Where can I find affordable hotel or service apartment to lodge?

@godsontn Well, I don't know how to give you a piece of advice. However, based on my experience of working at a service apartment in Hanoi a few years ago, I think you can research Bloom at 72 Dich Vong Hau. Many clients have highly appreciated the apartment for both facilities and staff attitude. The only pity is that the rate is rather high, from around 700,000 dong to 1,000,000 dong per night. I am not sure if the rate has been changed up to now. Let's try.

@nhat1987

Thanks for your response.  However, 700,000 to 1,000,000 VND per night is quite high. I might be staying for extended period of time, so I need something really affordable.

    Hi all,I’m currently in Nam Dinh but will be traveling to Hanoi tomorrow morning. I’m looking for a temporary accommodation for a few days or more (I’m currently seeking for ESL job in the North & don’t know how long it might take to secure one). Please I need advice as to where I can check/search. Thank you!       -@godsontn

Hi there godsontn.

I'm sorry I can't give you any specific hotel recommendations, but assuming that you're not too familiar with Hanoi I suggest you base yourself (at least for the time being) in the Quận Tây Hồ (English; West Lake District). There you will be able to find many English speaking expats.

You'll find many English speaking people (both foreigners and VN) congregating at cafes and small bistros in/around a street named Xuân Diệu (Link). It's a relaxed and very friendly area. There's a small eatery with excellent pate' bánh mỳ there, just at the lake's edge on Từ Hoa Street. Quite a few smaller hotels around there as well.

Let us know how everything goes tomorrow. Best of luck in your job hunt.

    @nhat1987
Thanks for your response.  However, 700,000 to 1,000,000 VND per night is quite high. I might be staying for extended period of time, so I need something really affordable.
   

    -@godsontn

The affordable hostels suitable for foreigners in Hà Nội (priced between ₫200,000 - ₫300,000 VNĐ) are located in the Hàng Buồm neighborhood of the Old Quarter in Hoàn Kiếm district:

(Google Maps link)

You will be able to get a cheaper price if you commit to an extended stay

Good luck!