drutter
American expat in Vietnam
Forum posts
332
Contacts
37
About me
American
Lives in Ho Chi Mihn City
Registration: 13 October 2015
Verifying Identity in Vietnam for Banks, Government Portals? by mtgmike
I'm a U.S. Citizen. for more than a decade I've had no trouble verifying my ID and getting into my accounts and portals for government things like the IRS or my bank. Now with AI, I don't know how to do it anymore.I tried using ID Me today to get ...
@mtgmike Hello Mike. Yup I’ve been here 10 years and never had a problem. Now all the sudden I haven’t been able to get into mysocialsecurity for the last two months. I can’t even manage to confirm who I am with idme. If you figure ... Read More
Raising kids the local way in Vietnam by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Raising children as an expat in Vietnam means discovering new parenting habits. School routines, discipline, food habits, independence, social life… many things may work differently in Vietnam compared to your home ...
@Cheryl One thing that really surprised me is how hard the parents drive their children here. Starting in grammar school most children classes start at 7am and go to around 4 or 5 pm. After school many children will have extra classes at language ... Read More
How's The Weather Where You Are? by Aidan in HCMC
Got a notice of "Severe Weather Alert" for the next 5 or 6 days.
Hot sunny days are one of the reasons I’m here too. I’ve been here for 10 years and have no plans to return to Michigan. -26 is just not my thing.That being said 35 is unusually hot even here in the tropics Read More
How's The Weather Where You Are? by Aidan in HCMC
Got a notice of "Severe Weather Alert" for the next 5 or 6 days.
@Aidan in HCMC Very hot over here in HCMC too (35). If I were made of wax I wouldn’t stand a chance. Read More
Best dating website in vietnam[B]scam? by GuestPoster1052
HiLooking for a real dating website in vietnamThanks for your help
I met my wife of 10 years on Vietnam Cupid but, as with all dating websites, you should approach with caution and wisdom. There are scammers on all of them. Read More
Off Topic Posts - Whats on your mind? by SimCityAT
This thread is for everything Off-topic..........[img align=C]https://www.askideas.com/media/13/Burning-Whats-Up-Gif-Picture.gif[/img]
Here in GoVap (hcmc) they can be found in a dozen carton if you look around but the average is still 10 eggs to a carton. And, although I’ve never bothered to, I suspect if you broke it down the price per egg is higher for the cartons with a ... Read More
Little Visa confusion, how does this work? by Dannyroc3
As I get near the end of my last visa, I thought it wouldn’t be too much more money , and it might be interesting to do a trip to Bangkok and basically do a group tour, which was originally priced it around 6 million. (X two.)The last time I ...
@Dannyroc3"the price just seems too low? 6 million for airfare, 5 star hotel with food. Touring the usual cities and sights."When it sounds to good to be true...it usually is. At least that's my experience. If you proceed. proceed with caution. Read More
Little Visa confusion, how does this work? by Dannyroc3
As I get near the end of my last visa, I thought it wouldn’t be too much more money , and it might be interesting to do a trip to Bangkok and basically do a group tour, which was originally priced it around 6 million. (X two.)The last time I ...
My wife and I were invited to join a tour of Thailand with her daughters school about 5 years ago. It was free for us so, of course, we went.Personally, like you, I don’t like being tied to someone else’s schedule. I think I would have ... Read More
Am I really a bad teacher? Or is something up? by Noelwastaken
Hi everyone, I'm back with more questions about living and working here as an expat.I just got a message from my new boss, telling me I have to observe one of my coworker's classes tonight after I'm done teaching, because one of the schools were not ...
@Aidan in HCMCWhile it is technically true that an ESL is not required, it is very highly recommend. I would dare say the reputable English centers and schools will not consider hiring you without an ESL, or equivalent certification.The message ... Read More
Which areas/neighborhoods are pleasant to live in ? by SeanNew
Hi all brothers and sisters:I am a college professor in the USA. Recently married a Vietnamese girl. We plan on settling in VN. Looking to find areas where weather is not too hot, not too cold. Currently, looking into Bao Loc area. Which ...
DaLot is often refered to as "the land of eternal spring." there is a large expat community and if you stat near the city center you will find all the usual amminities readily aviable. Read More
Traveling father with child. by JStevenss
Soon I'll be traveling to Vietnam with my 4yo daughter, who shares my last name. My wife will join us 1 week later. Everything is in order, passports, evisa, hotels and so on. We even got a parental consent letter which is not obligatory in our ...
I don’t know how you’ll feel about this idea but you could invite some of the Vietnamese children in the neighborhood over for free English classes. This would give your children a chance to make friends and the parents in the ... Read More
Planing to move to Vietnam by petale64
Hello everyone, my name is chantal and me and my boyfriend would like to get info on where to go in Vietnam where it’s safe.
I live in the largest city in Southern Vietnam - Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC). It is also known as called Saigon. Anyhow, I’ve been here for 9 years. During this time my wife had here phone stolen once - that’s it. The worst thing ... Read More
What are Vietnamese workers like as people? by Rudi2255477
Hello,I am planning to open a small factory in the Asian region and would like to learn more about what Vietnamese people are like.How do they generally behave or perform as workers?In comparison to Chinese workers, what are the main differences in ...
OceanBeach is correct. You are going to want a supervisor and a security guard…the employment of a security guard is standard practice in Vietnam. Read More
ESL job recommendations by Jamison123
Hi, what would you say are the better language centers or schools to work at in Vietnam? I was recently offered a position with VUS and am interviewing with Scots English, but I am hesitant about both (especially Scots). I do not yet live in Vietnam ...
@Jamison123 Sorry I can’t help you with either of those two questions, Jamison. I don’t recall ever hearing anything about the school and I’ve never been to that city/district. I’m down south in Ho Chi Minh City, perhaps ... Read More
Cost of Electricity in Vietnam by OceanBeach92107
"Electricity of Vietnam (EVN) has announced an increase in the average electricity retail price by 4.8 per cent, effective from October 11..."https://vietnamnews.vn/economy/1664805/electricity-retail-price-hiked-by-4-8-per-cent.html
@OceanBeach92107 Ah, okay I get it now. Read More
Cost of Electricity in Vietnam by OceanBeach92107
"Electricity of Vietnam (EVN) has announced an increase in the average electricity retail price by 4.8 per cent, effective from October 11..."https://vietnamnews.vn/economy/1664805/electricity-retail-price-hiked-by-4-8-per-cent.html
@QPR_FC 4,000 vnd? A bowl of Pho cost 40,000 vnd (less than $2.00 usd). I’m guessing you mean 4 million vnd? Read More
Whats the solution for ants in VN by Dannyroc3
Jeez, I hate to ask such a petty question but- when I arrived in VN I assumed mosquitoes would be a problem, but that turned out to be no problem (at least I'm my area) the bigger aggravation is the tiny ants.At the first hotel I stayed at (4th ...
@Dannyroc3 You might also try the product Aidan mentioned, recommend by the locals. The locals would know what works best for any given pest in their area.As you have already stated, what worked back home, may not work as well here. Read More
Whats the solution for ants in VN by Dannyroc3
Jeez, I hate to ask such a petty question but- when I arrived in VN I assumed mosquitoes would be a problem, but that turned out to be no problem (at least I'm my area) the bigger aggravation is the tiny ants.At the first hotel I stayed at (4th ...
@ajairon I hope one, or more, of them work. I’m happy to be of assistance. Read More
Whats the solution for ants in VN by Dannyroc3
Jeez, I hate to ask such a petty question but- when I arrived in VN I assumed mosquitoes would be a problem, but that turned out to be no problem (at least I'm my area) the bigger aggravation is the tiny ants.At the first hotel I stayed at (4th ...
@Dannyroc3 Ants dislike some strong smells. Try making a spray with spearmint or peppermint oil. Irish Spring and coast deodorant soap grated like cheese and spread in their tracks is also supposed to work And I’ve heard that chili peppers ... Read More
ESL job recommendations by Jamison123
Hi, what would you say are the better language centers or schools to work at in Vietnam? I was recently offered a position with VUS and am interviewing with Scots English, but I am hesitant about both (especially Scots). I do not yet live in Vietnam ...
I have not heard of Royal Education but there are so many companies like there’s throughout Vietnam it doesn’t surprise me, perhaps they are local to the Hanoi area and I’m down south in Ho Chi Minh City.Anyhow, you might want to ... Read More
10 things you need to know about RMIT Vietnam[B]defamatory content alert by acolarik
So you are thinking of working in Vietnam at RMIT University Vietnam LLC? Think again very carefully.Everything in this post can be supported with documents, recordings and other evidence. I deliberately waited one month before writing this to ...
I‘ve been here in Vietnam for over 9 years now and taught at a number of different schools/language centers. The honest, although sad, truth is just about everyplace I‘ve worked at has been just as you described. As a foreigner about all ... Read More
Single mom considering moving to Vietnam by GuestPoster7633
Hi everyone, I am a single mom considering moving to Vietnam, but I feel a bit nervous about going alone. Are there any other single moms here who have experience living in Vietnam? I would love to hear about your experiences and any advice you ...
As Lennerd pointed out there are some bad apples in the field of education here and they will definitely take advantage of the fact you are a foreigner in a foreign country with few legal resources.There is a high demand for English teachers and you ... Read More
Dog Bite and Rabies Vaccine by Aidan in HCMC
My GF was bitten yesterday by a dog owned by a neighbour who lives ~150 meters up the road from us. Two puncture wounds, with bleeding.I immediately took her to the S.O.S. clinic here in our village of Cua Duong. Topical antibiotic applied, ...
There’s always the option of SDD (Sudden Dog Death). Read More
ESL job recommendations by Jamison123
Hi, what would you say are the better language centers or schools to work at in Vietnam? I was recently offered a position with VUS and am interviewing with Scots English, but I am hesitant about both (especially Scots). I do not yet live in Vietnam ...
@Jamison123I could be wrong but I suspect that bit about only having openings in HCMC is just the recuiter trying to boost his numbers. Keep in mind they do get paid according to the number of teachers they bring in to their local branch(s). ... Read More
ESL job recommendations by Jamison123
Hi, what would you say are the better language centers or schools to work at in Vietnam? I was recently offered a position with VUS and am interviewing with Scots English, but I am hesitant about both (especially Scots). I do not yet live in Vietnam ...
@Jamison123 Hello Jamison you’re very welcome. I’m happy I was able to offer you some helpful advice. I have visited Hanoi but not enough to really know the area that well. However I am almost positive that VUS will have several branches ... Read More
ESL job recommendations by Jamison123
Hi, what would you say are the better language centers or schools to work at in Vietnam? I was recently offered a position with VUS and am interviewing with Scots English, but I am hesitant about both (especially Scots). I do not yet live in Vietnam ...
@Jamison123 VUS is big here and everything I‘ve heard about them has been good. I‘ve been here for 9 years and never heard of Scots so if I were you I‘d definitely go with VUS. Read More
Severe Traffic Police Crackdown? by expat97
Is anyone aware of/heard of a massive traffic police crack-down?My wife reports that the traffic police all over Vietnam have started about 1 week or so ago totally MASSIVE crack-down with huge fines.Fines for almost everything (i can only ope that ...
Apparently the fines either are not stiff enough or the police are “still” failing to enforce the laws. I’m still seeing bikes going against the traffic (wrong way on a one way street), treating the sidewalks like roads etc. Read More
Severe Traffic Police Crackdown? by expat97
Is anyone aware of/heard of a massive traffic police crack-down?My wife reports that the traffic police all over Vietnam have started about 1 week or so ago totally MASSIVE crack-down with huge fines.Fines for almost everything (i can only ope that ...
@OceanBeach92107 Although I feel for those who are low income facing some very hefty fines, I have to admit this is good news to me. I arrived here in 2016 and, even though I’ve gotten somewhat used to it, the traffic has always been appalling ... Read More
Visa Photo Rejected x3 by ushfuhg
Visa Photo Rejected x3...I give up. Will have to cut my planned stay in Vietnam to only 45 days...Their visa online system SUCKS ! Hope the country itself is not as badly managed, but Im guessing it probably is LOL. Any tips on getting a photo NOT ...
I agree with Oceanbeach. Just go to a passport photo shop. They have the experience and the tools to do it correctly and the cost is pretty minor. It should save you a lot of frustration and headaches. Read More
Off Topic Posts - Whats on your mind? by SimCityAT
This thread is for everything Off-topic..........[img align=C]https://www.askideas.com/media/13/Burning-Whats-Up-Gif-Picture.gif[/img]
I’m not an electrician but just looking at the cable and phone wires running overhead in the streets boggles my mind. When I first arrived here (2016) I thought they must have blackouts and fires all the time and it still amazes me that they ... Read More
Recent Motorcycle Taxi Ride by Lennerd
At the risk of plagiarism, I tell the story of a recent motorcycle taxi ride:Pulls into traffic without looking. Check. ☑️Turns left after pulling into intersection on a red light. ☑️Runs multiple red lights. ...
@Lennerd Welcome to Vietnam : - ) It’s surprising how few accidents actually happen on these streets. I call it organized chaos. Read More
Why do people ride their scooters with no lights on at night? by qnbui
Just don't understand why they would ride their scooter without lights on at night! Sometimes I even see cars without lights but less often than scooters. I understand the you need to avoid me mentality but they can't avoid you if they can't see ...
@saigondave2 Ha ha ha Ho Ho Ho that’s a good one…to save fuel.Makes me wonder if they would like to save a life - maybe their own? Read More
Vietnamese boyfriend by Yurin Cos
I broke up with my Vietnamese boyfriend a few day's ago, He was the first boyfriend I ever had, he's always so soft...and so on more than any good thing he ever did....What would they do after break up for Vietnamese boys... I wonder will he ...
@Yurin Cos The only way to find out is to ask him. The worst he can do is say no. Read More
Off Topic Posts - Whats on your mind? by SimCityAT
This thread is for everything Off-topic..........[img align=C]https://www.askideas.com/media/13/Burning-Whats-Up-Gif-Picture.gif[/img]
@dsmedley630 My Vietnamese wife… sometimes she only eats half and leaves the other 3.5 for me…ya, I don’t get it either. Read More
ESL teaching job by Khonnie
I need some help with getting an ESL teaching job
@KhonnieWhat country are you wanting a job in? Here in Vietnam you’ll need a BA (any discipline), certification to teach English (TEFL or similar) and a criminal background check. The school/English center that hires you will take care of the ... Read More
Vietnam/ German Language Exchange
Hello Friends My Vietnamese wife would like to learn German and is looking for a German language speaker who would like to learn Vietnamese for language exchange sessions. If anyone is interested please send me a private message. Thank you. Read More
Car question by qnbui
Not sure when I'll muster up enough courage to drive a car in VN after moving to VN but I've always read or heard that car in VN are 2-3x more expensive than you would buy in the US due to the import taxes levied on them. So what about the Vinfast ...
I’ve heard both stories and my guess is it is a little bit of both. My wife and I bought a car about two years ago now. We looked at Vinfast and the prices were not that much better- we finally decided on a Toyota. My wife is a very finicky ... Read More
Visit Vietnam for first time by tomgmu
I'm planning to visit Vietnam this year. However, I've never been there before, so some advise would be appreciated:I love the sea, nature, swimming and snorkeling. I would like to avoid very touristy places and the crowded tourist traps. Which ...
I know it provides more peace of mind to book accommodations ahead of time but I’ve been in Vietnam for eight years now and I’m quite sure you’ll get a much better deal with feet on the ground upon arrival (preferably with the ... Read More
Amazon alternatives for VN by qnbui
Hello, just wondering which websites are alternatives for Amazon. I looked at the shipping from Amazon to VN and the cost just does not make sense and items that will ship to VN are limited so wondering if there are alternatives to Amazon when ...
@qnbuiWe are in HCMC and they deliver to us so it’s probably safe to presume they would deliver in other large cities but I don’t personally know of any other large cities they have delivered to. If I were you, I’d go to their ... Read More
English Teaching at home when married to a Vn national by thaypatrick1
Hi,I am living in Vn with my Vn wife and children. I have a 3 year TRC. We live in a small village and wish to start teaching English at our home to a few local children, (around 10), about 3 hours a week. This will be a chargable service, but would ...
I too have been teaching off and on out of my home (HCMC) sinse I arrived here in January 2016. Never had a visit from any authorities - no paper work and no coffee money. It’s never a bad idea to check with your local authorities but, to the ... Read More
Amazon alternatives for VN by qnbui
Hello, just wondering which websites are alternatives for Amazon. I looked at the shipping from Amazon to VN and the cost just does not make sense and items that will ship to VN are limited so wondering if there are alternatives to Amazon when ...
@Brigitte CulletI know for a fact that my wife does pay electronically so it is possible to pay in advance. It is possible she knows someone personally who works there and has made special arrangements not available to everyone. I really don’t ... Read More
Amazon alternatives for VN by qnbui
Hello, just wondering which websites are alternatives for Amazon. I looked at the shipping from Amazon to VN and the cost just does not make sense and items that will ship to VN are limited so wondering if there are alternatives to Amazon when ...
Yes, Lazada and Shopee. My wife does most of the shopping for us and buys many things on shopee. They have some food items that are hard to find in the local stores/markets. I’m not sure just how she does it but she pays electronically for ... Read More
Am I really a bad teacher? Or is something up? by Noelwastaken
Hi everyone, I'm back with more questions about living and working here as an expat.I just got a message from my new boss, telling me I have to observe one of my coworker's classes tonight after I'm done teaching, because one of the schools were not ...
I’m so sorry to here about your experience here in Vietnam. Your post doesn’t clarify if you have a TOEFL or similar certification along with a BA (any field). Without these things you can’t teach “legally” ... Read More
Job opportunities for foreigners in Vietnam by sundaybetiku
I have been reading about many interesting things about Vietnam and wish to relocate to Vietnam from Nigeria only if I am assured of getting a job (not necessarily a high class job to start up). I am a Professional Accountant, Auditor and ...
@sundaybetiku No problem. Happy to help. I hope you find what you’re looking for. Read More
Job opportunities for foreigners in Vietnam by sundaybetiku
I have been reading about many interesting things about Vietnam and wish to relocate to Vietnam from Nigeria only if I am assured of getting a job (not necessarily a high class job to start up). I am a Professional Accountant, Auditor and ...
@sundaybetiku I know it probably isn’t what you wanted to hear but maybe it’s what you needed to hear. Eather way, I hope it helps. Read More
Job opportunities for foreigners in Vietnam by sundaybetiku
I have been reading about many interesting things about Vietnam and wish to relocate to Vietnam from Nigeria only if I am assured of getting a job (not necessarily a high class job to start up). I am a Professional Accountant, Auditor and ...
You sound like a good man with a lot of experience under your belt so this is not easy to say but unless you can speak Vietnamese quit fluently I’m pretty sure you are going to find it almost impossible to find work it your area of experience. ... Read More
Social security payments in Vietnam by GuestPoster2501
I'm receiving SSDI payments in Vietnam. I have yet to receive a payment, the direct deposit information just changed. I usually get my payments on the third of the month in the US, how much of a delay will I experience with a Vietnamese bank? ...
I have been getting my SS checks deposited directly into ACB Bank here in HCMC sinse 2022. When I first set it up I did have to get the name on my SS card changed to match the name on my passport (Passport has full middle name while SS card did have ... Read More
Is the vietnamcupid dating site legit by HenryJo
I joined yesterday. Today, found my inbox swamped with messages 'from girls'. Have a slight suspicion that not all the messages may be legit. Perhaps, to temp me in to signing-up for the paid subscriptions? Can anyone using the paid ...
I first met my wife on this sight back in 2014. I came to VN in 2016 and married her 6 months later. We are still happily married today. Read More
I'm kind of in a mess (First time English teacher in Vietnam) by Noelwastaken
Hi I just found this forum and I'm kind of typing this in a rush because I'm pretty freaked out at the moment.I've been working as an English teacher in Vietnam for the past (almost) 2 months.My boss showed me a contract at the beginning but I never ...
Ditto that part about the English teachers groups. They should be able to help you get on the right path. I'm pretty sure they cannot keep or cancel your visa but rules and regulations change here regularly so check with the teachers groups. There ... Read More
Videos of teaching by DylanG
is there any good videos of people teaching in Vietnam, id honestly just love to see how people go about this, i still can't comprehend teaching someone who doesn't understand any English to speak English, do they use translators or ...
@DylanGI'm not saying it's impossible to find them in large populated cities like HCMC and Hanoi but they are much easier to find in the outlying areas like farming communities. My suggestion would be for you to volunteer some time teaching or ... Read More
How can I survive without a job in Vietnam? by Seth NRETIA ESSIEN
How can I survive without a job in Vietnam?I entered the country in August and started working in September. Unfortunately, I had a motor accident and broke my knee on my way to school on October 10. My company abandoned me. I had no money, no ...
"I can walk now but schools are on vacation so there is no job. " Check with the English Language Centers. Several of them work throughout the year. Read More
How can I survive without a job in Vietnam? by Seth NRETIA ESSIEN
How can I survive without a job in Vietnam?I entered the country in August and started working in September. Unfortunately, I had a motor accident and broke my knee on my way to school on October 10. My company abandoned me. I had no money, no ...
You could try some of the English Centers. Many of them are open year around but I don’t recommend APAX . They cheated myself and many other teachers out of 12 months pay back when COVID hit and the last time I heard they were still at it. Read More
Single mother of 5, wanting to move to Vietnam by sandynguyen134
Hello!!I have been researching on moving to Vietnam for some time now but I haven't found any topics that is specific to me so I hope this would bring me some clarity on the topic at hand. As stated above I am a single mother who wishes to ...
Hello and welcome to the forum. I am an American Expat, married to a Vietnamese woman. I have been living here in HCMC since January 2016. I disagree with those who say that long term Expats are not welcome here and the people are not friendly. I ... Read More
Buying a new phone (Samsung Ultra S23)in Vietnam by John123470
Hello,I am currently in London, travelling to Vietnam next weekI am about to buy a Samsung S23 Ultra phone here in London. This model is around £1400 in London. These models are also made in Samsung factory in VietnamI am just wondering if ...
@MyGuess Something is off with these quotes. 22 - 45k in VND is only 1 - 2 USD. I think they mean 22 - 45 Mil. VND. Read More
Age limits for teaching in Vietnam by John123470
Hi Everyone,Does anyone have an idea about getting teaching work in Vietnam (Hanoi specifically) in one's 60's - and getting a work visa for same Fit, able and well qualified native English male teacher, ESP, Ielts, General, Business English, lots ...
There are a few places that prefer younger teachers but there are plenty who prefer the older, more experienced teachers. It looks like you have a lot to offer I can't imagine you having much trouble finding work here in Vietnam. There are still ... Read More
Want to teach English but no degree? by Aidan in HCMC
This might be for you! I'm told by a local that the teachers are earning up to 35 million a month.Google Dich translation, here, and continued here.;)
@Aidan in HCMC Sorry. There was no article at the top of this page. Therefore, I ignorantly replied to something I should have ignored : - ) Read More
Want to teach English but no degree? by Aidan in HCMC
This might be for you! I'm told by a local that the teachers are earning up to 35 million a month.Google Dich translation, here, and continued here.;)
Fake certificates say you are for lazy, disrespectful, no good people and you will not be welcome in Vietnam with a fake certificate. Besides the certificate is not all the documentation you will need to teach here and I'm not going to tell you ... Read More
Are 3 year degrees not valid in Vietnam? by Mezz007
I've read everywhere that Vietnam requires a 4 year degree from whoever that holds a TEFL degree.If one has a 3 year degree, will they face problems when trying to land a job or be simply rejected?
I've read everywhere that Vietnam requires a 4 year degree from whoever that holds a TEFL degree.If one has a 3 year degree, will they face problems when trying to land a job or be simply rejected? -@Mezz You're just revealing more about what you ... Read More
Getting a TEFl job with no degree (Non-native) by Mezz007
Hi there,I'm Mezz, a 20-year-old guy, who has always been fascinated about travelling. Since my childhood, I've been dreaming about traveling across the globe and writing novels. I have a high school degree -- that too through a distance learning ...
@Aidan in edit; By the way, do you know which nationality of English teacher is discriminated against the most in Vietnam? They are the Vietnamese English teachers. And yes, this includes Viet Kieu whose first language is English.Ha ha ha, that's so ... Read More
Getting a TEFl job with no degree (Non-native) by Mezz007
Hi there,I'm Mezz, a 20-year-old guy, who has always been fascinated about travelling. Since my childhood, I've been dreaming about traveling across the globe and writing novels. I have a high school degree -- that too through a distance learning ...
@Mezz007 As I said, I got my TEFL through the university so I'm not really the person to ask about online TEFL's. Perhaps one of the other expats can help you with that. On there other hand, I can tell you that Cambridge is widely used and ... Read More
Getting a TEFl job with no degree (Non-native) by Mezz007
Hi there,I'm Mezz, a 20-year-old guy, who has always been fascinated about travelling. Since my childhood, I've been dreaming about traveling across the globe and writing novels. I have a high school degree -- that too through a distance learning ...
@Mezz007 I think you misunderstood what THIGV said. "about US$2.00/HR less" - meaning if the others are getting $20 USD per hour you might be offered $18 USD per hour. Read More
Getting a TEFl job with no degree (Non-native) by Mezz007
Hi there,I'm Mezz, a 20-year-old guy, who has always been fascinated about travelling. Since my childhood, I've been dreaming about traveling across the globe and writing novels. I have a high school degree -- that too through a distance learning ...
As previously stated, be sure you are financially stable before you move out on your own. Get your BA - yes any subject will work but Education/English will give you that little extra edge. Get your TEFL - I got mine at university and I'm not real ... Read More
Getting a TEFl job with no degree (Non-native) by Mezz007
Hi there,I'm Mezz, a 20-year-old guy, who has always been fascinated about travelling. Since my childhood, I've been dreaming about traveling across the globe and writing novels. I have a high school degree -- that too through a distance learning ...
@Mezz007 With a degree and a TEFI you'll probably be ably to find a teaching job in Vietnam but the pay will be low and you'll likely have to settle for someplace out away from the large cities - meaning small towns/cities out in the countryside. Read More
TENANTS HAVE DONE A RUNNER by goodolboy
Just the strangest thing this one..................so we rent out an apartment in D12 & for a year the tenants (Vietnamese middle aged man & young Vietnamese "wife") paid the rent no problems until about 2 months back they stopped paying. ...
You own the unit so it seems to me like anything left behind legally becomes yours but I'm not a lawyer so you might want to get that confirmed. If true then I'd say it's time for a yard sale. Read More
TENANTS HAVE DONE A RUNNER by goodolboy
Just the strangest thing this one..................so we rent out an apartment in D12 & for a year the tenants (Vietnamese middle aged man & young Vietnamese "wife") paid the rent no problems until about 2 months back they stopped paying. ...
@goodolboy No need to apologize . You did nothing wrong. Thank you for letting me know. Read More
TENANTS HAVE DONE A RUNNER by goodolboy
Just the strangest thing this one..................so we rent out an apartment in D12 & for a year the tenants (Vietnamese middle aged man & young Vietnamese "wife") paid the rent no problems until about 2 months back they stopped paying. ...
Hum. My wife cooks and would love to have a full size oven (or at least something larger than a tabletop model). Did they happen to leave one behind? Might be interested in the microwave too. Ours is quit old. Send me a private message if you're ... Read More
DUI and strict rules by jrharvey
I dont know the exact law or where to find it. Just what I read in some translated news articles. Ive heard multiple times that cops will give DUI's for having a single beer in your system and showing any kind of alcohol content regardless of how ...
Call Grabcar or Grabbike. It's so cheap why risk it? Remember we are guests in a foreign country. Just obey the laws. Read More
Is the vietnamcupid dating site legit by HenryJo
I joined yesterday. Today, found my inbox swamped with messages 'from girls'. Have a slight suspicion that not all the messages may be legit. Perhaps, to temp me in to signing-up for the paid subscriptions? Can anyone using the paid ...
Admittedly I am old and I’ve never been on Tinder, but I met my VN wife on Vietnam Cupid back in 2015. Eight years later and we’re still going strong so I can testify from personal experience that Vietnam Cupid does work , however you do ... Read More
Old men with young Vietnamese wives/girlfriends by pathixon48
How is it working out?
@WillyBaldy Your point is well taken. I was older but not so wise at the time. Come to think of it, I still have a lot to learn. Read More
Old men with young Vietnamese wives/girlfriends by pathixon48
How is it working out?
My first marriage she had just turned 21 and I was three months shy of 39. A beautiful Filipino girl but 7 years and a 5 year old daughter later she was already messing around with other men and refused to go to counseling - so that was the end of ... Read More
Rate for Cheap Rooms
I have sent you a private message. Please check your messages and let us know if you're interested. Read More
US government treasury check by Budman1
A friend of mine that's been here for years got a EIB check mailed to here late last year. He closed his US bank account when he moved over here a long time ago so he can't send it back there for deposit. The VCB that he has a account with won't ...
@Budman1 My first recommendation would have been VCB but, apparently, that doesn't work. The only other thing I can think of is Western Union. I understand that would be the expensive way to go but it may be the only way unless he knows someone he ... Read More
TESOL Certificate for Embassy approval OR Setup a Company? by JON92
TESOL Coarse Online Needed - Quick, Cheap and Official for Vietnam.I am a Citizen of United States. Native English speaker. I hold a Masters degree in Business. I am currently residing in Vietnam, I need an official TESOL certificate.I already have ...
@JON92 It’s been several years since I went through the process but it sounds about right. Good luck. Read More
TESOL Certificate for Embassy approval OR Setup a Company? by JON92
TESOL Coarse Online Needed - Quick, Cheap and Official for Vietnam.I am a Citizen of United States. Native English speaker. I hold a Masters degree in Business. I am currently residing in Vietnam, I need an official TESOL certificate.I already have ...
I got my TESL through as a student physically present in university so I’m not really familiar with online classes but you could try googling Cambridge University and see if they offer an online class for TESL. If they do I’m sure it ... Read More
Is 70mil per month enough for a family of 3? by WidnesRob
My wife and I are currently looking to move to Vietnam. I have secured work and my job will provide accommodation. We are coming with a 6 month baby (thats how old she will be when we move) and my wife is currently still looking for work. We would ...
WidnesRob has some very good advice. If you have never been here you should definitely visit before making the big move. I’ve been here for 7 years and I love it but you may not feel the same. Read More
Opening a bank account by williamherron13
We send money from the US to my wife's sister in Vietnam regularly and visit every year or so. Use a service located here that charges a reasonable fee and delivers to her doorstep within 24 hours. I wonder if we opened a joint account ...
@Svho Yes, your assumption is correct...in fact I have three accounts at three different banks here. But mostly I use ACB. As for sending USD from the US without an account here your best bet is most likely just continue sending it to your ... Read More
Opening a bank account by williamherron13
We send money from the US to my wife's sister in Vietnam regularly and visit every year or so. Use a service located here that charges a reasonable fee and delivers to her doorstep within 24 hours. I wonder if we opened a joint account ...
@Svho I’ve been here for 7 years. I have money deposited directly into my account account and have never paid a fee. I do have my VN wife on the account but that shouldn’t make any difference with fees. I keep an account open in America ... Read More
Visas To Enter Vietnam by Aidan in HCMC
***(IMPORTANT! Due to current covid measures, check with Vietnam Immigration Authority to confirm current availability and lengths of validity)***List of the Visas types from Vietnamese Immigration ...
I'm not sure how fussy they are in Canada and Korea but I can tell you it may very well be a problem when you get to Vietnam. I had an issue when starting up my Social Security Checks a while back. The name on my Social Security card was (changed ... Read More
You can't turn off the water by ChoculaD
I’m looking for an apartment. I recently viewed one and asked the owner (it’s a condominium) if he could demonstrate the shower for me, as I wanted to see if it had enough water pressure. Well, something was not connected, the water ...
I spent my first year here in an apartment building and never had a problem. A year later, when my wife and I moved into her elderly parents place so we could take care of them I was startled to find there was no water shut off valves in the either ... Read More
Need help - Making a decision to live in Vietnam by Svho
I just visited Vietnam in December. Visited phu quoc, Dalat, rach Gia, danang ( where I was born) and of course hcm.Been thinking of living there in several years but not sure what route to go. Apply for dual citizenship?i don’t have any ...
If your wife is Vietnamese you have the option of obtaining a permanent resident card. It takes a few years (5 I think) and it's not really permanent but it is good for 10 years (I think) and is much better than the two year temp. card. Read More
The cost of Living in Vietnam in 2023 by Mickael
Hello everyone, As every year, we invite you to share your experience on the evolution of the cost of living in the region or city where you live in order to answer future requests for information from new members of the site who would like to ...
Cost of living can vary wildly depending on lifestyle, habits, and location. With that being said, I live in HCMC and the average monthly wage for a Vietnamese citizen here is perhaps around $500 (out in the countryside I suspect it's much cheaper). ... Read More
US drivers licences for expats by woodsdancer
I am finding it increasingly difficult to get/renew a US drivers license. I normally do not drive a car in Vietnam so I have no real need for a Vietnamese license. More to the point, a Vietnamese license is essentially useless when visiting the US ...
I just renewed my Hawaii license through the mail with a little help from a friend there in Hawaii. Here is what I had to do:1) Download, print off and fill out the proper forms. A. I had to fly over to the Philippines in order to get ... Read More
Coldest Day of The Year in Vietnam by OceanBeach92107
It was pretty darned cold this morning in Nghĩa Hiệp, Tư Nghĩa, Quang Ngai, Việt Nam.Even without checking the weather records I knew for a fact that it was the coldest day of the year!
Had a family wedding up near Hanoi a couple of years ago. We with rain/snow mixture the whole time we were there. I remember being so happy when we got back to HCMC. Read More
Insurance help! -Renting a motorbike from an individual by Rosie Myers
Hi How does bike insurance work in Vietnam? UK driver's license means we can only ride a 50cc bike so options are limited. One person is willing to rent to us but they are not an official bike renting business, it is just their spare bike. Is a bike ...
@OceanBeach92107 Motorbike insurance is supposed to cover for liability but a motorbike license is required and under 30% (at most) are ever actually paid. Most of the time the two people involved in the accident will settle between themselves ... Read More
Insurance help! -Renting a motorbike from an individual by Rosie Myers
Hi How does bike insurance work in Vietnam? UK driver's license means we can only ride a 50cc bike so options are limited. One person is willing to rent to us but they are not an official bike renting business, it is just their spare bike. Is a bike ...
@Rosie Myers I have sent you a private message. My wife can help you with this but there are some people on this form who are not very kind and we would rather not go public. Please check your private messages. Read More
Ordering books online - ship to Vietnam..? by jtodter
My grandchildren, 7 and 11, are moving to Vietnam soon from Australia. They are very keen readers. Anyone know online book places that ship to Vietnam?
@OceanBeach92107 Interesting. When I flew in I had several boxes of books I included in my luggage - nothing was ever said or even opened for inspection. I guess I got lucky...but it did cost me a small fortune to fly them in. Read More
How to travel with TRC by Dragi
Hey,I just got my TRC from my workplace. I'm quite pleased about it. Simply said, I'm wondering how entering and departing the country works with it. I don't believe that I received any stamps in my passport. Do I simply present the TRC ...
I'm just confirming what colinoscapee said. I've been living in Vietnam for 7 years. I've gone in and out of the country several times and never had any trouble. The general rule of thumb is whenever you present your passport present your TRC along ... Read More
Traveler's insurance as resident? by dustanddirtofheaven
Can you get traveler's insurance if you are coming on a work visa or living on a TRC? Or do you need a different kind of insurance plan in that case? I won't have any through my employer because I'd be working part-time.If I come on an e-visa, ...
@dustanddirtofheaven Please check your private messages. My Vietnamese wife will not comment on the Expat post. While most expats are very kind and helpful a few are very rude and have hurt her in the past. With that being said, she still has a soft ... Read More
Certified Check or Money Order by drutter
I need a hard copy of a Certified Check or Money Order payable in US dollars. I have to send this to Hawaii via snail mail with an application to renew my driver's license. I have tried several banks and Western Union. I was really surprised to find ...
@Fred Hi, Fred I appreciate the link but it's a little to late. I already have my renew packet filled out and ready to mail (absent the certified check). My friend will pick-up the license for me in Hawaii and mail it to me here. When you get the ... Read More
Certified Check or Money Order by drutter
I need a hard copy of a Certified Check or Money Order payable in US dollars. I have to send this to Hawaii via snail mail with an application to renew my driver's license. I have tried several banks and Western Union. I was really surprised to find ...
@Fred I can prove residents with bank statements from my bank in Hawaii as well as my drivers license...plus I have a friend who kindly allowed me to use their Hawaii address as my "regular" address. Read More
Certified Check or Money Order
I need a hard copy of a Certified Check or Money Order payable in US dollars. I have to send this to Hawaii via snail mail with an application to renew my driver's license. I have tried several banks and Western Union. I was really surprised to find ... Read More
Reputable Insurance Companies by tsshapiro
Hello all, I've been shopping around for life insurance. Can anyone recommend a reputable company? Has anybody purchased life insurance in Vietnam before? Thanks in Advance.
Whoops. I need to remember to check those dates. Thanks for the reminder,Andy. Read More
Reputable Insurance Companies by tsshapiro
Hello all, I've been shopping around for life insurance. Can anyone recommend a reputable company? Has anybody purchased life insurance in Vietnam before? Thanks in Advance.
@tsshapiro My wife would be happy to help you. Let me know if you're interested. Read More
Phu Quoc - The reality of life with a young child? by KirstyJ82
Hi there!An employment opportunity has presented itself which would mean myself, my husband and child (currently 13 months old) re-locating to Phu Quoc for a minimum of 12 months. The island looks beautiful - if this was just me and the husband we ...
@KirstyJ82 I'm happy I was able to help you out. As for you question about bike trails, my best guess would be somewhere near the parks. Probably the best advice I can give you on this subject is where not to go...and that would be in the big ... Read More
Phu Quoc - The reality of life with a young child? by KirstyJ82
Hi there!An employment opportunity has presented itself which would mean myself, my husband and child (currently 13 months old) re-locating to Phu Quoc for a minimum of 12 months. The island looks beautiful - if this was just me and the husband we ...
Hello, Kristy and, again, congratulations on the job offer. I live in HCMC but having come here from Hawaii almost 7 years ago, Phu Quoc is my favorite vacation spot here in Vietnam. I've been there several times. Although I can't advise you on ... Read More
Expat.com article confused about cost of living in Vietnam by gobot
Did you get your expat.com email "Asian countries benefit from China's decline" ?Article titled "Which Asian countries are benefiting from China's loss of attractivity (sic) ?"[ Problem 2: the "link" feature in the editor is not working, nothing ...
One could get along on $500 as long as your willing to live like most of the Vietnamese here but if you want a fairly nice house/apartment I'd plan to spend $400 - 500 for that alone. Another $200 - 300 hundred will cover everything else as long as ... Read More
Road rules... by Guestposter822
Just wondering if it's legal to turn right at a red light ? I've noticed that some Vietnamese stop and some go through the red light when turning right...
...and the show goes on. After 7 years I'm getting better but I still curse at some of these dare devils' who seem to be in a big hurry to get to their graves. Read More
VN Foods perhaps Least Appealing to the Western Palate (or Psyche) by Aidan in HCMC
This thread is started for the benefit of new expat arrivals to Vietnam. Welcome, and, BON APPÉTIT!Your pick(s), with a pic(s), of Vietnamese food that would probably be least appealing to a western visitor.Here's two from me.Trứng ...
@Aidan in HCMC Trứng lộn actually doesn't bother me. They're not my favorite by far but I enjoy eating them with my Vietnamese wife once in a while...and yes, sometimes I do find feathers. Read More
What district to stay in HCM? by yudirajput
Hi,I will be arriving to HCM on June 1.I will really appreciate if anyone can advise what district to stay for a week. Preferences will be for somewhere away from night clubs/pubs.Any valuable suggestions/advise will be highly appreciated ...
If cost is a factor, you might consider Go Vap district. I've been living here since I arrived in Jan. 2016. Although there are certainly some noisy areas, the area I live in near the new Cityland complex is fairly quiet for Vietnam and the cost of ... Read More