Weather

Q: How are the winters in Hanoi?  Are the houses/apartments generally well-insulated and heated during winter time?

A: Winters in Hanoi usually don’t get extremely cold, although with climate change, the weather can sometimes be unpredictable. It’s still a good idea to bring some warm clothes, especially if you plan to travel to colder regions during the holidays.

As for housing, insulation really depends on the building, but most houses and apartments are not heavily insulated by Western standards. However, many places have air conditioners with heating mode, which work quite effectively for warming individual rooms.

Q: I've been reading that the humidity ruins quite a number of paper prints and photographs, so I'm thinking of not bringing my framed photos along. What would you recommend?

A:Yes, Hanoi’s humidity can affect paper prints, photographs, books, leather items, and even clothing over time, especially during the most humid months. However, experiences vary depending on the apartment, ventilation, and how well humidity is managed. Another challenging period is often called “Moldy March,” when temperatures begin warming up but nights are still cool and damp, creating ideal conditions for mold and mildew. Most teachers use dehumidifiers throughout their homes — for a two-bedroom apartment, two or three units are quite common. With proper humidity control, many people are able to protect their photos and prints without major issues.

Q: How do down comforters and wool clothing fare in the humidity during the summer time?  Should I not bring these at all?

A: They'll come in handy, as it usually gets cold for a little while, but mold does exist in a lot of houses. Dehumidifiers help.  Also, you can purchase little moisture trappers to put in closets that will work in addition to dehumidifiers. 

Q: How bad can the air quality get? 

A: Air quality in Hanoi can vary quite a bit throughout the year and is generally worse during the fall and winter months. On some days, the AQI can reach unhealthy levels, especially when there is little wind or rain. While it is typically not as severe as in some major cities in China or India, it is still something many newcomers notice and need time to adjust to.

Many teachers and expats use air purifiers at home, especially in bedrooms, and these can either be brought from home or purchased easily in Vietnam. Some people also choose to wear masks outdoors on higher pollution days.

Teachers and families can check the school’s live AQI readings here: UNIS Hanoi AQI Monitor