Sean
@laidbackfreak
English expat in Vietnam
Forum posts
976
Contacts
32
About me
English
Lives in HCMC
Speaks English, and some people would argue with that!
Registration: 10 August 2010
Tattoo Shops? by Aescleah
Can anyone recommend a tattoo shop that is clean and professional...like up to North American standards if possible. Thanks!
Exile ink arent the only people who bring in there own supplies, as I've brought in plenty for the place I use. Most of the decent places know better than to use local supplies, mostly cos they cant get them but also they dont last when they do. ... Read More
Honda SH 150i Made in Vietnam - Exhaust Upgrade RSVP by smaingot
Hello to all, I recently moved to Chiang Mai, Thailand from Vancouver, Canada. I just purchased a 2013 Honda Sh 150i that was made in Vietnam. I am looking to upgrade the exhaust to Akrapovic, Yoshimura, Two Brothers, or anything else that will ...
Cheers for the info Simon, not been down this street. I've got a 2013 SHi (VN model). I've got a few suppliers in D5 and and D9. for mirrors shocks and brake discs. Always looking for new places. Read More
Cambodia Visa
I did the e-visa when I went in august this year. The biggest advantage to this, is the fact you only get a stamp in your pasport and not a whole page taken up with the visa and a stamp.... Kinda handy when your running low on free pages in your ... Read More
Gotta love crooked airport customs ppl lol by mikeymyke
Came into Tan Son Nhat airport in Saigon for my upcoming wedding and before I came, I searched the net, as well as the Canada and USA official govt websites, and all indicate u can bring $7000 max without declare. so i decide bring $7000 even. Now ...
I'm surprised you didnt find the limit had been dropped from $7k to $5k as it was changed a while back can't recall if this year or last. I through it into google and came up as $5k on the first hit....... Read More
motos----*******Where to rent a CBR???******* by Hans.b
Hi! I've been living in SG for over 1 year renting a PCX for 2.5million per month but would really like to find a CBR, GSXR or R6. Can anyone help me? I've been all around Pham Ngu Lao and the only highline bikes a few places have are SH's but ...
I'm hoping the same thing, I've got to renew my licence next year so I'm hoping I can just do the same for my A2 at the same time. However I'm not holding my breath. Because doing a figure 8 on something over 175cc especially a motorcycle with ... Read More
Typing in Vietnamese With Diacritics by ChrisFox
I'm going to do a series of posts on how to set up your PC or mobile device to type Vietnamese with the diacritics. You should be able to type người nước ngoại, not nguoi nuoc ngoai or ngu'o'\i nu'o'/c ngoa.i. The ...
On windows, I just use Uni key same deal as vps but far more common in my experience. Read More
Long Term Motobike Rental including delivery? by missmae
So I decided to get my VN Driving License soon. However I would like to practice more on a moped/non automatic scooter like the Honda Wave/Dream since they use this for the test. Can anybody recommend me where to get one? I just need it for about a ...
Thi Cafe in Pham Ngu Lao do a good rate, relaiable and trustworthy. :) Read More
Problem with exchanging foreign Driver License into Vietnamese by missmae
So i checked up all forums, website etc for the procedure of exchanging my German DL into a Vietnamese one. According to them I need - a copy of my passport - 3 months visa + (i have a 5 years exemption) - notarized and translated version of my ...
That's the issue there, if it does not mention it on the DL then as far as VN (and pretty much everywhere) you don't have the licence. Read More
christmas bonus for nanny by Rany01
hi guys, can someone give me an advice, please? How much christmas bonus do you provide normally to your nanny? I know, it depends on their effort and performance. But in general? 20, 40 or 100% more ot top to her regular salary? Our nanny is ...
Agreed with Budman and with that in mind are you giving her a bonus at Tet as well as now? She might be expecting Tet but not xmas so may want to clear that first. Read More
Expats! What are your jobs? by mikeymyke
Even though my fiance and I made the choice to come to live in Canada, we also agreed to live in Vietnam should her application fail somehow. But as a foreigner who doesn't speak much Vietnamese, my job prospects seem limited to just teaching ...
I write software at home. Some for remote clients, some to sell online. iPhone, iPad, Mac. Coming out of a career mostly in Windows. iPhone/iPad: Photo World, find geotagged photos iPhone: NotifEye, alerts for Facebook Mac: OmniPop Lite & Pro, ... Read More
Business visa without Degree for Teachers?
What you are trying to acquire is a work permit and temporary residence card, not a business visa. B3 (business visa) is easily obtained, but it does not entitle you to live and work here. The BA or equivalent is just that, the equivalent is 5 ... Read More
Free English newspaper or magazine in Saigon? by Ogiwara Kensuke
Hi guys. I've just moved to Saigon and i'm currently seeking for some free English newspaper or magazine here. Do you know any of those and where can I get it? Thanks alot
Try spotted cow they usually have a few copies Read More
Free English newspaper or magazine in Saigon? by Ogiwara Kensuke
Hi guys. I've just moved to Saigon and i'm currently seeking for some free English newspaper or magazine here. Do you know any of those and where can I get it? Thanks alot
Asia Life and Word magasines are both free, usually find them in various bars around town. Read More
A few games of pool and beers in HCMC by steveinsaigon
Hi all, I've recently arrived in HCMC to live here for a while and I'd be up for a few games of pool and some beers if anyone's interested. Cheers, Steve p.s - I mean 'ordinary' pool, nothing else!
If the rain stays away, I'll be in Angels from around 6pm-8pm tonight. Read More
Billiards in Saigon? by David2882
Was wondering if there was anywhwere that foreigners got together to play some pool in HCMC?? Or is there anyone on here that would like to get together to play some 8ball?? I am not that great of a player but would like to get together and play ...
Chris, don't suppose any of them are break cues ? What makes ? Read More
Billiards in Saigon? by David2882
Was wondering if there was anywhwere that foreigners got together to play some pool in HCMC?? Or is there anyone on here that would like to get together to play some 8ball?? I am not that great of a player but would like to get together and play ...
Hi Steve, I still play most Fridays (not the next couple of weeks sadly) and odd evenings at Angels on Le Lai, so if you fancy a game drop me a line. Read More
2013 Honda Sh 150 Vietnamese Made? by bnvmri943
Good day! I m currently in the mist of looking for Honda Sh150 the imported Sh150 cost around USD30000 Its too much to pay for scooter. the same model cost USD4500 in the States. So I kept my options to the locally made. To be honest both are ...
I'd agree with this, I'm not a fan of the Vespa style. Read More
Inflatable boats, anyone seen any for sale? by bluenz
Been after an inflatable boat for a while now, preferably Avon, or Zodiac brand, around 12' - 14', suitable for a small outboard motor. Anyone seen anything like that in VN?
Coleman store in Crescent Mall in PMH had some on display last time I was there. Read More
Serious question to all you starving college students. by Tran Hung Dao
I've seen alot of interest in college students coming on this Expat-Blog to inquire about language exchanges and since I'm a sucker for Charity projects, I have some serious questions to ask all you "starving college students" (meaning POOR students ...
http://static.comicvine.com/uploads/original/10/107015/3167986-6769010366-tumbl.jpg Read More
Extra work
Surely some of your local friends can give you some better suggestions than a bunch of expats living here. The only expats I know who work from home are either teachers doing private lessons and the odd programmer. I occasionally work from home, but ... Read More
Looking for a Job (IT Consultant, Business Analyst, Project Manager..) by Toby_Di
my name is Tobias Dietz, I am 22 years old and a student for International Management for Business and Information Technology at the Cooperative State University Stuttgart, Germany. Currently I participate in an integrated degree program at IBM ...
IT jobs here for expats are scarce, and those that do become available are usually seeking experienced people for senior management roles. As a business consultant I'd expect several years of experience to back up your education, even for a junior ... Read More
Bank repo's in VN by Budman1
Can anybody explain how this works in VN. I know guy (not a friend by any means) that put his house and land up as collateral for a loan. From what I understand he couldn't even make the first few payments in full and now 8 months later hasn't been ...
No idea on the legal situation, but I'm well aware that banks will try and hide these losses for as long as possible before declaring them. There are numerous reasons for this, but not least because if they start to reposes all the properties that ... Read More
Where to buy sushi meat?
Yep there are a couple of shops on this street, they've got a reasonable selection of goods, but I'm not sure about sushi ingredients. Read More
Relocating to Vietnam & would like to import my motorbike by Vincenzo Raiti
Hello all I'm hoping someone can help me here, I'm an expat working & living in Dakar. I'm about to relocate to HCMC & I would like to import my KTM 950 Adventure S motorbike I purchased in Dakar to HCMC. Can anyone tell me what paperwork is needed ...
Yes but not legally recorded on the system, so if you have an accident and someone is hurt you are in even more trouble, than having no licence at all! Read More
Alright, a storm is coming our way. by Tran Hung Dao
In case you don't have propaganda speakers in your village (or totally missed it on the Internet), there is a big storm coming our way (Southern Việt Nam, Vũng Tàu, Hồ Chí Minh ...
Well that one was a bit of a damp squib... lets hope the one on Sunday is better, gotta love a good storm ;D Read More
Hmm...what do you miss? by tintinmiami2013
Expats, What do you miss from your respective countries beside your love ones? Do share. Tin Tin
What do I miss from home? Nothing! Don't get me wrong I occasionally want some foods or drink that I cannot find here, but tbh I live without them quite happily and doubt I would have had the food or drink any more if I was back home. Read More
Long way to be global city? by Sploke77
It will be a long way before this city reaches global standards. My latest example is S follows : Even a so-called 5 star hotel like the Pullman does not believe in having sufficient car parks. As the citizens get more affluent, cars will increase. ...
anything that discourages cars coming into d1 is fine by me :) Read More
"Best Pizza restaurant in Vietnam" by mab0918
Who among you guys have tried Pizza 4P's ? How's your experience? :D Pizza 4P's Address : 8/15 Le Thanh Ton St., Dist.1 HCM City, Vietnam :)
Pendalsco's make a great pizza :) Italian style not US style...! Read More
Rich or Poor, how are you treated? by ancientpathos
Greetings, Just curious about how other expats are treated. My fashion sense has been cargo shorts, pull over shirts and sandals for my first year. Everywhere I have traveled the people are friendly and to my surprise I am saluted a lot by the men ...
Think it only affects us with slightly more storage in that area than others :) I'd forgotten about the hair stroking, yes had that a lot too, always makes me smile too. Read More
Rich or Poor, how are you treated? by ancientpathos
Greetings, Just curious about how other expats are treated. My fashion sense has been cargo shorts, pull over shirts and sandals for my first year. Everywhere I have traveled the people are friendly and to my surprise I am saluted a lot by the men ...
I can't say I've been treated as rich or poor, but I've certainly been saluted on many occasions, everyone from my security guards at work to police when stopped (but they are required to salute everyone). As an ex serviceman I find it kinda strange ... Read More
only 12 days of annual leave? by NicoleMonika
Is annual leave in Vietnam typically only the legal minimum of 12 days a year or do companies tend to be more generous? How many national holidays is there in addition to the 12 days?
Think like colinspace says it all, depends who you work for... I currently 22 days off plus public holidays :D Read More
Eye doctor
American Eye Centre in D7, awesome staff and facilities. http://www.americaneyecentervn.com/?lang=en Read More
Cuban goods (Rum? Cigars?) in HCMC? by toiyeuthitmeo
Hi, Wondering if the Communist nations share such goods with each other? Can I find good Cuban rum and/or cigars in HCMC?
There is a good cigar outlet in D1 genuine Cubans. Can't recall the name, but it's at the bottom of the Sun Wah tower in Nguyen Hue. Read More
I bought a 50000 MOBIFONE prepaid phone card, but how to put it on? by Donysisi
Dial what? By the why, how to check the balance?
Can't you just dial someone's phone and ask them the number? Double check the number again. For MobiFone, it has to start with one of these series assigned.I'm with mobifone and my number is not in that range..... Read More
Any Advice for Scooter/Motorbike Rental/Buying? by Amanda The Great
Hey all, I've just moved to Thao Dien and would love the independence of a motor bike or scooter. If you've got any experience with buying/renting them, I'd appreciate hearing it:-) Recommendations concerning companies to use, etc, also welcome! ...
around 21500 per litre, but check the garages for more accurate price. Read More
Any Advice for Scooter/Motorbike Rental/Buying? by Amanda The Great
Hey all, I've just moved to Thao Dien and would love the independence of a motor bike or scooter. If you've got any experience with buying/renting them, I'd appreciate hearing it:-) Recommendations concerning companies to use, etc, also welcome! ...
Anyone just arriving look at renting first, that way you get to try a few bikes out before you go and buy a lemon(bad bike). If you're only here for a year if it was my I'd probably rent, no hassle about maintaining etc. and no problems when you ... Read More
Signing a house rental contract by markeggs
My girlfriend and I just signed a contract to rent a house for 1 year in District 1. We did several walkthroughs and everything looked good, but yesterday when we went to measure the rooms for our beds, we went during the downpour and to our ...
Your a lucky man and sounds like a good landlord there buddy :) Ps stick your healthcare under a separate thread, it'll get lost in here soon..... Read More
Signing a house rental contract by markeggs
My girlfriend and I just signed a contract to rent a house for 1 year in District 1. We did several walkthroughs and everything looked good, but yesterday when we went to measure the rooms for our beds, we went during the downpour and to our ...
All depends on the terms of the contract! Without knowing what's in it the no one can say... Apart from yes you can get out of it at any time, but you will lose your deposit at the very least. If there aren't further penalties. Read More
Where to buy BODY PAINT or FACE PAINT? by sofimofi
Hello all, Does anybody know where I can buy body paint or face paint or Halloween makeup for the whole body? I basically need to paint my whole body a bright blue but I have no idea where they sell body paint.... Thank you for any ...
There is an art shop in Snap Cafe in D2 that sells face paint. Might be worth a look. Read More
Best way to bring money into Vietnam for Australians by BIGJED1975
Hello, I'm looking for the best way to bring money into Vietnam from Australia. I've considered many options all with pros, cons and fees. 1 Taking AUD cash then converting it 2 Converting AUD to US. 3 Setting up a VN bank account then wiring it ...
^^ agreed with CTH, but no need to convert from AUD to USD, that's just bonkers :D Read More
pub for the evening by howietp
Any suggestions for a decent pub this evening? Not a loud nightclub, but just a relaxed place to have a couple of beers or wine.
No not at all, but it should be able to adapt to the customers on any given night, this place has a jumped up little guy running the place who doesn't know the meaning of customer service. Some of the staff are great and friendly and even apologise ... Read More
"Hong Kong" market by Guest6832
Hi All I have been to several markets in HCMC but keep getting told I should go to the Hong Kong market. Only problem is I cant find it anywhere - have looked online, guidebooks etc - Can ayone tell me where it is????
Well I've asked several of my staff and none of them know the "Hong Kong" market and all ask if I mean Cho Lon... A quick google only throws up a Seafood market but nothing else. So who told you about this market? Read More
"Hong Kong" market by Guest6832
Hi All I have been to several markets in HCMC but keep getting told I should go to the Hong Kong market. Only problem is I cant find it anywhere - have looked online, guidebooks etc - Can ayone tell me where it is????
Depending on what you are after, every district has it's own market even out in Binh Duong. Once you get away from the tourist areas, prices will come closer to locals, but you will never get the true local price. Read More
pub for the evening by howietp
Any suggestions for a decent pub this evening? Not a loud nightclub, but just a relaxed place to have a couple of beers or wine.
bloody awful place, it doesn't know if it wants to be a sports bar or a live music place. It tries to be both, but fails miserably. They can never get the sports set up right without flicking around the channels during games and the band is mediocre ... Read More
Temporary Residence Cards without WP by sfaith
Hi folks, As some of you may be aware, there are certain people with connections offering TRC without needing a work permit (which is, AFAIK, a prerequisite before you apply for TRC). The prices vary, from $500 to $750. I know one guy who is ...
This one to be aware of for those who buy one and are looking for work legitimately. It can\will cause problems should they find work and the "new" employer is seeking to sponsor them. It's ok if you are aware of it, but I know of someone who ... Read More
U.S. Veterans...Roll-Call. by Tran Hung Dao
With the recent passing of General Võ Nguyên Giáp, I've been thinking about the phrase "old soldiers never die...they just fade away". It's from General MacArthur's farewell speech in 1951. ...
I'm of the same attitude, I served in the UK army, but that was my job and I did it for myself and my comrades that I met during service. So true..... In fact just sit in any bar in Thailand and witness SF...Seals...Rangers...Delta...GB's... SAS ... Read More
2013 Honda Sh 150 Vietnamese Made? by bnvmri943
Good day! I m currently in the mist of looking for Honda Sh150 the imported Sh150 cost around USD30000 Its too much to pay for scooter. the same model cost USD4500 in the States. So I kept my options to the locally made. To be honest both are ...
This one : Xô Viết Nghệ Tĩnh, Phường 17, Bình Thạnh Read More
Motorbike tune up for secondhand bike by Claire_
I just bought a Yamaha Nouvo, second hand from a vietnamise man. Looks like a well looked after bike. Though it has a few minor issues and needs an all round checkup. I live in District 3, can anyone please recommend a good garage (where they speak ...
Claire, get the oil changed every 1000km and gearbox every 5000km Oil change is about 100k a bit more for gearbox. Belt should be done at 50km and normally a few bearings at the same time, costs anything from 500k - 1mill vnd depending where you ... Read More
Expats! What are your jobs? by mikeymyke
Even though my fiance and I made the choice to come to live in Canada, we also agreed to live in Vietnam should her application fail somehow. But as a foreigner who doesn't speak much Vietnamese, my job prospects seem limited to just teaching ...
SM a programmer..... :lol: I'm saying nowt..... :P Read More
Expats! What are your jobs? by mikeymyke
Even though my fiance and I made the choice to come to live in Canada, we also agreed to live in Vietnam should her application fail somehow. But as a foreigner who doesn't speak much Vietnamese, my job prospects seem limited to just teaching ...
That is why we are able to live and work here, beyond teaching English. Don't get me wrong teaching is a good career, IF you want to be a teacher, but I prefer my current chosen profession. Read More
Expats! What are your jobs? by mikeymyke
Even though my fiance and I made the choice to come to live in Canada, we also agreed to live in Vietnam should her application fail somehow. But as a foreigner who doesn't speak much Vietnamese, my job prospects seem limited to just teaching ...
What do you do in Canada? Check out the job boards here, vietnamworks etc. They've been posted plenty of times before on here. There are other jobs for expats here, but you need significant experience in your field and most are in management roles. Read More
Would YOU drink vietnamese rice liquor on bui vien if it was 5,000vnd? by Hans.b
Hi Everyone! I've been in SG for over 1 year now and am thinking about opening a small outside bar on Bui vien. Only 6-8 tables and sell vn rice liquor aka ruou de and ruou nep and froozen daiquiries and ofcourse beer. I havent noticed anyone ...
would I pay for it? no chance.... :D but on Bui Vien, you will find plenty of backpackers that no doubt will..... Read More
South Africans in Vietnam by sheralee
Hi, I'm a 48 year old South African woman who is looking at living and working in Vietnam. I am an attorney by profession, however I like the idea of teaching English and thought this might be a possibility while also giving me the opportunity to ...
Hi Sheralee, I've got several south african friends who live here and teach english, sadly none of them post on this blog. That aside they enjoy the lifestyle and work here, much the same as other teachers from elsewhere do. Is there something ... Read More
Flood Zone by tintinmiami2013
All, I keep hearing that HCMC is flooded and there is always rain everyday. Is this true? Are there any good district to live in where it does not get flooded easily? Please advise. T.T
Keep in mind that HCMC is only 4m above sea level. So the floods are worse at full moon and high tides :) Read More
French long-stay visa for Vietnamese wife by donny_68
Hi I am considering applying for a long-stay visa for my Vietnamese wife to live in France. I am from the EU. Does anyone have experience of this? I just have a few questions, which I would prefer to discuss 1-1. Many thanks!
Given that you are Scottish and wanting to take her to France I think you could struggle with this a wee bit.... I know easy for you to go there, but given the ball aches of trying to get her to the UK, I admire your ingenuity, good luck :) Read More
Any Canadians getting married in Vietnam? by mikeymyke
Ok so I have to send my documents to Embassy of Vietnam in Ottawa for translation/legalization, and they want to charge me $70 per document!! I have 10 documents to translate. That's pretty insane. How much did you guys get charged for yours? ...
Try going to the UK consulate, I had 1 form signed and stamped there, 3years ago and charged me 70GBP around $115USD. 70bucks is cheap to me :D All these consulate fees are a con... seriously far too high! Read More
Looking for spine-comfortable motorcycle - to buy.
and yet I find them uncomfortable to ride..... as SM says need to be more specific for requirements, but the best bet would be go and hire a few different models and find out which one you like, then buy that model. Read More
2013 Honda Sh 150 Vietnamese Made? by bnvmri943
Good day! I m currently in the mist of looking for Honda Sh150 the imported Sh150 cost around USD30000 Its too much to pay for scooter. the same model cost USD4500 in the States. So I kept my options to the locally made. To be honest both are ...
the Honda VN website has it listed as 79.9 mill when I questioned it, they said not including registration. They also had a list of gifts you get thrown in with each model, I go more than what was on the list ;) Read More
2013 Honda Sh 150 Vietnamese Made? by bnvmri943
Good day! I m currently in the mist of looking for Honda Sh150 the imported Sh150 cost around USD30000 Its too much to pay for scooter. the same model cost USD4500 in the States. So I kept my options to the locally made. To be honest both are ...
I paid list price, but got a few other goodies n gifts thrown in... total including registration in my name 88.8 mill Read More
2013 Honda Sh 150 Vietnamese Made? by bnvmri943
Good day! I m currently in the mist of looking for Honda Sh150 the imported Sh150 cost around USD30000 Its too much to pay for scooter. the same model cost USD4500 in the States. So I kept my options to the locally made. To be honest both are ...
FWIW I've ridden both and couldn't tell them apart. So I just bought the VN model, and when I say just.. I mean yesterday :D Should get it rgeistered tomorrow or Monday. It's black so not too heavy on the chrome either ;) Read More
WARNING- Be careful with your mobile phone by tintinmiami2013
To all expats and friends living in VN. This is the 2nd time I've heard from a friend in the last month that their mobile phone was STOLEN while walking with it in HCMC. I just want to let you guys know that you need to be extremely vigilant when ...
I walk around HCMC at night and all hours, I don't think I've ever felt fearful of my surroundings. I remember being in Perth, Australia a few years back now and felt more afraid then, than I ever have here. Sure as others have said I am aware I ... Read More
WARNING- Be careful with your mobile phone by tintinmiami2013
To all expats and friends living in VN. This is the 2nd time I've heard from a friend in the last month that their mobile phone was STOLEN while walking with it in HCMC. I just want to let you guys know that you need to be extremely vigilant when ...
Probably because you are focusing on HCMC... as you say it happens all over the world. Londoners rarely report it online, but it happens there just as much as here, report it to the police, claim it on insurance, job done. ok here's a little ... Read More
TESOL CERT by tintinmiami2013
Hi all, I just earned my TESOL degree in the U.S. Now I wanted to ask what is the next step? Can anybody guide me or give me suggestions on what school to contact? Is it acceptable to apply online? Interview online? I'm currently living in the ...
Which means no work permit or TRC, so still need to do visa renewals\runs now n then. work is available but it can depend on your qualifications.... That's my experience anyway!Agreed... at least from what I've seen. I'm not a teacher, but just ... Read More
TESOL CERT by tintinmiami2013
Hi all, I just earned my TESOL degree in the U.S. Now I wanted to ask what is the next step? Can anybody guide me or give me suggestions on what school to contact? Is it acceptable to apply online? Interview online? I'm currently living in the ...
Did the others offer your full-time hours with work permit etc. or just part-time casual hours with or without a contract? Read More
TESOL CERT by tintinmiami2013
Hi all, I just earned my TESOL degree in the U.S. Now I wanted to ask what is the next step? Can anybody guide me or give me suggestions on what school to contact? Is it acceptable to apply online? Interview online? I'm currently living in the ...
TESOL are doing degree courses now? Is the same as a PGC or something else? How long does it take to achieve 3 or 4 years? Read More
Jobs
So post an advert in the classifieds. Or look at the job boards, there are numerous threads on here that will highlight them. Google is your friend :) Word of mouth often works best, so get out and start chatting to the other expats in the area. Read More
What would be the best choice for me to buy a motorbike ? by Tof76
Hello everyone. I would like to buy a motorbike to ride mostly in HCMC. I'd like to buy a 125cc to feel easy having a passenger and a light motorbike would be a good choice. I'd like a semi-auto, but full auto wouldn't bother me. I have seen the ...
How much do you want spend? Could affect your choices. Read More
Owner Properties in Vietnam by bnvmri943
We had a discussion with one of our expat member here. I would need advice on foreigners owning properties. I was told we cant any properties? It that so? When my wife bought a piece of land in Danang. I was ask to sign a document stating that I ...
Of course all that is about change next month, when the new law states any foreigner with a visa over 3 months, can purchase property here in Vietnam. So for those expats with Vietnamese partners, it may be time to draw up a new agreement. Read More
Looking for some new places to head out by Fairdinkum16
Hey everyone, Recently moved here and just seem to keep going to the same places for dinner and out for a drink. Was wondering if anyone could pass on some info of some good places to have a drink after work, or on the weekends. Weekends usually ...
For food head to D3, for Chinese food head to D5 :) This site is a good resource for ideas : www.eatingsaigon.com Read More
Being cheated by Indian man and Vietnamese woman by visavn2013
Hey there Thanks for your guys for all the advices. Suddenly, they contacted us and give us back the money, even in very rude attitude. But finally, it came back to us now. Thanks and regards
Who claimed it was not a lot to lose? They have consulted a lawyer and he has advised them, they have no case. So what options are left? Spend a load more money in the hope that they win? I'm not sure, but I doubt many lawyers would take on such a ... Read More
Is dangerous ! by Ng0720
I was in D2 today,and I saw a thief wanted to steal a white female's bag,so I went and tell this woman to be careful,and the thief send a "greeting"to me...that is fun....
No all weapons are illegal. You could carry a tool of some sort (screwdriver etc. and I would not condone it) but you are on thin-ice if you cannot prove you need to be carrying it for a legitimate reason. eg job or in case of motorbike break down ... Read More
Being cheated by Indian man and Vietnamese woman by visavn2013
Hey there Thanks for your guys for all the advices. Suddenly, they contacted us and give us back the money, even in very rude attitude. But finally, it came back to us now. Thanks and regards
So a Lawyer is telling you, that you have no case and yet you think a bunch of expats will know better? :D Conversation by word of mouth are worthless without written back up. Your word against his, cut your losses and walk away. If you & your ... Read More
Is dangerous ! by Ng0720
I was in D2 today,and I saw a thief wanted to steal a white female's bag,so I went and tell this woman to be careful,and the thief send a "greeting"to me...that is fun....
YES, get caught with it and you are in deep trouble. Read More
Being cheated by Indian man and Vietnamese woman by visavn2013
Hey there Thanks for your guys for all the advices. Suddenly, they contacted us and give us back the money, even in very rude attitude. But finally, it came back to us now. Thanks and regards
You are Vietnamese, surely you can ask your Vietnames friends or find a lawyer to help with this? You have a contract with the man, what does it stipulate about cancellations and refunds from either party? I'm not sure too many expatriates will be ... Read More
motorbike licence by Faith188
hey, guys just arrived HCMC one week ago, does anyone know how to get a motorbike licence and where to buy a relative cheap motor? thx so much lenny
Check the dates printed on your licence, it shows the expiration dates clearly on mine. Read More
internet coffe by supernova73
is true that in Saigon there is no internet coffe? so if i cannot came with my pc i have no comunication?
Don't know about internet coffee.... but there are plenty of internet cafe's around ;) Read More
Is dangerous ! by Ng0720
I was in D2 today,and I saw a thief wanted to steal a white female's bag,so I went and tell this woman to be careful,and the thief send a "greeting"to me...that is fun....
Sadly D2 is a target for thieves, it is well populated with expats who tend to carry too much in way of valuables\cash with them. Many do not take simple precautions and leave themselves open to attack. Having said that I know the thieves target ... Read More
Aus election coverage
Try Phatty's it's an ozzie sports bar but does show some news occasionally. Read More
Champions League Football - Celtic, Barca, Milan & Ajax
Yep Boston bar is always the firm favourite. Depending on numbers the Spotted Cow will stay open for the big events, usually speak to Andy (manager) and he can give you an indication if's possible. Read More
Champions League Football - Celtic, Barca, Milan & Ajax
Coupe of Celtic fans drink in Spotted Cow in Bui Vien, to watch the games, not sure how you'll get on with the Champions leagues there, but there are other options around to watch live. Read More
Archery Club in HCMC? by bnvmri943
Good day! One thing I would like to ask..It there an Archery club in HCMC? Thank in advance!...:)
There is an archery club in HCMC, it's run indoors Diamond Plaza in D1. Small light weight bows around 18lbs or so. Read More
Working visa and working permit by aceancheta
Good Evening everyone! I would just like to know how many times can I renew my visa (my first tourist visa for 3 months will expire in october) ? Can I convert it to a working visa? Or is it okay if I stay having only a tourist visa? How long could ...
Typically you can renew your visa in country twice. Sure you can stay longer with an extension. Can you work? Legally no you can't but that doesn't stop many people from doing so. WP and Temp residence cards are\should be obtained via your place of ... Read More
Do I need to make a run for the border?
Typically you can renew your visa in country twice. It is\has been possible to extend further without leaving the country but your leaving yourself exposed to the risk of having your visa canceled and deported from the country. Visa runs to Cambodia ... Read More
Reputable computer repair shop in HCMC by saigonmonkey
I have a 2-year old Windows XP laptop with expired warranty that needs repair (problem appears to be video card). Does anyone know a trustworthy computer repair shop in HCMC? Thanks
SM, what make\model is it? Bought here in VN or outside? If the hinge is broekn, I supsect a new screen will be in order. around $90 to replace. I've had numerous laptops repaired, if you give me the details I'll get the contact details for you. Read More
Cancelled visa by thaicook
My friend recently had his B3 visa cancelled due to an admin error in Sihanoukville, Cambodia. He was told that he had to leave Vietnam for a few days and re-apply for his visa online, the visa has since been refused and there doesn't seem to be any ...
B3 visa is a business visa, allows you to come and conduct business within Vietnam. This is not to be confused with a work permit, it is not an entitlement to work here. Read More
Cancelled visa by thaicook
My friend recently had his B3 visa cancelled due to an admin error in Sihanoukville, Cambodia. He was told that he had to leave Vietnam for a few days and re-apply for his visa online, the visa has since been refused and there doesn't seem to be any ...
Where is your friend now? Where did they cancel his visa? While he was in Vietnam? Unusual they normally don't bother once you're in country, it's usually cancelled at the border. Hes trying to apply online? For a visa on arrival? Tell him to go to ... Read More
How do you get those little flaggies to show up?
Go Edit your profile ..... it's set in there. Read More
casual football by iamchris
Hi I have just arrived in HCMC and am staying for a few months. At the moment I'm in a hostel just off bui vien in district 1. What I really want to do is find somewhere where people play football regularly, maybe a local park that will have games ...
Also if anyone could direct me to a good place to watch football on TV the would be great.There are at least 2 bars on the street your staying that show football regularly and another 3 within 20 yards of the area depending on the time of day the ... Read More
What are your thoughts on purchasing second hand motorbike? by Roe_Amerasian
Hi guys, I will be looking for a second hand motorbike to buy in a few weeks, when I am in HCMC. Many people told me not to trust the many used motorbike being sold online, at dealership, or on papers because their parts have been changed and so ...
Get in touch with Hein bikes in D1, they will come and collect it. The guy speaks English and he looks after a lot of expats here, he deals with bigger bikes as well. As SaigonMonkey said the locks are worthless and a pain for those that have to ... Read More
Mail Forwarding Services. by bta87
Can anyone recommend a good mail forwarding service from the USA to VN?
Email or snail mail ? heck do people still send mail via postal services? Read More
flight/tickets by bluecheer
Can anybody give some information please,I am coming to Viet Nam in december this year and I can know buy a cheap oneway for $229,what I need to know is:- 1. do I need to have a return ticket ? 2. will the Vietnamese Embassy give me a 3 month ...
All depend where you are flying from, example being Asian countries get scruitinsed more as above. However I and many other flew in on one way tickets, if asked about leaving, just saying tour bus to Cambodia, then up to Thailand etc. Never known ... Read More
Chilli Salted Cashew Nuts in HCMC?
every district has it's own market, chances are they will have them in your local one and better priced. Read More
If you move out of an apartment early...
Pretty much as above, as long as all bills are paid up no issues other than losing your deposit. You can get round that if you find someone willing to take over your lease.... Read More
Football Team by Hisdudeness
Looking to join a football team in Saigon. Not looking for anything too competitive, just something for fun. Basically a load of fat blokes running around would suit! Any info appreciated!
You play near my place, I can watch you from my apartment... that's enough excersise for me :D Read More
Hostel/ New Arrival Stay (HCMC)
Get yourself a deal on a hotel\room for a month or so while you find your feet. You can do a deal with a place in D1 for anything between $200-$400 per month depending on size and how long you wan to stay there. Once you find work, you can look more ... Read More