Singuyen Tranpham
@singuyen tranpham
Vietnamese citizen
Forum posts
122
About me
Vietnamese
Lives in Ho Chi Minh City
Speaks Vietnamese, English and some little French
Registration: 31 December 2014
A Hidden Crisis in Vietnam by GuestPoster288
Concern over the Corona virus is providing a convenient way of deflecting a much bigger crisis here that is going virtually unreported and totally ignored by the authorities. I had already heard from contacts in the country around the Tra Vinh area ...
To be honest, as a down-stream country VN has very few choices/actions to take. The best solution in my opinion is to deal effectively with those of concern via diplomatic means, especially China, which could help improve the situation less or more. Read More
Ease of internet banking?
I would recommend the ACB and the Sacombank :) Read More
Is it possible to live in Da Nang on $500/month? by vietexplorer
I don't mind living modestly. Some forum members say it's possible to find accommodation under $200, so it looks like living on $500/month is viable. What do you think?
I think it's fine if you just have to pay less than 5 million VND for accommodation ;) Read More
Visa Renewal by fionamaluhia
Hi! I just moved here and my visa is about to expire (I ordered it over the summer when I thought I'd be coming here in November instead of January). I'm looking for a place to go in Vietnam where I can renew it without having to buy a bus ...
As far as I'm concerned, Vietnamese immigration rules have been changed and visa just can be renewed for some specific cases/purposes, which means you don't have to leave and enter the country to get new visa. To have official information, I ... Read More
Looking for work in Vietnam
Initially you could try LinkedIn and/or Vietnamworks as they're 2 most efficient job-seeking/employment platforms in Vietnam. Just remember to be as much detailed as you can as that would help a lot. Wish you luck! Read More
Formula 1 by Arno du Preez
Hi All I hope you are all well. Please advise the best way to watch F1 in Vietnam. It seems like F1 TV is not available in Vietnam. I would hate to miss what's building up to be one of the more exiting seasons of F1. All the best.
In my opinion, there would not be any big change towards public orientation about F1 as Vietnamese people tend to be interested in Olympiad sports such as cycling race. The Grand Prix to take place in Hanoi ultimately is just a commercial show ... Read More
Formula 1 by Arno du Preez
Hi All I hope you are all well. Please advise the best way to watch F1 in Vietnam. It seems like F1 TV is not available in Vietnam. I would hate to miss what's building up to be one of the more exiting seasons of F1. All the best.
F1 is not popular in Vietnam and F1 TV is not available in cable TV service. As far as I'm concerned, you can watch some F1 racing tournament on Starsport, probably broadcast schedule is available on its official website. Read More
AT&T iPhone 8 Plus unlock
I don't know for sure but think you should try asking Viettel - the biggest communication corporation in VN - as they supposedly have necessary means to do this. Wish you luck! Read More
Hello from Australia! by BrittCaarnell
Hey Guys! I'm currently living in Australia and looking for potential work in Vietnam for this year. I've been in talks with a recruitment agency in Hanoi and also applied for work via vietnamworks.com in the Marketing industry. I'm ...
Hi Brit, I think now in VN LinkedIn is also a good platform as it's the most professional social network for employment. And you'd better study and cross-check if feasible your chances and opportunities before leaving Australia as it would ... Read More
Philipine school in ho chi minh city
As far as I'm concerned, there is no particular Philippine international school in HCMC. There are just general international schools run by British, American, Canadian and Australian education corporations. If you are interested, you could ... Read More
Want to split up my 3 weeks in vietnam , HCM and ??????
My suggestion is as following (including travelling time): 1.5 weeks in the North including Hanoi and other provinces such as Quang Ninh, Dien Bien ...; 6 days in Hue, Da Nang and nearby provinces; 6 days in HCMC and other provinces in Mekong ... Read More
Tailor(s) who could speak English for expats
Hi guys, I've supervised 2 Australian interns till Tet holidays and they would like to have their clothes tailor-made (maybe because it's cheaper than in Australia but the quality is similar). So if anyone happens to know any highly-skilled ... Read More
Hotel Manager asking for passport to show police by HenryJo
When I checked in he said he needed to keep passport to show police. I refused as I had seen advice by the British Foreign and Commonwealth office that we keep our passport safe at all times. If I hand it over to hotel staff to keep I cannot be ...
From my own experience, you should keep your authentic passport with you and don't hand or give it up to anyone except in particularly critical situation (security, emergency etc) with accomplished due process. Vndreamer suggested a smart idea ... Read More
Recommendation for cosmetic surgery by Jinglejangle17
Hi All,I am looking for a good hospital/center for cosmetic surgery. I want to get some work done on my nose. Does anyone have experience or can recommend a good hospital with decent rates. Thanks!
Re. cosmetic surgery, I strongly suggest you contact with specialized hospitals for affordable service and good post-operation insurance. In my opinion, you'd better contact Trung Vuong Hospital or Cho Ray Hospital, which are well-known for ... Read More
Is begging good for some people and bad for others? by Libhero
This story about white expats begging in Ho Chi Minh City got me thinking. Why is it okay for a Vietnamese to beg but terrible for a white or expat to beg? This is what I call double standard played by most people from the west. Whether white ...
I don't think expat beggar good no matter what race he/she is. Unless he/she is invalid, he/she should find some better way to solve his/her problem on foreign soil. Just personal opinion :) Read More
Learning Vietnamese language in Denmark by GuestPoster567
Hi there :-) I am in Denmark right now and is landing in Da Nang in january 2019. I would like to learn some Vietnamese language Before landing. Do You have a good link to a learning place on the internet? Please help me to speak some Vietnamese ...
I'm also right here waiting for the answer :cool: Read More
Learning Vietnamese language in Denmark by GuestPoster567
Hi there :-) I am in Denmark right now and is landing in Da Nang in january 2019. I would like to learn some Vietnamese language Before landing. Do You have a good link to a learning place on the internet? Please help me to speak some Vietnamese ...
Hope this could help you anyway: https://en.duolingo.com/ Read More
Recommendation for neighborhoods by flashylawnmower
Hello, I'm moving from the US to HCMC in January and looking for recommendations for Districts and neighborhoods to live in. I'm looking for a serviced apartment in District 1, 2 or 7. Would like to be able to walk to nearby restaurants ...
As you like walk-able neighborhood, I'd recommend Dist 2 or 7 as they were designed with more green outer space and well-cultivated landscape in comparison with urban districts. Just one problem is that these 2 districts during rainy season ... Read More
Price of Apartment in District 7
As far as I'm concerned, average price for a flat/apartment located in Dist. 7 especially Phu My Hung Residence is about 5 billion VND (approximately 250,000 USD), and it's much higher for a private house. In comparison with other locations ... Read More
how about flying a drone in vietnam by yacocati
Hello, I'm planning to visit Vietnam in a month, as I have a Phantom3 drone I was thinking carry it with me, but may be it can represent a problem, acording with local regulations etc, using it and also passing it in the airport custom etc. Do ...
As drone is something sensitive to public security not only in VN but also in other countries, I think you'd better ask the authorities before flying a drone, which could help prevent you from legal trouble ;) Read More
Understanding Vietnamese girls by GuestPoster2698
So on my first trip to Vietnam I met a girl and saw her for a few days. Being the skeptical dude that I am and knowing nothing about Vietnam, the first night that we met I didn't give her my phone number but she and her friend made plans with my ...
I'm afraid that this thread is anything but "Understanding Vietnamese girls" anymore :cool: Read More
Bring my two dogs from the U.S. to Da Nang? by Veterancat48
What has to be done besides a full vet check with papers here in the U.S. prior ? Anyone bring your pets from U.S.? please advise if so. Thank you Cat
Besides I think you should contact your aviation service regarding overseas pet transportation and VN Embassy to check if it's feasible to bring pets into Viet Nam as I suppose there would be some policy or directive about this. Wish you luck! Read More
Where to find local HCMC freelance photographers?
I know a freelance photographer who happens to be fluent in English, just visit his homepage: http://www.rkudo.com/ and see if he fits for your business. :) Read More
Where can I buy an Electric bike in HCMC ? by MyriamGisele
Hello I'm here for at least a year and I need to buy a bike/motocycle. As I'm eco-conscious I would prefer to buy a bike. As I'm a bit lazy :D I'm looking for an electric bike There are only very old post regarding this matteron ...
Hope this could help you anyway https://www.pega.com.vn/xe-dap-dien.html. It's pretty inconvenient as everything is in Vietnamese; however, just pay attention to "xe đạp điện" (electric bike) and "hệ ... Read More
Chefs In Vietnam
Hi Chef, You could start your own business; however, you'd better get an attorney/law adviser for your own to make sure you won't miss due procedure for business application. Initially, make a good budget for your business (in my opinion ... Read More
Where to learn Vietnamese Language ?
You can contact HCMC University of Social sciences and Humanity for your business as they offer Vietnamese language classes for foreigners at their campus on Dinh Tien Hoang Street. Read More
Eamonn Stinson by MCOS
I am looking for anyone who knew my brother, Irish citizen Eamonn Stinson. He died last week in HCMC
I just try to help so if I unwittingly make any mistake/understanding, please put the blame on me. Read More
Eamonn Stinson by MCOS
I am looking for anyone who knew my brother, Irish citizen Eamonn Stinson. He died last week in HCMC
I'm very sorry to know this and think you should contact British Consulate General in HCMC for more information as such cases in accordance with diplomatic code would be reported in detail to the embassy/consulate for due procedure. Read More
Vietnam girl only marries me either..... by Huan07
She told me she will only marry me if i let her work in KTV lounge for 2 years to save up for business venture and settle her financial woes. After 2 years she will stop and ask me to go vietnam stay with her. Or i give her monthly $1k sgd monthly ...
This is 'love of benefit', which is toxic for anyone seeking a healthy relationship. Unless you move on, sorrow and suffering are imminent. Read More
Saigon Vs Shanghai by Mickeyevans99
Hi! I was wondering which city I should live in as an expat english teacher. Saigon or Shanghai? I got a great offer in Shanghai but i'm hesitant, I feel like I would like Ho Chi Minh more.... I'm single, a guy, late 20's, like going ...
Well, Shanghai is more vivid and exciting than HCMC but if you love street life HCMC would never fail you. On the other hand, HCMC in my opinion is much cheaper and Saigon dwellers are more open and friendlier than Shanghai people. Minuses are that ... Read More
Vietnamese passport application. by granturbo
May I know after going to ho chi minh immigration dept get the document for apply passport, what other documents do we need when go to the province imigration dept. My vietnamese friend is from the rural area coutryside province and live alone. Need ...
For Vietnamese passport application, your friend needs to submit a signed application form along with authentic copies of his/her ID, residential certification, bust photo, and of course fees. You'd better get in touch with the Immigration of ... Read More
Synopsis of legal culture in Danang by mikemcle
Hello - I am moving to Danang in December to teach and I am interested in starting a business that I would need to lease building space to accommodate. I have read up on doing this but the more I read it seems the more confused I get :) The main ...
If you follow the situation in Da Nang closely, you wouldn't name it 'the most corruption free' in Viet Nam ;) Read More
Posting photos into Facebook/Messenger message
Well, you can attach the photos as normal files and send it via FB Messenger without any problem, I guess ;) Read More
Is it real to find an IT job in Danang? (IT support, sysadmin role) by Elena_Danang
Hello, dear expats! I'm currently living in Vietnam, Danang city with my husband. Originally we are from Kazakhstan, from beautiful mountain city Almaty. We are planning to stay in Vietnam at least one year or more. We already living here for ...
The fact is that Danang is in big need of IT specialists to afford rapid development of the city; however, as mentioned above local employment can meet demands, opportunities for expats specialized in IT are very small. So you could either find job ... Read More
Pinching Motorcyclist by Explodingsharpies
Today me and my friend were walking on the street (both of us are female and this was during the day) she was walking closest to the street. This random guy motorcyclist came up behind her on his bike and pinched her arm hard and drove off. Does ...
I'm afraid it was kind of sexual harassment or like Thaiger said it was a set-up for a snatch, fortunately you both were safe. Read More
RE: Da Nang vs Ho Chi Minh District 7
Da Nang is cheaper but HCMC is better ;) Read More
Setting up Business in Vung Tau by Daniel Tan
i would like to set up a business in vung tau like coffee or restaurant . anyone can advice me like the cost and the process ? i have friend in vietnam who wish to set up together with me. Thank you.
I think you need at least 10,000 USD as investment capital, which would be paid for location, staff and other concerns in the first 3 months ;) Read More
Black ban by RON RIO
My name is Ron from Australia. I have been trying to get a visa to come back to Vietnam. And have been told I am black banned because I was given a fraudulent visa by a travel agent. Has anyone else had the same experience. And any idea how to fix ...
I suggest you get straight to Vietnamese Bureau of Immigration, which is in charge of issuing, withholding visas and other concerns of immigration, for your business. Please note that the Bureau is a part of Ministry of Public Security while the ... Read More
American looking for friends
Hi Jake, Welcome to HCMC, hope you will enjoy yourself. Cheers! :D Read More
otolaryngology in Ho Chi Minh (no FV hospital)
I strongly suggest you check-in Cho Ray Hospital or University Medical Center HCMC, which are both well-equipped with modern medical facilities and of which doctors are highly competent and efficient in their fields. The point is that they surely ... Read More
Setting up Educational Consultancy in HCMC
Well, I find a link of the Department, which is kind of Portal and inconveniently in Vietnamese only (http://edu.hochiminhcity.gov.vn/Default.aspx). However, you can email them at sgddt@tphcm.gov.vn - vanphong.sotphochiminh@moet.edu.vn or call (+84) ... Read More
Setting up Educational Consultancy in HCMC
As far as I'm concerned, first of all you have to compile an application of opening overseas study consultancy and submit it to the HCMC Department of Education and Training for business permit grant and as soon as you succeed in opening your ... Read More
Looking for an IT Job paying 2200USD a month by Henry.Trujillo
I really want to move e to Vietnam, but I need a job that can pay near $2200 USD A month, if not that, bare minimum 1600 a month to live. Where is a good place to look? I work as an IT Help Desk Employee right now.
Unless you are offered the post of manager, director, kind of Chief of Staff of a company's section or you're in the list of the biggest head hunters, I think it's too high a salary for an ordinary IT expert in Viet Nam. Read More
Local marriage by Kasimi
Is there any Bruneian living or coming to HCMC has or can advice marriage with local Vietnamese Muslim woman? What are step to be taken to avoid scam marriage? How can the woman family be trusted? Would be glad to get advice from Experience Expat ...
You'd better think twice before making any decision. Read More
Home school tutors
Home schooling isn't popular in Viet Nam and I think there would be very few services on which you can count. Why don't you get your kids enrolled full time in an international school as this would be better and more convenient for you than ... Read More
International Schools
Sorry, officially I don't think there would be any. However, you should contact General Consulates of Arab countries such as Kuwait, Qatar etc to find out if they hold something such as limited educational groups at certain levels in Arabian ... Read More
FRENCH - VIETNAMESE DUAL NATIONALITY by henrihamm
Hello all, I have the opportunity to play professional football in Vietnam. However, to do so I would be required to obtain a Vietnamese passport. I was born in Ho Chi Minh City to a French father and Vietnamese mother. I am currently a French ...
As V-League is a professional soccer league which means foreign players could be hired/borrowed/transferred to play officially like Premier League of the UK, I don't see why (sorry if I'm wrong) you insist on obtaining Vietnamese passport to ... Read More
How to get a young lady in VN? by bkksaigon
Hi, I just want to ask for advice from other expats here as I am sensing a lot of attitude from ladies that I try to approach at the shopping malls, shops; they seem to be very serious and avoiding making eye contact and I just have a feeling ...
Well, I think first of all try to be friendly, not to make you look suspicious. Then move to the second step called 'break the ice', say 'hi' and try to figure out something interesting to talk to your target and ask her for coffee, ... Read More
Martial Arts in Ho Chi Minh City by mashamariachernova
Hi Guys, was wondering if someone could recommend martial arts school in Sai Gon, where foreigners could join for trainings. would appreciate ANY help&recommendation!!! Warmest greetings,Masha Maria
Sorry, wrong place, dude :lol: Read More
Martial Arts in Ho Chi Minh City by mashamariachernova
Hi Guys, was wondering if someone could recommend martial arts school in Sai Gon, where foreigners could join for trainings. would appreciate ANY help&recommendation!!! Warmest greetings,Masha Maria
Hi Masha, I think you could try at Liên Phong Training Center managed by Johnny Tri Nguyen, a mixed martial arts athlete and also a Hollywood stuntman in Spider Man 1&2. For more information: https://www.facebook.com/lienphong/. Read More
Foreign Banks Fleeing Viet Nam by gobot
Article of interest to expats. "Fleeing" is hyperbole, and only offers speculation about why banks are leaving/divesting. [url=http://www.atimes.com/article/foreign-banks-fleeing-vietnam/]Foreign Banks Fleeing Viet Nam[/url]
Sorry, I haven't heard of any of 'position inheritance law' in the banking sector. I think it's just kind of unofficial 'professional advantage' which people working in banks make for their interests :rolleyes: Read More
Foreign Banks Fleeing Viet Nam by gobot
Article of interest to expats. "Fleeing" is hyperbole, and only offers speculation about why banks are leaving/divesting. [url=http://www.atimes.com/article/foreign-banks-fleeing-vietnam/]Foreign Banks Fleeing Viet Nam[/url]
One thing for sure is that VN Gov won't let the banking system collapse for whatever reasons and causes as banks and other financial institutions are blood vessels of the economy. In the worst case (hopefully it would never happen), they will do ... Read More
Are there any hospitals with NICU facilities in HCMC ? by Alice-mam
Hi, I'm 29 weeks pregnant. I hope to give birth in Ho Chi Minh City. But I have a possibility of threatened premature delivery. Are there any hospitals in HCMC with NICU facilities? Which hospitals would you recommend to give birth in Ho Chi ...
Hi Alice, You should contact with Tu Du Maternity Hospital or Mekong Maternity Hospital as they have very good staff and service plus facilities, which could help you deal with your situation. Wish you all the best :) Read More
HCM to Vientiane by 1312j
Can anyone point me in the right direction, please? I'm looking to go to Vientiane from HCM and I'm led to believe there's a bus from here to Pakse and then Pakse to Vientiane, but I'm struggling to figure out how to book it. If ...
As far as I'm concerned you have to travel to provinces which are near to the border with Laos, and most of them are in mid-land of Viet Nam (Hue, Quang Tri, Quang Binh, Nghe An). From there, you can take a bus to enter Laos, e.g: you can take a ... Read More
Noisy Neighbours by sanooku
Have you ever come across noisy neighbours (neighbors) in Vietnam? Maybe your next door neighbours liked to party until the early hours of the morning, or maybe they were just noisy during the Tết holidays. How did you approach the problem?, ...
Well, Ginza is like District 1 of HCMC so it would never sleep for sure. I just mean that in general Tokyo is quiet and serene while HCMC is covered with noise all the time. Read More
Noisy Neighbours by sanooku
Have you ever come across noisy neighbours (neighbors) in Vietnam? Maybe your next door neighbours liked to party until the early hours of the morning, or maybe they were just noisy during the Tết holidays. How did you approach the problem?, ...
I'm surprised to see Tokyo in the list of Tunnelrat 69 as I found it quiet and serene during my trip to Japan last year. Read More
Noisy Neighbours by sanooku
Have you ever come across noisy neighbours (neighbors) in Vietnam? Maybe your next door neighbours liked to party until the early hours of the morning, or maybe they were just noisy during the Tết holidays. How did you approach the problem?, ...
Well, at first I will try to talk with them then if things don't get better, simply report it to the authority. Read More
TV work in Saigon by ALifeLessAverage
I am a television professional looking to move to Saigon next year from Dunedin New Zealand to do some study extramurally, I will have a retainer for living costs which I think will be enough, however I am curious if there are television jobs for ...
If you would like to continue working as TV presenter in Viet Nam, I suggest you contact with VTV - the national TV station of Viet Nam for your business. As far as I'm concerned, they sometimes have demand for native speaker/presenters to ... Read More
Travel to CAMBODIA
Well, there are many good travel agencies for you to select. From my own experience, I would recommend Vietravel (https://www.vietravel.com/) for your consideration. Have a nice trip to Cambodia, Ariane :) Read More
Hanoi or HCMC? Which do you think is better by Erikdaviking
It's a good question actually - I would say Hanoi as there is more culture and a bit of cool weather for a few months. What do you think?
As a Saigonese, I vote for HCMC (open-friendly people, vibrant business environment, delicious street food etc) . Besides, I love sunshine, so cold weather of Hanoi is no interest to me :D Read More
How do I know if a Vietnamese girl likes me? by GuestPoster 156
My best friend from American said he had a beautiful 28 year old cousin in Ho Chi Minh City that I should meet. I took him up on his offer and started texting her a few months prior to my trip. I arrived 2 weeks ago and so far have gone out to 3 ...
Hm, I'm sorry to say that initially she's not into you. Now it's up to you whether to keep fighting or to give it all up. From my own experience, Vietnamese women are more complicated than their Western counterparts, sometimes a ... Read More
event photographer needed
Hi Natalienew, Check this out if it could help: http://www.rkudo.com/ Read More
Khang Điền Bình Chánh – BCCI by GuestPoster0147
Hi real estate experts here on forum Does someone know about the Khang Điền Bình Chánh – BCCI project? (Seems to be similar - same houses - to the Rosita Garden project in District 9) All is a little confused. A ...
Hi Andy, From a local's point of view, I think that you should be careful. With property boom, many companies call for financial investment in large-scale real estate projects with promises that investors would get certain land slots for ... Read More
Looking for a job as a German teacher by Simon2015
Hi everyone, I travelled to Vietnam and I found out your country is so nice and beautiful. Now I'm planning to move to Vietnam. Anyone know where I can get a job as a German teacher without university degree?
Maybe there exists some mistake here as Spanish is not among the most popular languages in Viet Nam. In my opinion the most 3 popular must be English, Japanese and Chinese (French is still popular in the North but not across the country anymore). Read More
ATM withdrawal amount by vikingjeger
For those that are interested in larger then an average 2 million withdrawal amount, try MB Bank at 26 Phan Dinh Phung street. Was able to withdraw 5 million
As far as I know, the max. withdrawal amount of BIDV ATM is 5 million VND for each turn. You'd better try it. Read More
Vietnamese language
You can contact HCMC University of Humanity and Social Sciences at 10-12 Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1 for your information. Read More
Meeting others by Shamooowne
Hi guys I know this is ironic as I'm on an expat meetup site, but the meetups are not very often - the ones I'm interested in. What are some other ways to meet people here? I'm 25 years old, interested in fitness, art and wanna find ...
As a local, really sorry to know that other locals try to make advantage of meeting expats during kind of get-together or meet-up for business such as property sale, it's really unprofessional, but at least I'm not among them ;) Read More
Meeting others by Shamooowne
Hi guys I know this is ironic as I'm on an expat meetup site, but the meetups are not very often - the ones I'm interested in. What are some other ways to meet people here? I'm 25 years old, interested in fitness, art and wanna find ...
Hi Shamooowne, If you don't mind you could create mingling groups of locals and expats for frequent meetings as to exchange information and learn more about others' cultures, lifestyles ;) Read More
Chef looking for work.. by BenJTaylor
[b]HI guys, i'm a chef and have been for most of my career in North Yorkshire, England. I moved to HCMC last month with my partner who is an english teacher at an international school. Due to her job we have accommodation secured in D1 for the ...
I don't know exactly, just think that 300 USD for the first month in case of a small food stand and 1000 USD for a small restaurant/diner is quite good for start-up. Read More
Chef looking for work.. by BenJTaylor
[b]HI guys, i'm a chef and have been for most of my career in North Yorkshire, England. I moved to HCMC last month with my partner who is an english teacher at an international school. Due to her job we have accommodation secured in D1 for the ...
Hi Taylor, I think you've got a good chance to begin your start-up here, people in HCMC really love eating-out and try new things. So just a small English food-stand then grows into big business is realistic. However, in case you don't have ... Read More
Divorce by havtajlee
HiI everyone, I am British and live in UK now. Have been married to Vietnamese man for 5 years. We separated in 2015 and he returned back to Saigon. He has deliberately moved, changed his number and I don't know where he is. I only know where ...
It seems that now we see 'the other side of the coin' ;) Read More
Divorce by havtajlee
HiI everyone, I am British and live in UK now. Have been married to Vietnamese man for 5 years. We separated in 2015 and he returned back to Saigon. He has deliberately moved, changed his number and I don't know where he is. I only know where ...
I think you should consult with HCMC Department of Justice as there they have a section dealing with issues between Vietnamese citizens and foreigners including those of marriage. On the other hand, Vietnamese laws justify unilateral divorce for ... Read More
divorce rates in vietnam by MarkinNam
how many divorces in Vietnam are caused via eating pho and not staying with rice ? and what are the risks for foreigners?
Well, I think the rate is 50/50 depending on every certain situation which creates the risk of divorce eg: flash pleasure like 'bia om' or long-term intimate relationship like 'ngoai tinh' - extra-marital affair. And when it comes ... Read More
Maternity Leave for Expat by MarbleNgo
Hello everyone want to ask, what is the general policy for expat lady taking maternity leave in vietnam? will they be paid or partially paid? Is it up to general policy of vietnam
As far as I know, foreign companies/corporations operating in Viet Nam must comply comprehensively with Vietnamese law. So in case of maternity law, expat ladies get the same treat as Vietnamese women , which means full 6 months off-work with ... Read More
Generosity of Vietnamese people by lifeissimple
I think this story deserves to be shared on this forum. http://tuoitrenews.vn/society/42088/tourist-and-saigon-bike-theft-victim-overwhelmed-by-vietnamese-generosity As a big country like Vietnam, there are also many nice and kind hearted people ...
Well, I don't think that we should take politics anytime :) Read More
In retrospect, would you move again to Vietnam? by Christine
Hi all, If you had to look back on your expat experience in Vietnam, would you heartily say "lets do it again"? From the preparation stage to your actual everyday life in your new country, what did you enjoy the most? Would you do certain ...
To be frank, Viet Nam is still a developing country with many issues in social aspects. However, if you like to live a simple but pleasant life, this country is a good destination :) Read More
I'm going to tell you something you may not want to hear by sushimonger
First let me tell you that I speak from two years of experience on the ground in Vietnam....80% of it outside of Saigon...in the real Vn with real government officials, police chiefs, business peeps of all types and sizes. If you spend all you ...
Don't know why this reads so pessimistic; however, if reality is as dull as your opinion I bet that there would be no foreign entrepreneurs/companies would invest and operate their business in Viet Nam. Read More
Understanding Vietnamese girls by GuestPoster2698
So on my first trip to Vietnam I met a girl and saw her for a few days. Being the skeptical dude that I am and knowing nothing about Vietnam, the first night that we met I didn't give her my phone number but she and her friend made plans with my ...
Women are the most complex creatures in the world, so don't try to understand them, just try to know them :D Read More
Kickboxing class anywhere in Saigon....???
Hi there, You can contact Lien Phong Training Center, a free-style martial arts center hosted by Johnnie Tri Nguyen, a former Hollywood stunt man for your interest. This is for your reference: https://www.facebook.com/lienphong/. Good luck :top: Read More
eBooks vs dead tree books by 70 years old
I lost a fair amount of my personal library with the fall of Saigon. I also travel a fair amount and don't like carrying hundreds of dead tree things with me. But, with a laptop or preferably iPad, I have access to thousands and thousands of ...
To me the feeling of reading a real book always beats Ebook, I mean reading a paper book is like meeting someone in person and it's so much better than talking with someone over Facetime or Skype. Please excuse me if I'm old-fashioned :D Read More
Passport Translated and Notarized?
Hi there, I think you should contact HCMC Department of Justice for more information as they have translation section. On the other hand, you can consult with Immigration Agency of HCMC Department of Public Security as they probably could help you ... Read More
Consultancy services rendered but clients (companies) not paying up! by jac87
Hi all, my first post here and hope to get some feedback from you guys.. My vietnamese people are telling me that there are actually some clients especially the big companies who will NOT PAY up after consultancy services is rendered. Is that true? ...
I think that if you have any official document(s) such as contract/agreement as foundation for the collaboration, you could pursue legal measures in case of conflict. Read More
Seek for wisdom & good vibes. by ScarletNguyen
Hi! I've never spitted out in public but I think it's better to reach out for some help instead of burying my head in sand. Since last December, I found out I'm with dysthymia when one Taiwanese friend exposed his story on FB. I'm ...
Before taking medicine, I think you should consult with doctor first Scarlet as there would be no typical diagnosis for everyone regarding the same symptom or disease. Read More
Seek for wisdom & good vibes. by ScarletNguyen
Hi! I've never spitted out in public but I think it's better to reach out for some help instead of burying my head in sand. Since last December, I found out I'm with dysthymia when one Taiwanese friend exposed his story on FB. I'm ...
Dear Scarlet, Thanks for sharing your story. I think that at some point of our lifetime, we have to face instead of evading challenges/problems which aren't solved by anyone else but ourselves. Just try to love yourself and your son every ... Read More
Martial Arts in Vietnam by senseiande
Hello, I am returning to Vietnam next week... I will be in Hanoi, Thanh Hoa Province (i.e. Nha Trang & Chap Tham) and Ho Chi Minh City.. I am a martial artist that has studied, trained, mastered and taught martial arts from China, Japan and ...
Hi guy, In HCMC, there's a martial art studio named Lien Phong owned and run by Johnny Tri Nguyen, a kung-fu master and a former Hollywood stunt man. I've heard that there they play mixed martial arts including Jujitsu ... Read More
SOUTH AFRICANS - air ticket and visa questions by MichelletoCambodia
I realise the laws are different for every country, so I am keen to hear from SOUTH AFRICAN passport holders. I am travelling to Vietnam, arriving in Hanoi 02 Feb 2017 to come and do volunteer work. Do we need the following: DO WE NEED A RETURN ...
Hi Michelleto, I'm not South African passport holder but in my opinion, you should apply for visa at Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate General in South Africa because you have a plan for arriving in Viet Nam (volunteer work) and it would be more ... Read More
What should I do for my marriage problem? by BinhDuongLee
I am Korean, born in 1983, I have been married with a Vietnamese woman for 2 years now. (+1 year of dating) and we live in Vietnam now. She is everything I've ever wanted and I thought I totally devoted to her. I was happy every single day ...
If marriage is hell and you can't do anything to improve or revitalize it, the best solution is getting out of that as fast as possible. However, make sure that you have tried your best to save it even a small help so that you won't be ... Read More
Is 1700 USD enough for two to live in Hanoi? by jritoo
Hi, I want to know whether $ 1700 per month will be enough for two in Hanoi? will it cover fully furnished accommodation, electricity, good speed internet, travelling & entertainment. I want to also know whether domestic help is available & is it ...
For 2 persons in 3 months, I guess ^^ Read More
Hotel musicians looking for work Feb 2017
Hi abcrosc, I don't know for sure if you could find some jobs as resident musicians at hotels as you wish; however, tentatively you could apply for playing music at some cafeterias, restaurants which join mainly expats with certain rate of ... Read More
Are native English teachers better than Vietnamese English teachers? by I do believe
This is the subject of debate in every ESL teacher forum I have ever visited. Logic would state that, yes, when it comes to teaching something, those who are experts are better qualified, and who could be better qualified to teach English than those ...
In my opinion, native teachers of English are more advantaged than their Vietnamese counterparts in the field of teaching skills, especially listening and speaking. However, regarding teaching grammar or writing I don't think there are any big ... Read More
Living with Vietnamese girlfriend....what problems may I encounter? by divedog49
I am thinking of living with my Vietnamese girlfriend for one year in the Hoi an area . I am American and she is a citizen of Vietnam. Will it be problematic to live together there ? I would appreciate any advice.
Well, we're open now so I don't think there would be any problem for a cohabitation of a foreigner man and a local woman in Viet Nam. Unless you guys make things that could be considered 'unhealthy' or harmful to your neighborhood or ... Read More
GOVERNMENT CURRENCY CHANGE
I think the best way is to exchange a certain large sum of VND into USD or EUR and gold, then keep it yourself. It's no use putting USD or gold into a Vietnamese bank account because interest rates of those is almost 0% or not higher than 2%, ... Read More
Dating in HCMC - is this normal or am I being scammed? by BT1989
Hi, expat from Australia checking in. Recently moved to HCMC as a single guy, with that being the case obviously active on the dating scene. Still trying to get my head around all he customs/etiquette but I'm getting there. I have an account on ...
I don't think that it's so often even in America that people tend to have sex on their first date. Everything takes time, and it depends but sex on first date is really very unusual. Read More
Dating I HCMC by jinxedta
Okay Just throwing this out there. FYI (i'm not lookiong for anyone on here i know this is not a dating site) Just some advice. I've been here in HCMC for a few months, I only have one question Where are all the good girls in this town. I've ...
When talking about interracial dating in VN, it's often about foreign men especially Caucasian with Vietnamese women, so what about Vietnamese men and foreign women? In my opinion, this rarely happens due to stereo types and other issues. Read More
How and Where to apply for Vietnamese Citizenship? by thuy4tien
We left Vietnam during war in 1975.....lived in America since. We have American passports. We are currently in Vietnam and plan to apply Vietnamese Citizenship. We still kept our birth certificates from Vietnam..... so we hope the process would be ...
I think there is only 1 Vietnamese Embassy in the USA in Washington DC, the other two must be Consulate General and Consulate. Read More
Where to buy Yunnan clay steam pot
Hi dude, I think you could go for a try at District 5, which is well-known as the China Town of HCMC. Remember to bring this picture for illustration as it would help. Good luck! Read More
Where to watch American football in HCMC by Hieumi
Hi guys, I have an American friend who is very keen on watching American football. He just moved to Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam and wants to find some nice bars/restaurants where show American football. Many thanks to who can give me some ...
Hi Hieumi, I think your friend could watch American Football (AF) on cable TV through Fox Sport; however, he should have advance schedule as most of the time is for English football, tennis, UFC and others. Read More