Ralph Schwer
@ralphnhatrang
Australian citizen
Forum posts
599
Contacts
13
About me
Australian
Lives in Adelaide, South Australia
Speaks English, Vietnamese, Indonesian
Registration: 20 January 2015
Child naming process and dual citizenship? by TigerPlease
I'm Australian, my Viet partner and I are expecting our first born in October. No, we are not married. What are our options for naming the child? Do we have to go with a Vietnamese name or can go with English name. ( I seen in here some people ...
Sorry, I can't help you, I have the same problem. :( Read More
getting married in vietnam by anavrin1004
hello, can my girlfriend and I get married in vietnam without any hustle? like here in the philippines, if u wnt to get married quickly and hustle-free, you can go to manila city hall and everything will be process within the day. Is there ...
Sometimes it really does help to know someone ! Good news ! Congratulations to you both! Read More
Child naming process and dual citizenship? by TigerPlease
I'm Australian, my Viet partner and I are expecting our first born in October. No, we are not married. What are our options for naming the child? Do we have to go with a Vietnamese name or can go with English name. ( I seen in here some people ...
You misread my post, sorry it was badly written. Having completed the entire process to reclaim her VN citizenship, when my wife went to the Immigration Police office to sign for her VN citizenship and passport, she was told that she would have to ... Read More
Child naming process and dual citizenship? by TigerPlease
I'm Australian, my Viet partner and I are expecting our first born in October. No, we are not married. What are our options for naming the child? Do we have to go with a Vietnamese name or can go with English name. ( I seen in here some people ...
#12 - "Anh is of course the masculine identifier name in Vietnam ..." If only it were so simple. 'Anh' changes its meaning when used in a compound word. Such as, 'anh đào - cherry' and 'anh thư - ... Read More
Child naming process and dual citizenship? by TigerPlease
I'm Australian, my Viet partner and I are expecting our first born in October. No, we are not married. What are our options for naming the child? Do we have to go with a Vietnamese name or can go with English name. ( I seen in here some people ...
Also avoid 'Dung'. 'Kim', meaning 'gold', works in both Vietnamese and English. My daughter's name is An, meaning 'peace', chosen for the same reason, and is similarly easy to read and pronounce in English. Read More
getting married in vietnam by anavrin1004
hello, can my girlfriend and I get married in vietnam without any hustle? like here in the philippines, if u wnt to get married quickly and hustle-free, you can go to manila city hall and everything will be process within the day. Is there ...
VN civil servants create 'problems' such as this to enable them to ask you for 'tea money' so they can 'help' you overcome the problems they have created. Read More
New members of the Vietnam forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Vietnam forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
And remember that you will be in VN during the northern hemisphere winter, when it does get cold on northern VN. Read More
Child naming process and dual citizenship? by TigerPlease
I'm Australian, my Viet partner and I are expecting our first born in October. No, we are not married. What are our options for naming the child? Do we have to go with a Vietnamese name or can go with English name. ( I seen in here some people ...
The problem with dual citizenship is that the dual citizen must leave and re-enter VN using their VN passport only, using their foreign passport is not allowed, so giving VN immigration the chance to screw them around at the airport. Read More
Optical in Saigon by michaellieptourists
Hi Guys, Have you any experience with opticians in Saigon, I have a prescription for the glasses needed. I need distance/reading glasses, transition lens, non reflective. Would like to know firstly, how long to get them made and ball park cost. ...
My last pair of continuous focus, photochromatic lenses cost 4 million dong in Nha Trang four years ago. It took an hour or two for them to be made. Read More
Translation by Adrian Chow
Need help in translating these sentences from Vietnamese to English.... many thanks Tôi đã hiểu bạn ! Bạn đã nói dối với tôi rất nhiều rồi đó ...
Bazza No need to feel envious for not being so 'handsome', as Google completely mistranslated the sentence and the word 'handsome' is not in the original text. The woman is having a whinge about her own situation, nor commenting on ... Read More
Translation by Adrian Chow
Need help in translating these sentences from Vietnamese to English.... many thanks Tôi đã hiểu bạn ! Bạn đã nói dối với tôi rất nhiều rồi đó ...
Do not trust Google Translate. This is a job for Ciambella, if she is not busy. Read More
New members of the Vietnam forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Vietnam forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
There are three golf courses in the Nha Trang area. Around of golf will cost you $70USD, according to their websites. Note: it is illegal to advertise prices in USD. 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 ...
I lived in VN for 13 years and plan to spend six months a year there in the future. Winters in South Australia are too cold, wet and miserable. I'll go for the Endless Summer option. 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 ...
Nun, just write "Import/Export" in the Reason for Visa section. You get much better value for buck in VN. Avoid expensive, polluted Saigon, and relax and enjoy life. Read More
Moving to Viet Nam
Unfortunately, probably due to global warming, many coastal cities, including Phan Thiet, Nha Trangv Danang and Hue, and even Hanoi can now get to 38C or even over 40C in summer, with 85% or more humidity. It's like breathing under water. Read More
Nha Trang information...
You could try Maximart down near the railway station. Read More
English/French speakers With High School daughter?
As far as I know foreign children may not attend government schools in Vietnam. The school fees for international schools are horrendous. You should check the fees first, then check the quality of education at each school. Read More
Relocation to HCMC by tgmsgn
INFO ABOUT ME: I've lived in Honolulu since 1969, but want to relocate to HCMC. I've visited 4x since last September, and will be back soon to rent for 1 or 2 years to see if I want to buy something. I'm 75, divorced, a semi-retired ...
Wow, congratulations on your karate and aikido achievements. Should you get up to Nha Trang, the aikido club there will make you most welcome. Read More
Best area for a 3 month relocation? by Ravenus
Hello We are looking to relocate from Melbourne for 3 x 3month stints next year (3 different countries, 3 months in each) One of the places we are considering is Vietnam but we've never been before. Just wanted to see if anyone can advise ...
Tru for a servicrd apartment rather than a hotel. If ypu choose Danang, I suggrst you also visit Hue 3 hours away for two or three days to so tours to the royal tombs ( two of which were palaces), the Imperial Palace and the Vinh Moc tunnels. There ... Read More
New members of the Vietnam forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Vietnam forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Ruthon, so you don't believe in eating meat, nor sending your daughter to school, nor protecting her health with vaccinations. Be careful, don't levitate too high. Read More
Planning to move to Vietnam very soon by King_of_the_Ring
Hi All, I'm new here and I have some general questions as I'm planning to move to Vietnam at the end of this year. I'm Italian and I live in Thailand at the moment. Last january I went on holiday to Vietnam and I've dated a ...
King, If you search on bing.com for "muay thai vietnam" you will get info for muay Thai and MMA in Saigon and Hanoi. Read More
Planning to move to Vietnam very soon by King_of_the_Ring
Hi All, I'm new here and I have some general questions as I'm planning to move to Vietnam at the end of this year. I'm Italian and I live in Thailand at the moment. Last january I went on holiday to Vietnam and I've dated a ...
I haven't come across them on VN either. Perhaps an expat or two in Dalat does them. Good luck. Read More
Planning to move to Vietnam very soon by King_of_the_Ring
Hi All, I'm new here and I have some general questions as I'm planning to move to Vietnam at the end of this year. I'm Italian and I live in Thailand at the moment. Last january I went on holiday to Vietnam and I've dated a ...
King, you mention that you so martial arts, which are very popular on VN. VN has them all: aikido, judo, karate, taekwondo, kungfu, wushu, vo co truyen (traditional VN martial art) vovinam (modern VN martial art). I haven't come across hapkido ... Read More
Planning to move to Vietnam very soon by King_of_the_Ring
Hi All, I'm new here and I have some general questions as I'm planning to move to Vietnam at the end of this year. I'm Italian and I live in Thailand at the moment. Last january I went on holiday to Vietnam and I've dated a ...
Dalat is famous for honey mooning and growing cool climatr vegetables for all of southern Vietnam, including Saigon. Hanoi is famous for its history and culture. I suggest you visit both cities and decide which you prefer. I also suggest you visit ... Read More
New members of the Vietnam forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Vietnam forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Perhaps a member of the forum can advise you on dentists in Danang, a cheap, 30km city bus ride from Hoi An. Summer in Oz is wintet in Central VN, with frequent storms and rough seas. It is not generally good beach weather. Best choose accommodation ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
I have been in the country for several years and speak some Vietnamese. I have been working on my pronunciation for some time. Why do some people understand everything I say and others nothing. I have been on this forum before and have not received ...
Posters above make some interesting points: “We all lose hearing with age” - True. I mostly now cannot hear the letter 's', no matter if it is at the front or back of a word. After about 45 years of age, if we have not ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
I have been in the country for several years and speak some Vietnamese. I have been working on my pronunciation for some time. Why do some people understand everything I say and others nothing. I have been on this forum before and have not received ...
"Perhaps sometime ... I will understand all." No, unfortunately, that is never going to happen. It is better to aim for an achievable target. Such as learning a few new words each day while reading Tuoi Tre or Thanh Nien newspapers, or ... Read More
how to live in vietnam without a retirement visa????
Several single Australian friends have lived in Nha Trang for over ten years on business visas. They keep out of trouble and do visa runs to Cambodia or elsewhere, including Singapore. Read More
New members of the Vietnam forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Vietnam forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Vinh Hoa is a new, triangular shaped residential area on the coast 8km north of Nha Trang. It's quiet, but an easy ride into to town by bicycle, bus or motorbike. You can find it on Google Earth. Then switch to Google Maps to locate Kiwi Bar, ... Read More
Foreigners living in Vietnam, who are they and how are they doing? by GuestPoster348
This is from my 4 years personal experiences of meeting, socializing, working and being friends with foreigners in Vietnam. In this post, I mostly indicate foreigners who are working and living rather than tourists. This may be applicable for expats ...
Khuyen, Yes, it was early April 2015. I checked my diary. Best wishes from Nga and me. Ralph Read More
Employment for a Writer in Vietnam? by TheThoreauLife
Dear Friends, I am relatively new to expat.com, so before my question I will introduce myself. I am an American who grew up as a military brat overseas (Italy, Spain) and lived previously as an expat in Kathmandu Nepal for eight months. I attend ...
I once saw the English language Vietnam News advertising for native Wngliah speakers, so I guess you xould contact rhem and other English language news publishers. Read More
Spiders by Missjodi
Am moving to DaNang Dec or Jan. Doing my research,getting prepared and such. I'd like a real answer on what to expect regarding the spider thing vietnam. Not much of a backpacker will do most of my living in western style apts in the larger ...
Komodo dragons are nasty beasts. They don't actually kill their prey themselves, they just bite their prey and the deadly bacteria in the dragon's saliva kills the prey for them. Slowly, painfully. Dear me, is that the way you wish to die? ... Read More
Spiders by Missjodi
Am moving to DaNang Dec or Jan. Doing my research,getting prepared and such. I'd like a real answer on what to expect regarding the spider thing vietnam. Not much of a backpacker will do most of my living in western style apts in the larger ...
My wife's attitude to spiders was "Kill, kill! Now!" When finally a huntsman spider did arrive in our house, I had to carefully explain that it was a GOOD spider, did not spin webs, was harmless, and ate mosquitoes and flies. Even ... Read More
expat hang out bars/cafes in Nha Trang by johnandlyn
Hi ,we are arriving in Nha Trang from Dalat tomorrow are there any Aussie sports bar with football games or the like in Nha Trang or any bars/cafes where Aussies hang out any Irish bars or general expat hang outs we are staying down the beach ...
There is an Irish bar on the southern end of Nguyen Thien Thuat Street, not for south of Biet Thu Street. Some other bars are farther south on Nguyen Thien Thuat. You can usually find an expat or two around 11a.m and 5p.m. at the Quan Nhau, 69 Bac ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
I have been in the country for several years and speak some Vietnamese. I have been working on my pronunciation for some time. Why do some people understand everything I say and others nothing. I have been on this forum before and have not received ...
It could be any of several reasons: your foreign accent; incorrect pronunciation of VN sounds and tones; using English stress patterns which so not exist in Vietnamese. Then again, many Vietnamese are not expecting you to speak Vietnamese, so they ... Read More
Allow me to introduce myself :) by KiWill
Hello all, I'm Kiwi Will (KiWill!). I'm from NZ and my name's Will. I have been in Saigon just under 2 weeks now. I am here on the English teaching band wagon :) I hope to be here long term, a couple years at least. This is my 3rd ...
re: post #10 Tunnelrat, If you do not approve of Vietnamese learning British, Australian, or New Zealand accents, which particular accent would you prefer they learn? Perhaps US mid-west, Boston, Texas, Californian, North Carolina, Tennessee, New ... Read More
New members of the Vietnam forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Vietnam forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Fake drugs are a huge problem in the VN pharmaceutical industry. Vietnamese language print media and online news are full of fake drug reports. It's very sad really, as it has undermined trust for all pharmaceutical products produced in VN. Read More
Agent For Difficult Visa Case by GuestPoster229
Hello fellow expats, I was hoping you guys can help me out: I have a 30-day tourist visa and want to get a longer visa. So far, I've contacted 5 different agents and all of them told me that it's NOT possible for an IRANIAN passport holder ...
Vietnam does not trust nationals from Muslim countries. Some years ago VN banned entry for all of them, even nationals from Indonesia and Malaysia (countries which are in ASEAN with VN), plus Muslims from non-Muslim countries. For example, a ... Read More
Agent For Difficult Visa Case by GuestPoster229
Hello fellow expats, I was hoping you guys can help me out: I have a 30-day tourist visa and want to get a longer visa. So far, I've contacted 5 different agents and all of them told me that it's NOT possible for an IRANIAN passport holder ...
I suggest you apply for Oz citizenship. Read More
Agent For Difficult Visa Case by GuestPoster229
Hello fellow expats, I was hoping you guys can help me out: I have a 30-day tourist visa and want to get a longer visa. So far, I've contacted 5 different agents and all of them told me that it's NOT possible for an IRANIAN passport holder ...
You may find that if you come on a one month tourist visa, you can get ONE more one month visa without leaving the country. You will have to check, because the visa rules change almost by the day and also depends on which office and which staff you ... Read More
Agent For Difficult Visa Case by GuestPoster229
Hello fellow expats, I was hoping you guys can help me out: I have a 30-day tourist visa and want to get a longer visa. So far, I've contacted 5 different agents and all of them told me that it's NOT possible for an IRANIAN passport holder ...
$610 is way too much. Perhaps another member on this forum can give you a realistic price Read More
Agent For Difficult Visa Case by GuestPoster229
Hello fellow expats, I was hoping you guys can help me out: I have a 30-day tourist visa and want to get a longer visa. So far, I've contacted 5 different agents and all of them told me that it's NOT possible for an IRANIAN passport holder ...
Apply for a one year business visa. In the "Reason for visa", write "Import/export". Attaching a police clearance certificate may help. Good luck. Read More
New members of the Vietnam forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Vietnam forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Perhaps you could enquire about distance education from WA. Read More
Anyone has experience marriage in VN Saigon? by vgran
I'm going to marriage in VN. Is there anyone has info how to marriage process start? Where I can get the medical health certificate? And where is the governement office where could register our marriage?
Alexander, " to reply to someone directly." Click on the subscriber's name, then when his/her page opens click on "send a message". Read More
Anyone has experience marriage in VN Saigon? by vgran
I'm going to marriage in VN. Is there anyone has info how to marriage process start? Where I can get the medical health certificate? And where is the governement office where could register our marriage?
Vietnamese is one of the harder languages to learn, if you are a native English speaker. Apart from tones, there are umpteen pronouns to learn to use correctly (this took me decades); although normal sentence word order is subject, verb, predicate, ... 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 ...
Gentlemen, fear not! Rowen Atkinson is here to help you, "How to date", in several parts. [Dear Thought Police, there is nothing pornographic on ... Read More
New members of the Vietnam forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Vietnam forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
It gets cold in the mountains in winter and it sometimes snows in Sapa. Even as far south as Nha Trang I wear warm clothes of an evening in winter. Summer is very hot and humid Read More
Intercultural relationships in Australia by Priscilla
Hello, We invite you to share some fun anecdotes and information regarding intercultural marriages and relationships in Australia. This will provide some insight to current and future expats regarding relationship norms in mixed relationships and ...
Australia has a successful, multicultural society, as demonstrated by the following statistics. QUOTE The 2016 Census shows that … nearly half (49 per cent) of Australians had either been born overseas (first generation Australian) or one or ... Read More
Old men with young Vietnamese wives/girlfriends by pathixon48
How is it working out?
Cp713a, As I wrote in my post, my family and I are living back in Australia now, so sorry, I can't accept your invitation to badminton. Enjoy Nha Trang. Read More
Translation Office
you could also contact An Huynh for a quote. He is a self employed translator/interpreter in Australia with nationally recognised NAATI professional qualifications. I will PM you his email address. Read More
Translation Office
The city or district Public Notary Office (Phòng Công Chứng) can do the translations into English for you at cheap rates. 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]
In VN many people have to pay a bribe to get a job, whether working for a private or for the government. It depends on how corrupt the bosses are. Some school principals also demand a bribe before they allow a pupil or student into their school. Read More
Indian Moving to (Ho Chi Minh) Vietnam
Many VN Buddhists eat a vegetarian diet (ăn chay) on at least two days a month. There are some Buddhist vegetarian restaurants (quán ăn chay) in larger towns and cities in VN, but I have found most of them sell terrible food. Eating ... Read More
New members of the Vietnam forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Vietnam forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Mrj2018, There are many women who would be willing to accept your job. The easiest way is simply to ask your neighbours if they know anyone suitable. Read More
Best way / safe way from Nha Trang airport to our hotel by rololo88
Hello everyone, We'll travel from Hong Kong to Nha Trang next month and i would like to know the best way / cheap way to go to our hotel (Amiana Resort and Villas) from Nha Trang Airport. Thank you all for your help.
If there are two or more passengers, it will be cheaper by taxi. Read More
From png is it posible to migrate to australia? by Grethel Rubio
Hello any one can give me advise I was hired in png is it a good stepping stone to migrate in australia after a year since png is near in australia?someone who can give me advise for the process?
I totally agree with Xtang. Read More
Best way / safe way from Nha Trang airport to our hotel by rololo88
Hello everyone, We'll travel from Hong Kong to Nha Trang next month and i would like to know the best way / cheap way to go to our hotel (Amiana Resort and Villas) from Nha Trang Airport. Thank you all for your help.
Taxi is the easiest way to go. Amiana Resort is 10km or more north of Nha Trang, while the airport is 30km south. The taxi will cost around 600,000 dong. Definitely do not pay 700,000 dong. You may be able to be able to negotiate a fare lower than ... Read More
tailor
If you get no replies, ask your your clothing material shop, hotel staff, or neighbours. Read More
I just want to know what vietnamese people think. by bawindayak
First time when I come to vietnam, I think they is nice and friendly when I walk alone. but for some month I living here. I just learn about vietnamese. just one think, I don't understand about vietnamese people attitude. I think they very nasty ...
It is not only strangers qho make snide comments. When my wife and I met twenty years ago, one of her aunts chided her for "taking up with a Western backpacker [Tay ba lo]". She considered me most undesirable, which bothers me not a bit, ... Read More
New members of the Vietnam forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Vietnam forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
In Nha Trang there are indoor, under-utilised community basket ball courts both in town and in nearby suburbs. Nha Trang University is another possible option, as they already host martial arts clubs. The city judo club operates from cramped rooms ... Read More
What is fascinating about Phu Quoc Island? by lupacexi
This time I want to travel with my family in Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam. Let me ask what is fascinating about Phu Quoc Island? I want to give my children the most interesting and impressive when coming to Vietnam.
Friends showed me photos of a very pretty stream the swam in on Phu Quoc. You will have to ask details from your hotel staff. Read More
member in the expat dalat
Your friend is the best one to answer that question. In the past it was up to the local police to decide on this question, but that may have changed, given the large number of expats now living in Vietnam. Read More
Information: Visa to Australia for a group of Vietnamese students
Rikka,' I have sent you a PM. Ralph Read More
Child Care Courses in Adelaide
Check the Technical and Further Education (TAFE) website. It is confusing because there is nothing listed as "Childcare". It is easier if you chose a TAFE college near you and check to see what courses they offer. check ... Read More
Having a baby in Vietnam by TigerPlease
My Vietnamese girlfriend and I look like we will be having a baby in 8 months. From someone who knows nothing what to expect.. I want to know EVERYTHING from those who have experienced this themselves. Fire away. Thanks
Many VN also think rhwy should aimilarly fatten their babies, too, which is also unhealthy. Re: birth certificate for your baby The hospital will give you a Record of Birth saying that X gave birth to a male/female child at Y hospital on Z date. You ... Read More
Marriage in VN. Single certificate wrong nationality. by dumpest
My brother is vietnamese but finnish citizen. He has now traveled to vn for marriage with his (local)girlfriend. Today he chat me to show me that his single certificate(and translated) is wrong filled. His nationality is marked vietnam. He is ...
I advise your brother to have the document re-issued or retranslated, because the local authorities will use ANY excuse to say, "There is a problem", and delay the paperwork. Read More
Having a baby in Vietnam by TigerPlease
My Vietnamese girlfriend and I look like we will be having a baby in 8 months. From someone who knows nothing what to expect.. I want to know EVERYTHING from those who have experienced this themselves. Fire away. Thanks
In reply to Andy (sorry to be off post) It seems the all VN wives want to fatten their husbands t9o prove that they look after their husbands 'properly'. After my weight had increased by 10%, I informed my wife that from now on I would not ... Read More
Having a baby in Vietnam by TigerPlease
My Vietnamese girlfriend and I look like we will be having a baby in 8 months. From someone who knows nothing what to expect.. I want to know EVERYTHING from those who have experienced this themselves. Fire away. Thanks
Find the best possible specialists you canm This is easier if you are in Saigon. AIf you live in the sticks, consider relocating for the birth. My daughter was born on Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa Ptovince. After giving birth, traditional rules are totally ... Read More
I just want to know what vietnamese people think. by bawindayak
First time when I come to vietnam, I think they is nice and friendly when I walk alone. but for some month I living here. I just learn about vietnamese. just one think, I don't understand about vietnamese people attitude. I think they very nasty ...
Yes, my wife is the eldest daughter in her family. Her mother is the eldest of her sisters, but her husband is deceased. The second eldest aunt (di) is widowed and living in France. The uncle who told me that he is the most important male is the ... Read More
Preparing for the possible event of death while in Vietnam? by mojoyote
I would welcome any information or being pointed to a good source information about this. I am thinking of cashing in my life insurance policy as a sort of 'safety net' for myself. I have no dependents at the moment, and I am 53 years old. I ...
#3 has it right. Get on with enjoying life. Read More
I just want to know what vietnamese people think. by bawindayak
First time when I come to vietnam, I think they is nice and friendly when I walk alone. but for some month I living here. I just learn about vietnamese. just one think, I don't understand about vietnamese people attitude. I think they very nasty ...
"In family relationships rank trumps age every time". An interesting point. By normal rules my nephews would call me "Dượng", but I am informed that I am "the second most important male in the family" (a ... Read More
I just want to know what vietnamese people think. by bawindayak
First time when I come to vietnam, I think they is nice and friendly when I walk alone. but for some month I living here. I just learn about vietnamese. just one think, I don't understand about vietnamese people attitude. I think they very nasty ...
Before beginning an interview, two teenage girls once took several minutes in front of me to discussing whether they should address me as 'chú' or 'bác'. They finally decided on 'chú' and the interview ... Read More
Buy walking/hiking gear Hcmc by Gareth Uk
Any suggestions where I can buy the above including shoes/boots,wet weather gear in Hcmc?
Quan Gio, Luu van Lang Street, which is on the east side of Central Market (Cho Ben Thanh) for gortex jackets and liners. I paid 800,000dong three years ago. They are cheaper in Hanoi. Read More
I just want to know what vietnamese people think. by bawindayak
First time when I come to vietnam, I think they is nice and friendly when I walk alone. but for some month I living here. I just learn about vietnamese. just one think, I don't understand about vietnamese people attitude. I think they very nasty ...
Badwindayak, I suggest you wear an item of Dayak clothing. It may not atop peoplw from staring, but it will let them know you are not Kinh (Vietnamese). Read More
Looking for School for my 7 Years old daughter in CBD Adelaide
There are other schools inthe CBD. Check under Department of Education in the phone book. Read More
New members of the Vietnam forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Vietnam forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
I'm afraid you will have to wait and see. Read More
New members of the Vietnam forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Vietnam forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
It is also quite likelr that you will be asked for 'coffee money' to help the problem go away. Read More
New members of the Vietnam forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Vietnam forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Customs used to hold ALL CDs and DVDs for inspection, for which a fee was payable but they no longer do this. Perhaps your books will be inspected. Read More
Tourist visa - exit
Leave from any designated border ot airport, but don't overstay your visa. Easy peasy. Read More
Moving To Vietnam In 2018 by onceuponastage
Hello, I'm a disabled USAF vet and will be moving with my wife to (hopefully) Vung Tau later this year. I was actually born in Saigon and left when I was 4 yrs. old. I'm working on completing my BA and will be enrolling in either a CELTA ...
Americans of any ethnicity are welcome in VN, with enough green bucks, of course. My daughter is VN-Australian, as are the children of many friends, and they have NO problems on VN. You have no need to worry at all, just come and enjoy yourself Read More
I just want to know what vietnamese people think. by bawindayak
First time when I come to vietnam, I think they is nice and friendly when I walk alone. but for some month I living here. I just learn about vietnamese. just one think, I don't understand about vietnamese people attitude. I think they very nasty ...
Collwing - Yes, that's the standard list of questions. They often skip, "Are you married?" and go directly to "How many children do you have?" And at my age, "How many grandchildren do yoy have?" Read More
I just want to know what vietnamese people think. by bawindayak
First time when I come to vietnam, I think they is nice and friendly when I walk alone. but for some month I living here. I just learn about vietnamese. just one think, I don't understand about vietnamese people attitude. I think they very nasty ...
I have no problem telling anyone my age but I won't tell them my income, which is often the next question. My standard reply is "Enough to live on."1 Read More
Moving To Vietnam In 2018 by onceuponastage
Hello, I'm a disabled USAF vet and will be moving with my wife to (hopefully) Vung Tau later this year. I was actually born in Saigon and left when I was 4 yrs. old. I'm working on completing my BA and will be enrolling in either a CELTA ...
If your disability requires you to use a wheelchair, VN is not the place for you. NO consideration is given to wheelchair access to footpaths, houses, hotels, restaurants, supermarkets bused, trains, or to any where else. Read More
Preparing for the possible event of death while in Vietnam? by mojoyote
I would welcome any information or being pointed to a good source information about this. I am thinking of cashing in my life insurance policy as a sort of 'safety net' for myself. I have no dependents at the moment, and I am 53 years old. I ...
You do not write where you come from, so it is not possible to give anything like accurate information on costs. I can only let you know that over twenty years ago it cost a workmate $AUD16,000 to have her son's body returned from China to ... Read More
Does anyone else have complications during the visa check in VN? by Vette Moto
By complications, I mean standing there having the officer either ask many questions and/or have periods of long silence (4-7 minutes) where the officer sits and looks around while holding my passport/visa. Getting through customs is quite similar ...
It's certain to be a hoot and a best seller. Get ready to retire. Read More
Oil painting supplies in Da Nang
I suggest you look for a shop front studio in Danang or Hoi An and ask the artists. Failing that, try buying online. Read More
Transfering funds to buy property
Would a signed fax do? That's what my Australian bank accepts. Read More
Moving to Bien Hoa by kiersmcg
Hey Expats! I just started working with ILA and I'll be moving to Bien Hoa next weekend, (Feb 9). I'm heading there this Saturday (Feb 3) to checkout the school and some apartments. Does anyone have any housing suggestions or is anyone in ...
Welcome to the forum and best wishes for an enjoyable and fulfilling teaching experience on Vietnam. There are other English teachers who you can call upon on this forum. Read More
New members of the Vietnam forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Vietnam forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Ciambella, Thanks for that, I've never seen a Baptist church so named in VN, only Protestant churches with no further information. The Baptist Church is part of the Protestant movement which broke away fro the Catholic Church during the ... Read More
Marrage by Raymond perri
I wonder why no posts ever mention Poor foreigner marrying rich Viet woman????
Edomatt- I was offered $10,000 more than 15 years ago. I declined. Price is now $30,000. An old friend of mine in Oz married an 'economic migrant' who had been sponsored by a Viet kieu and is still happily married after 30 years. Read More
New members of the Vietnam forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Vietnam forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
In reply to Dreamer100: Vietnam has only the Roman Catholic church (doa cong giao) and the Protestant church (doa tin lanh). Take your pick. Read More
Does anyone else have complications during the visa check in VN? by Vette Moto
By complications, I mean standing there having the officer either ask many questions and/or have periods of long silence (4-7 minutes) where the officer sits and looks around while holding my passport/visa. Getting through customs is quite similar ...
Yes, VKs are a targwt. A VK relative now visiting VN, when going through Immigration, was straight out asked, "Don't you have any tea money for me? " He didn't. No problem. Read More
The Postal Service in VN by maximus0760
I think that people here do not get much mail through the post. I have lived with my mother in law for one month and I have never seen a postman. I am waiting for some important correspondence from my bank in Europe. How probable is it that it ...
Did you get the money back? Did uncle charge her? Fat chance! Read More
The Postal Service in VN by maximus0760
I think that people here do not get much mail through the post. I have lived with my mother in law for one month and I have never seen a postman. I am waiting for some important correspondence from my bank in Europe. How probable is it that it ...
When my wife's dear grandmother died, a large number of people came to pay their respects. One showed her respects by stealing three sets of women's clothing off the clothes line. Read More
First Time Visit to Saigon Feb 2018
As a start, go to the Bui Vien - Pham Ngu Lao - Do Quang Dau Streets area in District 1. It's full of hotels, bars and restaurants and thousands of Westerners. Read More
Interesting and cute words but comments use. by Contem talk
Dear Folk I have found some interesting and few comments words for some languages which people always use the end of their sentence. Vietnamese = nha- ma. Japanese = Ne- Thai Na- Chinese = Ma- Those countries people often use this ...
Ha ha ha! My wife further informs me that "lượng" is not even used in Nha Trang, 9kms down the road. So not only do I have to learn Vietnamese, I have to learn Nha Trang words, and also Thành words from where we live. ... Read More
Interesting and cute words but comments use. by Contem talk
Dear Folk I have found some interesting and few comments words for some languages which people always use the end of their sentence. Vietnamese = nha- ma. Japanese = Ne- Thai Na- Chinese = Ma- Those countries people often use this ...
re #10 - Yes, from Malaysian (Bahasa Malayu). Read More
Interesting and cute words but comments use. by Contem talk
Dear Folk I have found some interesting and few comments words for some languages which people always use the end of their sentence. Vietnamese = nha- ma. Japanese = Ne- Thai Na- Chinese = Ma- Those countries people often use this ...
re #9 - "lượng" is what my wife uses all the time. It's a local word from our area and not standard Vietnamese. Read More