a great day trip.
Four stars****
In response to the question: I have read recently that on certain days and at certain times you are now able to walk around parts of the Hanoi ancient Citadel. I have lost the det...
Posted Tuesday October 16th, 2007.
As one can tell from the foregoing answers, there is no sure-fire way to avoid taxi issues. Indeed, cabbies are cabbies the world over. But the drivers in Ha Noi are generally quite reliable and honest in their dealings with passengers.
Luckily, I've had only roundabout experience which happend while traveling from Ho Tay to the post office near to Hoan Kiem. Outside of that, things have been smooth.
I've found that even if there is a meter,
it's best to try to agree on a general amount before boarding. Expecting a possible "increase" in the fare, I'll mentally build in a bit extra to the price
just in case. A few words of Vietnamese seem to go a long way in assuring a stable price, but there is no guarantee.
My experience is that most of the cabs working the areas near the major hotels are very reputable. But again, there is no guarantee...
In response to the question: I've noticed two "strategies" used by taxi drivers: The fairly obvious one is when they take a long, roundabout route to inflate the meter. T...
Posted Wednesday October 17th, 2007.
When Heaven and Earth Changed Places, by Le Ly Hayslip is generally available on Amazon. I haven't tried it myself, but I hear that Amazon will deliver to Viet Nam and other Southeast Asian countries. Also, somewhere along the way I've heard that the Phuong Nam Bookstore ( Nha Sach Phuong Nam ) in HCMC District 1. Saigon Centre is a good resource for foreign language books.
Good luck with your search.
In response to the question: bother some of u again Anyone knows a bookshop which has surely the "When the heaven and earth changed places"-by a Vietnamese lady and "THe time ...
Posted Tuesday October 23rd, 2007.
Take a look at MEDEX travel medicine packages
offered through the company online service.
As a frequent traveler, I use MEDEX as my carrier very often. The coverage periods offered range from per diem to the TravMed Choice Plan with a maximum of 365 days. All plans have a Medevac provision as part of the insurance contract.
Though I've been pleased with how comprehensive MEDEX plans are and generally happy with the company's rates, I've never had a claim,( luckily ).
I feel that a carrier's claims paying reliability is equally, if not more important than breadth of coverage. For that reason, I find it prudent to compare several company insurance packages rather than stay with the same group.
In response to the question: Hmm, I tried this question unsuccessfully this morning - it didn't show up. Problem - almost every bit of info about Vietnam says to get health in...
Posted Friday October 26th, 2007.
I enjoyed listening very much and appreciated the sentiment expressed in the english lyrics. Her voice reminded me of a singer on a CD I purchased entitled Ha Long Bien Nho . I had to listen a few times to be sure, but it is two different artists.
In response to the question: Anyone could give a comment for this song? http://www.nhacso.net//Music/Song/Tru-Tinh/2006/01/05F601C1/Default.asp It is in english and composed and ...
Posted Wednesday October 31st, 2007.
Given the large number of optical shops around town, you will most likely find contact lens materials ( presumably in the size you need).
If that route fails to turn up a small bottle of lens solution, however, try www.minimus.biz. The company specializes in providinga very large variety of mini, travel-sized items including two once bottles of lens solution. The place will ship but the overseas freight sports a real price tag. For that reason, folks who use the service typically stock up on what they need from Minimus before departure.
In response to the question: Does anyone know where i can buy a small (travel-size) bottle of contact lens solution?...
Posted Monday November 5th, 2007.
Contact the legal services division of DFDL Mekong. The office is located in the office section of Melia Hanoi on Ly Thuong Kiet.
In response to the question: Can anyone recommend a good legal office / whatever that can help navigate the treacherous shores of registering a foreign-owned company in Vietnam?...
Posted Monday November 26th, 2007.
Ha Long Bay, especially the area covered by Cat Ba Island, has beaches nearest to Ha Noi. If it will be your first visit, try the Red River delta route with a stop in Hai Phong and ferry crossing to Ha Long. Traveling there takes a good 4-6 hours from Ha Noi by mini-bus but is well worth the trip. On your return to the city, you can go by highway and be back in town in 2.5 hours, traffic permitting. There is a variety of hotels in the vicinity of Halong City.However, try a night or two shipboard on the Bay, age of children permitting. You can easily make arrangements for Ha Long/Cat Ba visits through any of the travel agents in town.
Ha Long Bay is truly the Eighth Wonder of the World. Not to be missed.
In response to the question: Where are the best beaches? How far from Hanoi? Do you use public transport or car? And where should one stay for good food, the sound of surf and a ...
Posted Tuesday December 4th, 2007.
Has anyone experienced the health issues described in the foregoing posts upon return to their home country?
My time in high-density population Asian cities has ranged from a few days to several weeks. Yet, I don't experience the cold-like symptoms complained of *until* I'm home. And it seems that my hometown problems surface with increasing regularity with every trip I take; I sneeze, cough and run a fever within a few short hours of arriving at the home port.The problems arise despite a daily dose of all sorts of vitamins, proper immunity shots, and sort of a built-in adaptability to new environments. Indeed, all the precautions...go figure!
In response to the question: This is half-question, half-gripe. My gf and I have been here for over months now, and we seem to be constantly afflicted with some annoying symptom ...
Posted Wednesday December 5th, 2007.
I recall seeing a notice for a family-oriented Christmas party at the American Chamber of Commerce Hanoi website.
Just checked back on the site and the advertisement lists event prices for parents, kids and non-members. Evidently, a number of members of the Chamber are from Australia. See, "Demographics" section of the site.
In response to the question: Christmas Celebrations I am trying to find a restaurant with childrens /entertainment for my Australian family including four children ie. Santa or s...
Posted Sunday December 30th, 2007.
You will find a number of exceptional and informative exhibits on military history at the Army Museum on Dien Bien Phu Street. Perhaps one of the staff may be able to answer your question. Even if the information you seek is not available, a visit to the Museum is truly a worthwhile educational experience.
In response to the question: Anyone know the story behind the B52 in the lake near Ngoc Ha. I pass it most days and think WOW, but no one can tell me if the area was residential ...
Posted Saturday January 19th, 2008.
There is a Jade Counter in the main shop at Van Mieu. As you enter through the front gate, walk all the way to the back of the Temple and the shop will be opposite the main entrance.
The prices are geared to the tourist market but not unreasonable. And while there is no bargaining, you can request a certificate of authenticity for your purchase.
Jade can be a fairly popular item so no doubt there are other shops in town that someone may point out.
In response to the question: Well. Could anyone tell me where there's a Jade shop or a shop that sells real Jade? I'm sure there must be one around Hoan Kiem Lake somewhere?...
Posted Tuesday January 22nd, 2008.
Classic Jazz...like...trumpet, saxaphone,piano and quartet.
Works of jazz musicians like D. Brubek, T. Monk and M. Davis.
Just one person's opinion based on the link to the gallery website.
In response to the question: I am looking for some kinds of music to play in an art gallery. Any recommendations will be highly appreciated. ...
Posted Thursday March 13th, 2008.
Add Pho Thin ( 13 Lo Duc ) to your list of places. As I recall, the cafe stays open after 9:00 PM for an hour or so.
In response to the question: Hello, I'm looking for restaurants in Hanoi open after 9 PM, I know some (salsa, mediteranneo, ciao cafe...). Do you know any? Thanks...
Posted Saturday April 19th, 2008.
If you can't locate the hat you are looking for in town, take a short day trip out to Tam Coc. A number of vendors selling a large variety of hats made of natural fibers can be found there. On a previous trip to Tam Coc,( a really beautiful site to see),a fellow traveler bought a yellow straw version of a neat Sola Topee for about two dollars US. Perhaps a Panama hat awaits a purchaser.
In response to the question: Panama hats, anyone know of a shop that stocks them in Hanoi?...
Posted Tuesday May 6th, 2008.
Just a short note about the 9-12.
A fun, authentic and historically significant place to shop. The market is located through the alley passageway near Hai Ba Trung and its size makes it more manageable than some of the larger free-standing type markets.
On a prior visit to the city, I spent a little over two weeks near the 9-12 and would frequent the place for fruit each morning.The vendors start setting up about 5:30 and are ready to start the business day about 6:00 am.
It can be a big help to bargaining if you are one of the first to pass through in the morning. Listen out for " Mua mo hang di" ( open the shop...i.e. make the first offer of the day).
I hear that many of the chefs from some of the major restaurants often buy some cooking herbs at the 9-12.
Worth a visit!
In response to the question: can anyone advise where will I be able to buy fresh vegetables, fruits and meat from? I find that all these from the supermarket does not seem fresh t...
Posted Tuesday May 6th, 2008.
Correction to my post: 19-12, not 9-12. Sorry.
In response to the question: can anyone advise where will I be able to buy fresh vegetables, fruits and meat from? I find that all these from the supermarket does not seem fresh t...
Posted Saturday May 17th, 2008.
Try the Lobby Lounge Bar at the Opera Hotel.
The place is pricey but has a large variety of items for making mixed drinks.
An alternative might be Hotel Nikko. It is often frequented by a number of Japanese visitors and may have Midori available.
In response to the question: does anyone know where i can get Midori- the liquor, or at least tell me the bars sell cocktails with it in it. ...
Posted Monday June 9th, 2008.
We are working on an overland trip ( Ha Noi-Mai Chau-Son La and return via Lai Chau-Sapa-Ha Noi) to DBP for sometime in the near future. Your post indicated that you will be leaving by air in the next week. If possible, try to get a copy of the NEOS Guide
to Vietnam from Michelin Travel Publications.
It contains excellent useful information on sites,lodging, eating places, etc. in the northwest region.
In response to the question: Has anyone been to Dien Bien Phu city recently? I'm working on a project and I'd like to ask a few questions of any who's been up to the northwest ...
Posted Wednesday June 11th, 2008.
Forgot to mention that the most recent NEOS Guide to Vietnam I was able to locate is from
2002. The information is still quite useful for a trip to the northwest.If an updated version of the Guide is available, it may be worth checking out.
Sorry for the oversight.
In response to the question: Has anyone been to Dien Bien Phu city recently? I'm working on a project and I'd like to ask a few questions of any who's been up to the northwest ...
Posted Thursday June 19th, 2008.
I'm very much the adventurous sort and enjoy taking public transport outside major cities.
However, most folks I've talked to about a bus trip to the NW region tell me it's easier to book a tour and travel by jeep, mini-bus or motorcycle. According to a recent post on this site, you can get bus route maps and information on the Ha Noi Bus System-Main office at 16 Cao Ba Quat in Ba Dinh.
It's very easy to get to Tam Coc and the surrounding countryside. Most people do it as a day trip but there it can easily be fashioned into a weekender.
A bus trip to Cat Ba or Ha Long should be pretty straightforward. The road from the city to those areas is smooth sailn' ( run time for non-public transport about 4.5 hours)and returning by highway to the city in 2.5 depending on traffic. On the way to Ha Long be sure to spend some time in Bat Trang and Hai Phong if your schedule permits.
Enjoy your travels.
In response to the question: How does one get to Mai Chau or Cat Ba by public trans? where is the station? Has any one got experience taking a bus to Mai chau? how was it? Ar...
Posted Wednesday June 25th, 2008.
Try the Fitness Center at the Guoman Hotel on Ly Thuong Kiet. The universal gym and general athletic facilities are very good. I think there is both a per diem and monthly rate available for use of the facility.
In response to the question: Im into my weight lifting are there any gyms in Hanoi to cater for me...
Posted Monday June 30th, 2008.
As a guy, I can't claim expertise in the jewelry department but will often purchase something of interest for the folks back home.
Here are two places where I've bought gifts and may be a possible sources for the materials you are seeking.
In town, try Tribal Pan Flute at 42 Hang Bac
in the Old Quarter. The store stocks a myriad
of unique, interesting gifts and jewelry from Viet Nam's 54 minority groups. I recall several beaded items and a a box or so of loose unique beads for individual purchase. The proprietress is exceptionally helpful, speaks excellent English, Mandarin and Vietnamese and may be able to assist with your inquiry.
Outside the city, try the the merchants or manufactures in Bat Trang Village for ceramic and related beaded items.
In response to the question: Want to start making some of my own jewelry and wondering if anyone knows a bead store or bead stand at a market. Appreciate any info. Thanks, S...
Posted Friday July 18th, 2008.
Check the sports bar ( can't recall the name)
on the second floor of the Opera Hotel.
In response to the question: I am looking for a bar/café in Hanoi that shows the tour de france. Anybody know any places?? please contact me :) ...
Posted Thursday August 14th, 2008.
If the sender purchased and was issued a tracking number, check the status of delivery as frequently as possible. My experience in sending business correspondence to different places in Asia using a variety of express-type mail services is delivery updates are sometimes periodic. I'll get an email or fax indicating receipt before an update is posted.
In response to the question: Hello there, I had some family members send me a box of books over 3 weeks ago using US priority mail. Still no word of the package... Anybody...
Posted Thursday August 14th, 2008.
I'm a bit partial to the Metropole, but based on the TNH reviews of MCMXI (1911)in the Opera House, I'm giving the place serious consideration for special event upscale dining.
In response to the question: Hi all, Me and my husband are celebrating wedding anniversary in a few days. Can anyone recommend a fine dining restaurant for this occasion? Would...
Posted Friday August 15th, 2008.
Many thanks to Bob for the excellent information on La Verticale.
Yet another example of how TNH has proved to be an invaluable resource for New Hanoians while at home or abroad.
In response to the question: Hi all, Me and my husband are celebrating wedding anniversary in a few days. Can anyone recommend a fine dining restaurant for this occasion? Would...
Posted Wednesday August 20th, 2008.
Consider a trip to Qui Nhon as a less visited alternative to Nha Trang. For a bit of adventure, travel to Dong Ha in Quang Tri. There's not a great deal to do in town, but it is ideal for bus or moto day trips to Lao Bao. The mountain region and countryside near the Lao border is like another world.
Plane tickets are needed, but if your travel budget permits, look into some relaxation time on Phu Quoc Island.
In response to the question: Trying to find someplace not too crowded to go during the upcoming holiday. Doesnt have to be far, but motorbike ability and/or naturey setting would ...
Posted Tuesday September 23rd, 2008.
Start your search by locating some of the inexpensive "Old Saigon" and "Old Hanoi" series of B&W postcards available from street vendors around town. The photos cover important places in the cities circa 1920-1960. From there, try contacting the postcard publisher for higher resolution photos. I think the postcard company is located in HCMC or try The Gioi Publishers
in town.
In response to the question: I was wondering if there was anywhere I could find photos of Vietnam in the 1950s/60s for sale? Thanks in advance!...
Posted Thursday September 25th, 2008.
Tam Coc, often called the Inland Halong Bay, is a place of spectacular beauty that makes for an easy day trip from town. On balance, transport by minivan ( bargain hard on the all-inclusive packages ) seems to work well for groups of 6-8 pax.
In response to the question: Has anyone been to Tam Coc on a day trip? Is there something available that is in between a private tour (too expensive) and a "stuffed into the back...
Posted Wednesday October 15th, 2008.
On the suggestion of a couple of local folks, I went to a really excellent pharmacy in the vicinity of the intersection of Kim Ma and Giang Vo ( I think). While the place was small, it was ordered along the line of a self-contained well run hospital pharmacy.
I've been looking through some business cards trying to find the name of the place but to no avail. A bit fuzzy on the details, but it seems the green and white signage outside the pharmacy had the words Quoc Te ( international ) or maybe Tay
( Western ) somewhere in the name .
In response to the question: Is there a well stocked western-style drugstore in Hanoi? Thanks...
Posted Wednesday October 29th, 2008.
I'll criticize not what Hoisin others may choose, but as Pho me, give me Pho Bac or give me naught.
In response to the question: Okay, I'm used to eating Pho with Hoisin Sauce and I can't find any here. The strangest thing is that i can't remember any restaurant I've eaten at i...
Posted Monday November 17th, 2008.
Unless you're local, getting hired for certain sectors of the travel industry (e.g., tour leader, guide or director), will be virtually impossible. An alternative is to contact travel companies in your home country with a representative office here or a significant business presence in Viet Nam for positions suitable to your technical background and language skills. Also, it's helpful to contact the consulate regarding appropriate work permits.
Keep up with your language studies and best of luck.
In response to the question: My wife has 2 - 3 year work contract in Hanoi, starting end of 2009. Accommodation included. The issue: I need some interesting work or I'll go nut...
Posted Tuesday November 25th, 2008.
It's very tough being away-even for a short while.
For me, sometimes the posted question is answered by parts of Thomas Fowler's opening lines in the movie version of The Quiet American.
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 Friday November 28th, 2008.
Try the furniture division at Hoalu Fine Art and Handicraft Company. As recall, there are showrooms near to Hoan Kiem ( Maison de Hoalu) and at Noi Bai Airport. The company carries some really fine decorative home products and may be able to assist in creating the type of wooden panel you need.
In response to the question: Does someone know where I can get carved wooden panels made ? the kind you can put against a wall as part of a divider etc,.I have been to antiques sh...
Posted Saturday November 29th, 2008.
Try aloe vera in gel form.
In response to the question: Ok, so I now know that mosquito bite scars form from scratching, and I've sworn it off. Could someone please recommend something tried-and-true to us...
Posted Saturday November 29th, 2008.
We've used Tiger Balm for years. It's a great
temporary remedy for a variety minor skin ailments, muscle strain and even small headaches.
To call Tiger Balm's fragrance strong or pungent is an understatement. It is singularly identifiable by it's powerful aroma so it's best used at home. For a concoction with a less potent scent, try to find White Flower Oil. It's not as versatile
as Tiger Balm but works pretty well on muscle pain.
In response to the question: Hi! Does anyone know a reliable place (in Hanoi OR Saigon) where I could obtain Elocon (mometasone topical cream), Aveeno Anti-Itch Cream with Natur...
Posted Friday December 5th, 2008.
La Salsa gets my vote for tapas and a really enjoyable dining experience.
In response to the question: Could someone please enlighten me? Before coming here I had somehow never heard of "tapas". Wikipedia tells me that they are Spanish appetizers. Fi...
Posted Friday December 5th, 2008.
I think I may have misread the question. The best place to have authentic tapas is Spain. When in town, La Salsa suits me fine.
In response to the question: Could someone please enlighten me? Before coming here I had somehow never heard of "tapas". Wikipedia tells me that they are Spanish appetizers. Fi...
Posted Saturday December 6th, 2008.
Em noi gi ? Anh khong hieu gi ca!
In response to the question: Why did all my canned Bia Ha Noi openers suddenly turn to pull-tabs?...
Posted Saturday December 6th, 2008.
Specially decorated Tet Holiday beer cans sounds like interesting items to know more about. Can you post some examples?
In response to Atomic, I wasn't sure in the least what you were talking ( posting) about.
Stated another way, wtf?
In response to the question: Why did all my canned Bia Ha Noi openers suddenly turn to pull-tabs?...
Posted Saturday December 6th, 2008.
Now I get it. Thanks Virezo.
In response to the question: Why did all my canned Bia Ha Noi openers suddenly turn to pull-tabs?...
Posted Tuesday December 9th, 2008.
On a very early visit, I enjoyed some roasted corn and chestnuts from a vendor stand near to Hoan Kiem. Good stuff!
In response to the question: I'm wondering if people would mind giving me a quick run-down of the different types of street food they enjoy? I'm talking all street food, from the ...
Posted Wednesday December 10th, 2008.
Reading through the foregoing lists, I'd add Thit heo rung (wild boar) in various forms (BBQ'd or added to cha gio are great!) to the mix of enjoyable foods. I recall thit rung being generally available near to Hue. If someone knows a place to find the meat in Ha Noi, please post. Thanks.
In response to the question: I'm wondering if people would mind giving me a quick run-down of the different types of street food they enjoy? I'm talking all street food, from the ...
Posted Sunday January 4th, 2009.
If you are interested in knowing more about ancestral veneration, locate the film 'Burning Incense'. It's an informative introduction to some of the cultural and artistic aspects of traditions in and around Ha Noi. I think the film (in english) was produced as part of a graduate student's dissertation on Vietnamese art history.
In response to the question: Um...this may possibly be in dawnation's dumbass question section (or dumbass dissertation, in my case) BUT this is how it goes..... A number of...
Ha Noi is Asia's most unique city and my kind of town.
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