Moving to Hanoi, Vietnam
Last updated on May 06, 2023
Summary: Expatriates are drawn to Hanoi, Vietnam for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and low cost of living. The city is a great place to experience the unique blend of traditional and modern Vietnamese culture, with its ancient temples, bustling markets, and lively nightlife. Hanoi is also a great place to explore the country's stunning natural beauty, with its lush green mountains, stunning beaches, and picturesque countryside. Additionally, the city offers a wide range of job opportunities, making it an attractive destination for those looking to start a new career.
What do I need to know before moving to Hanoi?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Hanoi, they said:
"Hanoi is a bustling city with a rich culture and history. Expats should be aware that the city is very crowded and the traffic can be chaotic. It is important to be aware of the local customs and etiquette, as well as the language barrier. Expats should also be aware of the cost of living in Hanoi, which is generally lower than in other major cities in the region. Additionally, expats should research the availability of healthcare and other services in the city before moving. Finally, expats should be aware of the weather in Hanoi, which can be hot and humid in the summer and cold and wet in the winter," explained one expat living in Hanoi, Vietnam.
"There are only a few areas where most expats live in Hanoi. You can live in town but then the noise can be a factor. Most kindergardens and schools are out of the centre. There are a few real estate companies and they generally have very good networks. I would recommend picking two or three and just spending time driving around to see what is on offer. You should never tell them your real budget and ask around to see what others are paying. You will probably change houses at some time during your stay and will know better the second time," said one expat in Hanoi.
How do I find a place to live in Hanoi?
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Hanoi?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Hanoi?
- Will I be able to find a job in Hanoi?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Hanoi appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Hanoi?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Hanoi accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Hanoi like?
- How are healthcare services in Hanoi?
- What are medical services in Hanoi like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Hanoi?
- What are emergency services like in Hanoi?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Hanoi?
- How are local medical facilities in Hanoi?
- As a foreigner living in Hanoi, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?