Not sure if this list still holds true,
https://www.parisiangentleman.com/b...t-and-affordable-tailoring-in-south-east-asia but I looked up styleforum on vietnam,
Went to Hanoi previously and bought some RTW and bespoke but more likely MTM shirts/pants, not too fussy as they fit very well and were able to do it within a week (HTailor).
PhamBros could not match my timing but was significantly cheaper, bought RTW pants there but don't like it as much after wearing for awhile
Long tailor is recommended by styeforum in Hanoi but sadly I didn't get a reply and read he is usually busy and does subcontracting for bigger places.
Didn't spend much time in city and travelled between cities using express tour bus companies like Hai Au that go basically everywhere, just look up the info online cause there are slower buses as well.
Hoan Kiem lake on the weekend is great, lots of random stuff like public group singing, filming, street games going on.
SIM card used Viettel since the military supposedly has the best coverage, used in Sapa no issue, you get data only, calls will need additional top up. eSIM I read got quite a few hoops to go through so I didn't bother.
Railway street still closed, read that tourist caused the train to emergency stop a year ago or something.
Sapa -
In town, tried the Red Dao herbal bath, Le Gecko cafe has nice pastries and coffee can people watch on the upper floors. Stay near the lake if you want convenience to the bigger restaurants. There is 1 gym there but it's surprisingly good, machines, racks, oly plates in good condition, just remember to bring own water.
Went with trekking tour for my homestay, took 6hrs (with breaks) to trek from the city to the accommodation (proper toilet, private rooms available, cute dogs and cats). The treks have 30 degree hills up and down, strongly suggest you pick up a fallen bamboo stick or ask guide chop one for you haha. The drops at some
places will surely break bones if it doesn't kill you but get to see nice views. Apparently alot of city people hustling as fake Hmong homestays. Wouldn't buy the stuff from the old lady/children touts but I think the indigo dyed scarves might be decent as it's a local wild grown plant in that area, can ask your guide what stuff is garbage and what isn't lol.
Fansipan didn't climb as the forecast was bad weather and took the cable car up, spoke to staff there that a permit is required. 3 routes supposedly easiest takes 6hrs and others should be done over 2 or more days.
Cash -
Could only change at airport or jewelry store that take multiple currencies (best rate given).
Bank had a better rate but need to fill form and record your ID, this only possible at major city smaller cities will reject by law as told to me by bank staff.
Rates were barely better in SG vs airport but significantly better at jewelry store.
Shoes -
Fugashin has a couple of outlets and the one near Hoan Kiem lake has a very personable english speaking staff. HCM is the production site and where I'll go to next since I found no sizing available (47)
Saw that they have tailoring there too.
Plan to visit HCM and maybe Hoi An next.
I've read mostly horror stories for quick work tailoring and shoes at Hoi An TBH though, would like to hear if anyone has tried making shoes and clothes formal/casual with good results.
Anyone have tried tailoring casual stuff like linen pants or denim jeans? Not looking for rare cloth or selvedge, just tired of looking for stuff that fits. I've read BKK can be quite competitive in price but tailors quite set in their own style.
Can the mods separate into North, Central, South and possibly general info?
Would be nice to browse per area and maybe drop off a google map for others to use.
I compiled a list of some places in Hanoi to eat, shop, visit but mostly generic and just for me to see what food options I had nearby.