Q: What are important to take care of when expecting and negotiating the lease contract ?
A: Generators are no longer supplied by landlord, since the supply of electricity in Hanoi has substantially improved, and there are few major power cuts. Water supply is not a problem. Most properties have three-phase electricity supply in many older house is not grounded, you should have at least the points in the kitchen and bathrooms checked for safety reasons. Check also that the water pressure is adequate and that the water heaters are large enough to fill a bath.

It is almost impossible to move a property in Hanoi hat will not have some construction work close by in the future, so it is advisable to avoid renting a property that has an obvious vacant lost next to or in front of it. If a house appears to be a ''bargain'', ask yourself why. House of similar size in any one area should be of similar rent, and if a property has been empty for more than a month or two, there may be a negative reason.

When you move into a house, there should be s comprehensive 'handover' document. All meters should be read at that time to make sure that, in addition to your electricity, you are not also paying for your neighbor. Be aware of possible noise nuisance, such as early morning markets or karaoke bars near your house.

Hanoi is a very safe city in which to live, but some people choose to have security guards, and some embassies make this a requirement. Although the majority of expatriates in the city opt not to have guards, this is a person choice and easily arranged, if you think necessary. Some of the larger houses with gardens and pools often have their night guard double up as a gardener/pool attendant/dog walker, etc..,since a large house, the maid would not be able to undertake these chores in addition to her normal domestic duties.

---

Q: General information about Hanoi city
A: This is intended to provide those planning to move to Hanoi with relevant information on living and coping with many aspects of life in this unique city from the expat perspective.

AREA: 921 sq. km
POPULATION: 3.007.000 habitants (2003).
DISTRICT: Hoan Kiem, Ba Dinh, Dong Da, Hai Ba Trung, Tay Ho, Thanh Xuan, Cau Giay, Long Bien, Hoang Mai
RURAL DISTRICT: Dong Anh, Soc Son, Thanh Tri, Tu Liem, Gia Lam (and the Hatay province, merged from 2008)
ETHNICS GROUP: Viet (Kinh), Hoa.

The capital city of Vietnam has a lot to offer to its visitors and residents alike. This big city is quieter than Ho Chi Minh City and has an acceptable level of pollution. You will also discover more green spaces and 18 beautiful lakes such as Hoan Kiem Lake, West Lake, and Truc Bach Lake.

From the narrow streets of the old quarter to the many lakes dotting the city, Hanoi is charming and unique. Though Hanoi is a bustling city of about four million hurtling from third world status towards modernization, it is safe and accessible, friendly and easy to move around in. Extremely livable and affordable, fascinating and genuine are how most expatriates describe their Hanoi living experiences. It is one of the last places on earth like it - women in conical hats toting double baskets laden with fresh fruit or flowers, men on bicycles selling shoe laces and polish, sidewalk stalls with grilled meats and soup, all while modern stores and conveniences sprout quickly up around them. Hanoians are accommodating, curious, and often eager to help. A surprising number of people speak some English and call out "Hello!" to passersby.

The cultural life in Hanoi is very interesting. Many of the well-known Vietnamese painters, musicians and writers have been trained in the best schools of Hanoi.

You'll find many housing options in Hanoi from gated-communities to old French villas, from serviced apartments to Vietnamese houses. More and more, everything you'll need for living, household use, and school items are widely available. Supermarkets and shops stock many European and western products; art and school supplies are inexpensive and readily available. Satellite television, Internet access, and entertainment options abound. There are bowling alleys, arcades, many parks, and a newly opened water park. Fitness clubs, tennis courts, and swimming pools are convenient and music and sporting lessons are easy to arrange. Also, many cultural and arts events from symphony orchestra and ballet to the circus and water puppets bring a dynamism to city life.

The Hanoi economy is improving rapidly. In addition to the flourishing tourism, the city is confident that its other industries will continue to develop. Factories are sprouting like mushrooms around the city along with many local arts and crafts businesses. Commerce is expanding and new shops are opening everyday, such as bar and restaurants, decoration and souvenir stores and phone shops.

The most attractive place of Hanoi is its centre, around Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter. For a quieter lifestyle you may also be interested in the residential area near Ho Tay Lake which is much favoured by the expatriate community.

---

Q: While the increase in car use and congestion are serious problems, the most annoying thing about the traffic in Hanoi is the way people use ...
A: When one first arrives in Hanoi, you can't but help to worry about the traffic here however there are a number of options for transportation and don't forget in Vietnam they drive on the right hand side of the road.

BUS
For those who haven't come back here for a long time, you will notice that a lot of bus stops have appeared everywhere in town. Modern buses with air conditioning now cross the streets of the big cities, particularly in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The fare is 3.000 - 5.000 VND. More information on bus routes can be found in the Hanoi Guide.

BUYING CARS / MOTORCYCLES
It s easy to get a motorcycle/moped here. For a 50cc you won't need a driving license. But for a more powerful motorcycle or a car, you will enquire with the authorities for up to date information on their requirements. Wearing a helmet is compulsory.

CYCLOS
They are less numerous than before in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Current urban legislations forbid them access to some streets. Traffic becomes heavier with an increasing number of motorcycles and more recently, of cars. Expats usually don't have time to use this kind of transportation and prefer to use xe om or taxi when they don't have their own vehicle. Local Vietnamese still use cyclos, especially to carry heavy loads.

HONK
The use of horn here is not considered ''aggressive''. When someone is behind you, he will use his horn to tell you that he is there and about to pass you.

RESPONSIBILITY
When you have an accident, you are responsible if you are ''bigger''
(Example: car > bicycle or motorcycle) than the other whoever's fault it is. Ask your insurance company to know exactly how they cover you in case of problem.

RISK
50% of repatriations are due to traffic accidents. The most exposed people are those who ride motorcycle. We strongly recommend that you wear an helmet.

TAXIS
Very convenient, especially if you are at least 2-3 people. Avoid taxis during rush hours if you are in a hurry (16:00 PM - 19:30 PM).

XE OM
They are motorbike taxis on which you ride behind the driver. They can be found very easily in the streets, and it's often they who find you and propose their services. An average 5.000 VND should be expected to go in a place in the same district, 10.000-15.000 VND to cross the city.

---

Q: Use, rates, buy . . .
A: PUBLIC PHONES:
Without cellular, the easiest ways for calling are the Post Offices, in most cities of Vietnam, and the phones placed in some shops. They are quite easy to find provided that you know how to recognize them. Phone booths can be found only in the biggest cities near the tourist areas. To use them, you will need to buy a prepaid card available in the Post Offices.

CELL PHONES:
You can use your own cell phone if you come from a European, Asian country or Australia (GSM 900/1800). If it isn't yet unlocked, it's going to be easy to do it here. For those who come from USA or Japan, you will need to buy a new cell phone. Three big telecom companies are sharing the market. They propose prepaid cards and pay as you call solutions (You receive a bill at the end of the month). But whatever solution you pick, you will need to get a SIM card (your telephone number), which will cost about 300.000 VND. Cell phone shops can be found very easily everywhere in Vietnam, even in the most remote part of the country.

INTERNET:
The internet is everywhere, Vietnamese people adopted it massively. E-mailing and chat gather several thousands of people in the Internet Cafes now equipped with ADSL, which is convenient when we use vocal chat and webcam. Using the internet in Vietnam is cheap, about 3.000-4.000 VND/hour depending on the place where you go.

Internet at home: You can subscribe for Internet to VNN, FPT, VNPT, OCI, HANOITELECOM, NETNAM, SPT or VIETEL companies.

You can also purchase Internet prepaid cards with a value from 100.000 to 300.000 dong (FPT) or from 50.000 to 500.000 dong (VDC/VNN). With these cards, no subscription is required.

TO CALL ABROAD:
You can call abroad to fixed or cell phones via internet with special internet prepaid cards. Quality is quite good taking into account the very low fares for this service. Try cards like www.vietvoiz.com

VOLTAGE & PLUGS
220 watts and round 2 pin plugs are used in Vietnam. Reasonable quality adaptors can be purchased locally. Some hotels use U.K. three pin plugs. Stabilizers are used in many households and offices; power surges are common, power cuts are still prevalent so UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) are recommended for computer use. These can be purchased locally.

---

Q: Security, Identification, Drugs, Marriage, Northern border departure . . .
A: SECURITY
Hanoi is safer than most large cities in the world, but the 'common sense' rule applies here as elsewhere. Pick pocketing does happen. Do not flaunt wealth or carry large amounts of jewellery or cash. Be careful with your handbag. Its better not to take a cyclo at night, especially in quiet streets. Cars and motorbikes parked without supervision can easily be stripped of loose parts, so its better to use guarded 'car keeping'.

IDENTIFICATION
All non Vietnamese citizens are required to register their presence with the local authorities. The registration may be undertaken by the sponsoring body or another party. Your workplace should organize this registration for you. A Vietnamese organization will manage your stay in accordance with current national immigration regulations. Foreign offices and companies need to report your presence to the Hanoi People's Committee and the Hanoi Immigration Office both for approval and permits. Vietnamese law requires that you carry identification documents with you at all times. This is especially important when traveling in Vietnam. The hotel you stay in will require passport details to register you with the local police.

DRUGS
It is illegal to import or export illicit drugs of any amount in or out of Vietnam. Penalties for doing so can be severe, life imprisonment or even the death sentence. There is no special consideration given to a foreigner for such offences.

MARRIAGE
Vietnamese law does not provide for a situation where two non Vietnamese people can marry. However, a non Vietnamese national can marry a Vietnamese national. A foreigner wishing to marry a foreigner in Vietnam should check with their Embassy to determine possibilities.

NORTHERN BORDER DEPARTURE
You are expected to state your point of departure on entry. Thus, if you enter via Noi Bai airport, Hanoi, you will normally be expected to exit the same route. If you wish to travel to China via the northern border, this must be arranged before leaving Hanoi at the Vietnamese Immigration Office, or by a government tourist company.

---

Q: Some foreigners do drive happily in Vietnam, but the majority of expatriates who own a car hire a driver, as driving in Hanoi is usually unpredictable and stressful. A good knowledge of the various one-way system and accessible parking places in the city center is also a valuable asset of an experienced driver.
A: Horns are used to extensively to announce your presence to other road users and your intention to pass a vehicle. Traffic police can be seen enforcing road signs and lawn in certain parts of the city, but elsewhere you cannot rely on the rules being obeyed. Most drivers particularly of cars, stop at red lights, but some motorcyclists and ordinary cyclists still seem impervious to their importance. The give-way rule present in many Western countries is basically reversed in Vietnam, and this can be the most difficult thing for foreigners to get used to when driving in Vietnam.

In Hanoi, guarded car parks in convenient locations are hard to find. It is worth getting mirrors and lights made theft-proof, as these easily disappear in unguarded areas. If you choose to drive yourself, and you could, as a foreigner, be at a disadvantage in a settlement.

Construction work on the road is a permanent feature of Hanoi life, whether it be a major project, such as a new bridge, or the resurfacing of a lane. In rural areas, the condition of the roads can be very variable. When planning journeys, an average speed of 40 km per hour gives a good indication of the duration of the trip.

---

Q: An apartment or a House in should be better for a foreigner in Hanoi ?
A: The first thing you must consider are whether you want to rent a single-family house or an apartment and whether you prefer furnished or unfurnished accommodation, Apartments in Hanoi are generally more expensive to rent than a house, High-quality apartments usually offer facilities such a pool, a gym, and 24-hours security. Furnished, serviced apartments with daily maid service and other facilities are available on both short-and long-term leases and are recommended for new-comers. Indeed, your company may have already booked one on your behalf before your arrival. This initial move is highly recommended, until such time as you are able to locate the apartment or house of your choice. If your intention is to find your own permanent accommodation at a later date, ensure that the lease you or your company takes for the serviced apartment is signed for only one month initially, with the option to renew monthly. This is to safeguard against your being locked into tenancy which you can not break and which may not suit your requirement.

---

Q: Any suggestion about where are good and convenient for foreigners in Hanoi ?
A: Location is usually one of the most important criteria in choosing housing. Important factors to consider include: place of work, children' school, budget, and leisure activities. There is a wide range of properties available in Hanoi, and it is worth talking different areas and to establish your priorities. The West Lake area and the Ciputra area are both places where expatriates live.

---

Q: Experiences on working with real estate agent, what are DOS and DON'Ts those should be noted ?
A: There is a growing number of real estate agents in Hanoi serving the expatriate community. Reputable companies have foreign consultant to train bilingual staff to understand and communicate your contractual requirements to a landlord. Ask friend or colleagues to recommend an agent who has offered them professional service. Be aware that if the secretarial or HR staff in your company offer to help you find a home or recommend a local agent, you may end up viewing many unsuitable properties, be given incorrect information regarding the prevailing market trends, and sign lease agreements for inferior properties, with no protection for the tenant.

Agents in Hanoi are general non exclusive, which means you are free to work with as many agents as you like. The system works on the basis that the first agent to take tenant to a house will be paid a fee by the landlord if a lease is signed. For your own records, and to avoid arguments later, it is important to insist on a written list of properties viewed with any one agent.

But, it is advised that you use only one property agent at a time. Most property companies share the same database of property listings. If you approach many agents at the same time, very likely that they will show you the same property. Much confusion and embarrassment will arise if you engage many agents. Save valuable time for yourself and the agent. Only if unresponsive or not showing the correct property you wanted, then start to look for another agent.

---

Q: Moving my pets to Vietnam is possible ? What are important matter that should be known ?
A: If you have a pet it is possible to bring it with you. Dogs with heavy coats will suffer from the climate and require frequent grooming. When you walk them they must be on a leash at all times due to the traffic. Although dog eating is common in Vietnam, and many myths circulate, people only eat one type of locally bred dog.

When deciding whether or not to bring your pet to Vietnam, bear in mind that safety may be a problem for your pet in the country. Outdoor space is limited and they cannot be allowed to roam freely. However, if you cannot bear to leave little Sparky behind, keep in mind that the regulations in Vietnam for bringing in pets seem to be random at present, and inquiring about them can be a headache. Perhaps the wisest thing is to have all the following documentation ready:

# Have your pet re-vaccinated, particularly for rabies at least 30 days before you travel, even if it is not due for a vaccination. New vaccination certificates are more readily accepted, and you won't have to think about vaccines for a while.

# Have your pet examined by a veterinarian within a week of your travel date and get an English language Certificate of Health with a stamp on it. A Health Certificate valid within 7 days of departure is required. It is recommended that before coming you contact someone in Vietnam and ask them to take a letter to the Veterinary Department in Hanoi. This letter should introduce you, describe the pets you want to bring in, state the dates you plan to arrive with your pets, reassure that they are vaccinated and have been checked by a vet. Have your contact get the letter stamped by the Vet Department and mail the original to you. Present this at the baggage claim area where you will clear your pet through customs. Expect to pay a small fee. (Note: Pets have been imported without this document. We are not aware if any have been turned away for not having it.

To take your pet out of Vietnam, you will need to have a current Rabies Certificate of Vaccination. The injection must be completed a minimum of one month before departure, three months is best. This certificate, with your pet, passport, and photocopies of documents must be taken to the Veterinary Station at Noi Bai Airport to obtain a Certificate of Health a few days before departure (a maximum of 7 days before departure.)

At the present time, carrying cages are not generally available here, but wooden boxes can be made to measure. However, several people have obtained animal carry boxes from Air France. Contact one of the local veterinarians for more information or support.

Don't forget to check regulations controlling importing your pet to the destination country with the relevant Embassy.

If you have a pure bred cat it should be kept indoors or on a leash since cats can be stolen for their value. Cats can be bought here but do not acquire an animal you intend to abandon when you leave.

Food for pets can be purchased in most supermarkets and the city has several veterinarians.

For normal pets such as dogs and cats the government requires a rabies certificate. For animals that may be dangerous to the environment or agricultural development, a permit should be acquired from the Ministry of Rural and Agricultural Development.

Different airlines/carriers have their own regulations for bringing pets into Vietnam, and whilst some are very relaxed, others are very strict. You must check the rules with your airline in advance.

---

Q: Can you give me some idea about the expatriate communities currently living in Hanoi ?
A: The Hanoi expatriate community is many and varied with most of the world's nations represented, if only in a small way. A tribute to this is the variety of students currently attending the United Nations International School in Hanoi. In addition there is French, Korean and Japanese schools accommodating the large numbers of expatriates from these countries.

Americans: They are now a big community in Vietnam. Some came here to do business or to work for NGOs. Others came here to meet their origins.

Australians: They are with the French among the biggest foreign community in Vietnam. Links between Vietnam and Australia can be found in the geographical proximity and by the fact that it is the main Anglo-Saxon country in the region.

British: They are known to be globe-trotters. Many live in Asia, traditionally in India, China (especially in Hong-Kong) and in Australia. Most of those who live in Vietnam are teachers or doing business.

Canadians: Canada has been one of the most important country to welcome the Vietnamese Diaspora, this naturally contributed to create bonds.

Chinese: They represent the most important foreign Asian community in Vietnam.

French: They are here for historical and affective reasons. They are quite successful when they deal with culture, gastronomy and business. Go to the IDECAF and to the ESPACE cultural centers in HCMV and in Hanoi.

Germans: There are known to be a large number of Germans residing in Hanoi. They are involved in Environmental and Rurally based projects and operating within the Aid and Welfare sector of the community.

Japanese: Until a few years ago, the Japanese society in Hanoi was very small. With economic development in Vietnam and geographical conditions, i.e., near to the southern part of China, a fast developing industrial area, many Japanese companies, such as electronic manifacturers and car manifacturers, have set up offices and factories in Hanoi and around Hanoi. Most of Japanese expats are these companies' employees and their families.

Koreans: They are sent by their companies with all the family. Young Koreans often follow language courses (Vietnamese and English) at the Universities.

Singaporeans: They are among the most important investors in Vietnam.

Spanish: Yes, I found some! They are just a few, around 50, but still present, most of them work for the Spanish Chamber of Commerce and some come to teach Spanish and animate parties in the bars of Hanoi and Saigon. Did you know that most traffic lights in Vietnam come from Spain?

Taiwanese: It might be true that some of them come to Vietnam to find a wife, but most of them are influential entrepreneurs.

---

Q: What is about the lease period for renting house / apartment ?
A: Lease for house are normally signed for period of between 12 and 36 months. It is difficult to rent a house for less than a period of 12 months, although this can be negotiated, if your circumstances demand such an arrangement. Leases on serviced apartment can be for variable lengths of time and are generally more flexible. The normal practice here is that on signing the lease, a deposit equal to one month rent must be paid to secure the property. This is actually the first month rent, and it will be deducted from the advance payment of the rent you have agreed on with your landlord. Advance payment can vary considerably, but for a good property, a minimum of six months rent is generally required. Sometimes, for a large new house, a minimum of a year rent is demanded.

The lease must be in both English and Vietnamese. If you are any doubt as to the terms in the contract, you should consult a lawyer or the company legal department before signing. A reputable real estate agent should be able to provide you with a simple but comprehensive lease document, in well-written English, that is fair to both landlord and tenant, stating very clearly all your requirement. Particular attention should be paid to the termination clause, in case unforeseen circumstances require you to cut short your stay in Vietnam, or changes in your neighborhood cause you to no longer wish to live there. Sometimes, this is known as a 'diplomatic clause', with enables you to leave early without having to honor any requirement for a notice period.

Make sure that only you have the right to terminate the contract. The landlord should only be to terminate the contract if you fail to make the rent payments on time.

---

Q: Details of equipments and furnishing that tenant have to do after signing to rent a house / apartment ?
A: It is possible to find both furnished and unfurnished properties in Hanoi. The basic equipment provided by the landlord should include a range (with oven), cooker hood, a refrigerator (negotiate for a bigger one), a washing machine, satellite and decoder (or cable TV), two- way split-air conditioners in bedrooms and major living area, voltage stabilizers, and ceiling fans, if they can be fitted in. You could also try to negotiate for a separate clothes dryer and dishwasher (depend).

Kitchens and bathrooms are generally of acceptable international standards, and you can negotiate with the landlord for any renovations prior to commencement of the lease. landlord usually agree to fulfill reasonable requests, such as providing and fitting curtains of blinds, but these may be reflected in a small additional to the initial asking rent. If you want, an unfurnished property can be completely furnished, with your choice of new furniture, at an additional US$ 700 to $1,000 per month.

UTILITIES:

Electricity and telephone usage is metered, monthly bills will be delivered to your home. Garbage collection and water bills can be organized for you and paid by your maid. These latter charge are usually very small.

---

Q: How to apply the visa before moving to Vietnam and any other concern regarding this matter that we should care ?
A: Foreigners who come to work and live in Vietnam usually obtain visas in their home country before leaving. This will often done through their sponsoring organizations. After providing the requested information to the sponsoring organization, your visa request will be submitted to Vietnam immigration and security. Once your visa is granted, you can have your visa entered in your passport at the nearest Vietnamese embassy. Allow at least two week's time to get your visa if you have to mail your passport to the Vietnamese embassy. Make sure that all your family members received an entry visa before traveling.

Your visa also can be picked up upon your arrival in any international airport in Vietnam (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh city and Da Nang). You must still apply for your visa in advance. Make sure that your travel with your visa approval document, two pictures, and the exact fee, as per your agent's information. This document should be supplied to you by the company which takes care of your visa.

Upon arrival in Vietnam, have your company apply for your working permit and, once available, you can apply for a resident permit.

It is better to have the visa (or the visa approval document, should you chose to pick up your visa at the airport of entry) in hand before you start shipping your household goods . . . just to be in safe side.

A professional relocation company can also assist you with your visa and immigration needs.

USEFUL ADDRESSES

Hanoi Immigration Office
89 Tran Hung Dao
Tel :+84 4 3825 3076
For normal visa extension and temporary stay permits.

Vietnamese Immigration Department
40A Hang Bai
For new Vietnamese exit visa, to transfer valid visas from an old passport to a new one, or change exit points for departing the country.

Vietnamese Departure Tax
International flights : 14 USD (221.000 VND)
Domestic flights: 20.000 VND

---

Q: What to bring, what to leave behind . . that we need our care before moving ?
A: WHAT TO BRING:

In term of the availability of consumer goods, Hanoi has become an easier city to live in. There are surprisingly many imported goods available. There are, however, still some items you may wish to bring. These include:

# High-quality bicycle and motorbike helmets, especially for children
# Books for grown-ups, and books, music, and DVDs for kids, in your own language
# Candles
# Ethnic food products and spices
# Shoes
# Good quality toys
# Lingerie, bathing suits, and nylons for anyone larger than size 80B and 38/M
# Non-routine contact lens supplies
# Shoe polishes other than black and brown
# Rubber boots and rain clothes for children

WHAT TO LEAVE BEHIND:

Art on paper, and items with intricate mechanisms or delicate woodwork. Electricity in Vietnam is 220V, so those coming from countries with 110V electricity may want to reconsider bringing their favorite electrical appliances. Power cut do occur, and power surges are common, so a power stabilizer is necessary. Some like to have a UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) for the computer. Adapters, UPS, and power stabilizers are all available locally.

Do not pack any guns, drugs, pornography, satellite equipment, explosive or corrosive materials, radio receivers and antennae, or anything blatantly anti-Vietnamese in your shipment. A small quantity of non-perishable provisions will normally be allowed. All alcohol is subject to duty, so it is advisable not to include this in your consignment.

Items to leave behind include:

# Art on paper
# Antiques with mechanisms and/or intricate woodwork
# Antiques without proper documentation (see below)
# Foodstuffs in larger quantities
# Larger things made of leather
# Boots

---