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pooroldedgar
Joined: 07 Oct 2010
Posts: 181
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 Posted: Mon Feb 29, 2016 12:12 am Post subject: Why is everyone so down on Hanoi? |
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Seems like everyone can't wait to get out of there. I thought it was meant to be so much more historic and exotic. What makes HCMC so much better?
[Bonus points if you explain the pros and cons in terms of getting accomodations and work teaching English] |
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kurtz
Joined: 12 Mar 2008
Posts: 518
Location: Phaic Tan
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| Posted: Mon Feb 29, 2016 1:28 am Post subject: |
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Who is this "everyone"?
Like I said in another thread, Hanoi is a fascinating city, but it is changing quickly.
HCMC isn't as exotic, and it might seem a bit boring in terms of tourist sights for tourists, but the general consensus is that for foreigners, it's a lot more liveable. This generally has to do with the people who seem a lot more open and friendly than the frowny Hanoins.
Most people go through the usual stages of culture shock, but in Hanoi, I don't think many get to the acceptance phase. I certainly didn't. Watching parents letting their young children defecate and urinate on the side of the road, seeing people throw all sorts of disgusting garbage in the lakes, getting ripped off left right and centre, having a close call every time I went out on my scooter, and enduring a horrible climate is something many people don't want to accept.
Try googling expat groups in both cities for jobs and accommodation. Don't give in to landlords demands of paying in USD. Choose wisely before paying 6 months in advance. |
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sigmoid
Joined: 21 Jan 2003
Posts: 1276
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| Posted: Mon Feb 29, 2016 5:00 am Post subject: |
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| Seems like everyone can't wait to get out of there. I thought it was meant to be so much more historic and exotic. What makes HCMC so much better? |
Well, neither city is "better" really. They're different. If you're from (or familiar with) the US, you might think of Ha Noi as a combination of Boston and Washington, DC and HCMC as Atlanta + Miami, something like that.
The big thing, as mentioned, is the climate. Right now is about 88 F/31 C in HCMC and 72 F/22 C in Ha Noi; not too bad but the low tonight is supposed to be 53 F/12 C. Later this week, it is supposed to be overcast and cloudy with a chance of rain. HCMC will be sunny and clear.
On the plus side for Ha Noi, yes, it has more history, the lakes, a smaller population, a bit more sophistication maybe, a more romantic atmosphere (don't think i would call it exotic), etc.
Advantages for HCMC other than the warm weather are that there are LOTS of schools and thus lots of work due to a much larger population. In general though, teaching rates are higher in HN, but then again, so is rent.
For me, the people and "fun factor" (not much) were about the same. You might consider skipping both and looking for work in some smaller cities. At least that way the traffic is bearable, the air breathable, the crime level lower, the atmosphere more quiet and pleasant. |
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sigmoid
Joined: 21 Jan 2003
Posts: 1276
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