Questions about moving to Hanoi

Move there on a tourist permit and then apply for a work permit after you get in.

Asking for a work permit before you arrive is trouble and delay.

EVEN worse is a journalist. I hope your wife's passport doesn't say journalist as an occupation. VietNam doesn't like journalists unless their work has been checked out.

Also, to work in VN as a journalist you have to get a licence from one or two ministries. Sh might get a position with a travel related magazine then she can do French and English copy for a single salary!

Remember Ha Noi, and the north, has cool temperate weather in the December >> March period. Warm outer clothing needed.

If you don't are about fashion, you can get fluffy jackets in the Russian Market (Foreigner sizes).

SaPa usually has snow in January>>February!