About izibuzi
izibuzi is a small, independent site of practical guides to everyday life in Vietnam, starting with Hanoi. It's written by John Le, who lives and works in Hanoi, with help from friends who grew up here.
Why it exists
Most travel content about Vietnam is either glossy and vague or years out of date. We wanted the guides we'd send a friend before they arrive: what a bowl of phở really costs this year, how renting a room works, which day trips are worth the drive, and what to do when it rains at 5:30 pm and every Grab driver vanishes.
How we write
- Real, dated details. Prices are given as typical ranges with the month they were checked. They are not quotes, and they change.
- Checked facts. Practical information such as holiday dates, transport and rules is checked against official or multiple independent sources before it goes up, and corrected when it changes.
- Honest trade-offs. If something is overrated, crowded or not worth your time, we say so.
- No paid placements. We don't accept payment to recommend a hotel, restaurant or tour. If the site ever carries advertising or sponsored content, it will be clearly labelled.
Photos
Photos are public-domain or CC0 images, credited under each picture, or illustrations clearly marked as such.
Not advice
Our guides are general information for travellers and new residents. They are not legal, financial, medical or immigration advice. For visas and official rules, always check the relevant government website.
Get in touch
Spotted an outdated price or a mistake? See the contact page. We read everything.