Moving around in Hanoi can be – ahem – challenging, but with a bit of care you too can be sailing along in no time.

Hang Dao Street with tram

Xe oms (motorbike taxis) are on every corner. For some of us, a dedicated  xe om saves us the hassle of buying and maintaining a bike, and once your partnership has been cemented, it saves you the problem of bargaining for every kilometer. They are also great for finding those odd bits and bobs that you need. Some people pay by the week, some by the day. Most now have mobile phones so they are on call day and night. At the beginning you may need a nearby Vietnamese to explain where you are. (stories of mispronounced street names abound)

Pedi-cab circa 1900

Cyclos are rarely an option for daily use but are a charming way to see the city. Beware that laws forbid them on some streets so they may take a round about route. The Old Quarter is closed to cyclos at certain times as well. You could bargain mercilessly but the going rate is between 40,000 and 50,000 dong per hour.

Taxi Tai are those small trucks. They can move your house in no time. They’re on a meter but you have to pay extra for labour. They’re still the cheapest way to move. Try Thanh Hung Taxi Tai (04) 3873 1313 or (04) 3873 3733.

For more transport options click on airlines, bicycles, boats, buses, cars, motorbikes and taxis.