Climate
Hanoi experiences the typical climate of northern Vietnam where summers are hot and humid and winters are relatively cool and dry. Summer months remain from May to September and the months are characterized by extreme hot weather with plenty of rain. Summer in Hanoi can get as hot as 38°c to 40°c (100-104°F). Winter rules from November to March. The weather remains cold and dry. The minimum winter temperature in Hanoi can dip as low as 6-7°C (43°F). So, the annual temperature varies from 8°c to 38°c. During the transition months of April and October, the weather becomes unpredictable as you should be prepared for anything. Autumn and first haft of winter is the most beautiful season in Hanoi.
Currency
The Vietnam currency is the dong or VND. Travellers’ cheques and credit cards can also be used in travel agencies, hotels and major restaurants.
Customs
On arrival, one must complete the white and yellow duplicate arrival-departure forms. Visitors must declare foreign currency in excess of US$7,000. It is prohibited to import and export anti-government literature, pornography, firearms and weapons.
Electricity
Vietnam uses 220V electricity nationwide. In the south, outlets are often US-style flat pins. In the north, many outlets fit round pins. As the electrical current fluctuates, use a surge protector when running sensitive electronic equipment like laptops. Three-pin plugs (like those used in the UK) are the standard in our residences.
Emergency Call Numbers
| Police | 113 |
| Fire Brigade | 114 |
| Ambulance | 115 |
Health
Medical standards and treatments are not advanced. Be careful when buying pharmaceutical/medicinal goods; check them properly before use. Vaccinations are recommended before travelling. Drink only boiled and bottled water.
Local Area Information
The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, dominates the north in many ways. Founded in 1010 AD, this historic city is situated in the Red River Delta, on the west side of the river.
Mobile Phones
Network providers available in Hanoi are Vinaphone, Mobifone, Viettel, S-Fone and City Phone.
Public Phones
Public phones require phone cards, which are available at post offices.
Shopping & Business Hours
Shopping hours are from 8:00 a.m. or 8:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. or 10:00 p.m.
- Banks: Open from 7:30 a.m. or 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. and are closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
- Government offices: Open from 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Mondays to Fridays.
Taxes
There will be a 10% government tax (VAT) imposed in some goods and a 5% service charge in more upscale restaurants.
Time Zone
GMT +7.
Tipping
As 5% service charge is added to the bill, tipping is up to one’s preferences.
Visa
Visa requirements vary for different nationalities. Before moving to Vietnam, check with your respective Vietnamese Embassy in your country for any update in the regulations. Visas are exempted for the citizens of the countries, which have signed a bilateral or unilateral visa exemption agreement with Vietnam.
Visa extension can be obtained from the local Police Station, Department of Immigration, or authorized travel agent at an additional fee.
Visitors from China may use tourist cards when heading for the capital city of Hanoi.
