It2VN
English expat in Vietnam
Forum posts
75
Contacts
1
About me
English
Lives in Da Nang, Vietnam
Registration: 09 November 2019
LETS HAVE A LAUGH BUT NO FILTH by goodolboy
windscreen wipers https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=020InK5E99A
Why do Australians go up at the end of a sentence? Because their ancestors went down at the beginning of theirs. (Barry Cryer, on the origins of 'upspeak' coming from Australian soaps) Read More
Money transfer of USD to Wise via VN by It2VN
I was wondering if anyone here has (had) the same problem . As someone who can receive funds from a particular source which pays out only in one currency -US dollars, I need to convert them into euros for transfer to an E.U.-based account. I have a ...
As my account's country field was greyed out for Vietnam, I couldn't change it on the app (though it allowed me to update my residential city address in Italy). Indeed, I had to contact them via the app supplying a recent official document with my ... Read More
Money transfer of USD to Wise via VN by It2VN
I was wondering if anyone here has (had) the same problem . As someone who can receive funds from a particular source which pays out only in one currency -US dollars, I need to convert them into euros for transfer to an E.U.-based account. I have a ...
As my account's country field was greyed out for Vietnam, I couldn't change it on the app (though it allowed me to update my residential city address in Italy). Indeed, I had to contact them via the app supplying a recent official document with my ... Read More
Money transfer of USD to Wise via VN
I was wondering if anyone here has (had) the same problem . As someone who can receive funds from a particular source which pays out only in one currency -US dollars, I need to convert them into euros for transfer to an E.U.-based account. I have a ... Read More
Standard mail times to Europe? by It2VN
To post standard format envelope airmail from Bangkok (containing a USB key/drive to the E,U. (not UK)). How long does this typically take with standard mail system ? (and is it permissible to send such content without a problem?).
Yes, thanks, I know I could use fedex, dhl whatever but it's not so urgent to use such a pricey tracked service. Read More
Standard mail times to Europe?
To post standard format envelope airmail from Bangkok (containing a USB key/drive to the E,U. (not UK)). How long does this typically take with standard mail system ? (and is it permissible to send such content without a problem?). Read More
Traffic law question by It2VN
I am referring to pedestrian crossings (as they are called in the UK); the white stripes across the street or road where pedestrians should be able to have priority over vehicles for safe crossing to the other side, the vehicles giving way or ...
Hello everyone, To clarify my intervention, let’s keep the discussion focused on the original topic and steer clear of politics. 😉 - @Cheryl yeah. Which was pedestrian right of way, and driver/rider intimidation and culpability for ... Read More
Traffic law question by It2VN
I am referring to pedestrian crossings (as they are called in the UK); the white stripes across the street or road where pedestrians should be able to have priority over vehicles for safe crossing to the other side, the vehicles giving way or ...
From the lack of answers to my original final question if you ride and/or drive, I might just assume you all follow the 'when in Rome' pathology. - @It2VN I purposely avoided doing anything to magnify the anger and expressions of violent thought in ... Read More
Traffic law question by It2VN
I am referring to pedestrian crossings (as they are called in the UK); the white stripes across the street or road where pedestrians should be able to have priority over vehicles for safe crossing to the other side, the vehicles giving way or ...
Admirable to get such feedback about the adaptation to local living. I'm aware of the meaning of the proverb, too.On a (possibly) related note, extending the observations on rules/law I recently saw on a travel forum a tourist complaining about the ... Read More
Traffic law question by It2VN
I am referring to pedestrian crossings (as they are called in the UK); the white stripes across the street or road where pedestrians should be able to have priority over vehicles for safe crossing to the other side, the vehicles giving way or ...
From the lack of answers to my original final question if you ride and/or drive, I might just assume you all follow the 'when in Rome' pathology. Read More
Traffic law question by It2VN
I am referring to pedestrian crossings (as they are called in the UK); the white stripes across the street or road where pedestrians should be able to have priority over vehicles for safe crossing to the other side, the vehicles giving way or ...
1. Crosswalks in Vietnam are for suckers 2. Nobody crosses the street at a 90° angle 3. Always cross the street at a 45° diagonal angle, making constant eye contact with oncoming traffic. Think of yourself as a large rock being moved ... Read More
Traffic law question by It2VN
I am referring to pedestrian crossings (as they are called in the UK); the white stripes across the street or road where pedestrians should be able to have priority over vehicles for safe crossing to the other side, the vehicles giving way or ...
1. Crosswalks in Vietnam are for suckers 2. Nobody crosses the street at a 90° angle 3. Always cross the street at a 45° diagonal angle, making constant eye contact with oncoming traffic. Think of yourself as a large rock being moved ... Read More
Traffic law question by It2VN
I am referring to pedestrian crossings (as they are called in the UK); the white stripes across the street or road where pedestrians should be able to have priority over vehicles for safe crossing to the other side, the vehicles giving way or ...
LOLs all round! Probably another reason VN will remain a third world county for the foreseeable future I suppose. Read More
Traffic law question by It2VN
I am referring to pedestrian crossings (as they are called in the UK); the white stripes across the street or road where pedestrians should be able to have priority over vehicles for safe crossing to the other side, the vehicles giving way or ...
@2- 1) no idea what "Thegioididong or FTP shop" is2) Can't stand Enya .aside from that, thanks for the input. Read More
Traffic law question
I am referring to pedestrian crossings (as they are called in the UK); the white stripes across the street or road where pedestrians should be able to have priority over vehicles for safe crossing to the other side, the vehicles giving way or ... Read More
Cebu debut: locations? by It2VN
In March I'm heading to Cebu to see if it could be a place to settle. My idea is to spend a month or two initially in Cebu city or one of its divisions or adjacent cities (Mandaue etc).Staying in a hotel upon arrival then renting an apartment in a ...
Thankyou for the continued input. More devastatingly forensic analysis from the Lotus Eater . Read More
Cebu debut: locations? by It2VN
In March I'm heading to Cebu to see if it could be a place to settle. My idea is to spend a month or two initially in Cebu city or one of its divisions or adjacent cities (Mandaue etc).Staying in a hotel upon arrival then renting an apartment in a ...
4 & 5 thanks for the suggestions. will look into them. Read More
Cebu debut: locations? by It2VN
In March I'm heading to Cebu to see if it could be a place to settle. My idea is to spend a month or two initially in Cebu city or one of its divisions or adjacent cities (Mandaue etc).Staying in a hotel upon arrival then renting an apartment in a ...
@Lotus EaterThanks for your contribution. Read More
Cebu debut: locations?
In March I'm heading to Cebu to see if it could be a place to settle. My idea is to spend a month or two initially in Cebu city or one of its divisions or adjacent cities (Mandaue etc).Staying in a hotel upon arrival then renting an apartment in a ... 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 ...
@It2VN Sounds good. But reports have shown that Monday the 15th will be counted as "day zero", Tuesday the 16th then being day one, with a hoped-for eVisa issuance being late Thursday (18th) or early Friday(19th). My only suggestion is that you ... 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 ...
Hello Again.Just done a short break visa run in Kuala Lumpur. Got 45 days again re-entry.Seeking just a clarification on doing an online 3 month visa application next time.I'm thinking of going to Seoul just before Christmas for 5 nights, departing ... 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 ...
Thank you again for taking the time to respond. Considering all, at this point I think I might as well just do the free 45 day waiver, at least once. then see how my plans for another 3-monther pan out. 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 ...
Thanks for the valuable input, OB.So, to clarify: i should use one passport. I can apply for 3m visa using it but if I don't receive 3m visa in time for my return flight, it's ok to enter on same passport under 45day visa waiver system. Is ... 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 ...
Hello again. As my 3 month visa expiry is just over 3 weeks away, a thought occurred to me re. possible renewals. The last date i can be here is 19 September (passport stamp). I'm booked to fly out on 18th and return 22nd. Ideally i would like ... Read More
Airports WIFI by brianAFSER73
puzzling. ? Wifi is avail able in most airports nowaday
It can be useful if one needs to book a Grab for example before getting a SIM set up. Although with eSims and the multiple desks selling SIms these days, it's probably less required than in the past. I know I used it when I was SIMless . Read More
Border runs by tomtomshay
any good companies HCMC ? for moc by border runs
Thanks for the input, Aidan.The FB guy is from the U.S. it seems.Re. The dual passport evisa idea: it was just a thought - to possibly avoid over-scrutiny of motives or movements by authorities. After having read the delays or complications ... Read More
Border runs by tomtomshay
any good companies HCMC ? for moc by border runs
This topic is in my thoughts, too.I've been in Da Nang three weeks and it's great so far.I came in on a 90day Multi-entry visa on my Italian passport.I will probably go to Hong Kong for a few days in September (within my 90 days) to visit a friend. ... Read More
Dog as pet in Hanoi by Teacher On Duty
Hi everyone,I'm considering relocating to Hanoi and would love to bring my dog with me. However, I'm a bit concerned about safety—especially after hearing stories about pet theft and the risk of dogs being stolen and sold.Does anyone have ...
Most or all of the ones I've seen are with locals. Read More
Dog as pet in Hanoi by Teacher On Duty
Hi everyone,I'm considering relocating to Hanoi and would love to bring my dog with me. However, I'm a bit concerned about safety—especially after hearing stories about pet theft and the risk of dogs being stolen and sold.Does anyone have ...
A tangential point- in My An ,Da Nang, there are many corgis for some reason. They're everywhere. 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]
When ordering breakfast at hotel you can get one egg and toast for $2.50. If you buy two eggs and toast it will cost $3.50. What the hell is wrong with the second egg! - @Guest2023 I'm reading and loving lot's of these and hearing George Carlin ... Read More
Most common scams in Vietnam by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Settling in Vietnam as an expat implies navigating into a new and unfamiliar environment and habits, making you potentially vulnerable to scammers. Whether it’s immigration or finance advice, housing scam, online traps or ...
Banged off an email yesterday. Let's see what results...(Doesn't hold breath...) Read More
Most common scams in Vietnam by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Settling in Vietnam as an expat implies navigating into a new and unfamiliar environment and habits, making you potentially vulnerable to scammers. Whether it’s immigration or finance advice, housing scam, online traps or ...
Thanks for the Da Nang tourist service email. I'll update with any reply I might receive. Read More
Most common scams in Vietnam by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Settling in Vietnam as an expat implies navigating into a new and unfamiliar environment and habits, making you potentially vulnerable to scammers. Whether it’s immigration or finance advice, housing scam, online traps or ...
I'll try to report it using the supplied number. Thanks. - @It2VN Realise not possible as my esim is data only and I'm not recharging my italy number. If there's an email address to report to that would work. - @It2VN E-sim with what company? If ... Read More
Most common scams in Vietnam by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Settling in Vietnam as an expat implies navigating into a new and unfamiliar environment and habits, making you potentially vulnerable to scammers. Whether it’s immigration or finance advice, housing scam, online traps or ...
I'll try to report it using the supplied number. Thanks. - @It2VN Realise not possible as my esim is data only and I'm not recharging my italy number. If there's an email address to report to that would work. Read More
Most common scams in Vietnam by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Settling in Vietnam as an expat implies navigating into a new and unfamiliar environment and habits, making you potentially vulnerable to scammers. Whether it’s immigration or finance advice, housing scam, online traps or ...
Hotel on Loseby street DaNang. I don't see the need to report the hotel, unless you re saying it is one of the driver's fee sharing partners...?I was of a mind to book a grab but at that moment I had no Internet to book with.I'll try to report it ... Read More
Most common scams in Vietnam by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Settling in Vietnam as an expat implies navigating into a new and unfamiliar environment and habits, making you potentially vulnerable to scammers. Whether it’s immigration or finance advice, housing scam, online traps or ...
Good thread topic. Like to hear thoughts on this:Yesterday Arrived at Da Nang airport. Went to taxi rank in front of the terminal. Two guys in orange high vis vests with lanyard badges were guiding arrivals to taxis. I'd read online to trust three ... Read More
Importing (prescription) drugs for personal use, and.. by It2VN
Could someone advise or point me in the direction of official guidance on whether some items I would like to take with me are permitted or not for importation. I use almost nightly Delorazepam drops for sleep. Also where does ibuprofen stand?Also, ...
Could someone advise or point me in the direction of official guidance on whether some items I would like to take with me are permitted or not for importation. I use almost nightly Delorazepam drops for sleep. Also where does ibuprofen stand? Also, ... Read More
Importing (prescription) drugs for personal use, and.. by It2VN
Could someone advise or point me in the direction of official guidance on whether some items I would like to take with me are permitted or not for importation. I use almost nightly Delorazepam drops for sleep. Also where does ibuprofen stand?Also, ...
Thanks Aiden. So I hope the ibruprofen I have won't be a problem to bring . Read More
Importing (prescription) drugs for personal use, and.. by It2VN
Could someone advise or point me in the direction of official guidance on whether some items I would like to take with me are permitted or not for importation. I use almost nightly Delorazepam drops for sleep. Also where does ibuprofen stand?Also, ...
Thanks, OB. Will delve deeper then. Read More
Importing (prescription) drugs for personal use, and..
Could someone advise or point me in the direction of official guidance on whether some items I would like to take with me are permitted or not for importation. I use almost nightly Delorazepam drops for sleep. Also where does ibuprofen stand?Also, ... Read More
Is Da Nang, Vietnam The New Bali? by OceanBeach92107
Helen Zhao (formerly a reporter/producer with CNBC network in the USA) has done a very good job of covering recent developments & trends here in Đà Nẵng with her new YouTube report. https://youtu.be/AAhAbNhEOY4
Interesting video. Food for thought about an imminent visit. 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 did the application for a 3 month multiple entry visa last Friday, 18 April. I paid without a problem. My submitted photo match was 95 percent (I'd hope so since I used the same photo for my new passport two months ago!) , got the visa authorised ... 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 ...
Thanks Aiden. I see that in my recent passport photo, it's mainly neck up image anyway , the top of my sweater just being visible. 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 ...
@Aidan in HCMC Hello . Re. the evisa photo requirement stated above. On the evisa.gov.vn site it states the photo needs to be 4cm x 6cm. Can this be taken on a smartphone and adjusted for dimensions and size ? (it also states 'formal clothes': I'm ... Read More
SIM cards for non-residents? by It2VN
For previous visits of up to 15 days I've just got a form of tourist (physical) SIM card. I'm curious about what longer term visitors' solutions are if they're not officially resident and so can't obtain a regular contract. Do they resort to ...
Thanks for the feedback. I'll try the check-in receipt route first and if that proves problematic, I might as well go the monthly 5GB or similar option. Depending on how things pan out, I'll probably be looking to do visa runs or just return after ... Read More
SIM cards for non-residents?
For previous visits of up to 15 days I've just got a form of tourist (physical) SIM card. I'm curious about what longer term visitors' solutions are if they're not officially resident and so can't obtain a regular contract. Do they resort to ... Read More
Question re availability couple products by It2VN
What's the situation in Da Nang for getting melatonin over the counter? Also, can European imported (not Chinese or similar) Extra virgin Olive oil be found, and typical prices for both, if anyone knows? Thanks.
Thanks for the info. I'll try to get to grips with the apps. Read More
Question re availability couple products
What's the situation in Da Nang for getting melatonin over the counter? Also, can European imported (not Chinese or similar) Extra virgin Olive oil be found, and typical prices for both, if anyone knows? Thanks. 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 ...
Look in to RMIT who have campuses in Hanoi, HCMC, and Da Nang. The recruitment bar is higher than many but they pay well and conditions are good. Read More
Almost time for a VISA run, I am unsure. by Dannyroc3
As my visa will run out in a few weeks (wow that was fast) I am weighing the options of leave VNAnd return under a new visa.A couple of questions please-What is the going cost to use a service and since I am Near HCMC, I assume I would go there and ...
Not sure how useful this is to your situation: I watched on utube a U.S. guy do a visa run from Da Nang on an organised bus for this service. Can't remember length of visa he renewed. Around a 12 -15 hr round trip IIRC. I think the service in Da ... 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 ...
Thanks much, Aiden, for the clarifications. 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 have a couple of questions about longer stays under a tourist category. I'm thinking of heading to Da Nang to use as a semi-permanent tourist-cum-retirement base. I'm still in the process of researching. Having spent time in Hanoi and Saigon I ... Read More
LETS HAVE A LAUGH BUT NO FILTH by goodolboy
windscreen wipers https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=020InK5E99A
Did you hear about the Amish girl who was excommunicated?Too Mennonite. Read More
Best visa and accommodation for 3mths stay by It2VN
Thinking of returning under tourist status for a longer stay.Ideally I'd be looking for a short term apartment instead of hotel/airbnb type arrangement. I imagine it's possible to find such? Would like to hear input on how to do such if quite ...
Thanks again for the detailed feedback Appreciated. So it seems it would be easiest/best to just get an apartment rental on a site such as airbnb or similar, with some monthly rental discount. The serviced element isn't critical for me but obviously ... Read More
Best visa and accommodation for 3mths stay by It2VN
Thinking of returning under tourist status for a longer stay.Ideally I'd be looking for a short term apartment instead of hotel/airbnb type arrangement. I imagine it's possible to find such? Would like to hear input on how to do such if quite ...
Thanks for the feedback and advice, I'll look into the links and so on. I was thinking of combining a longer stay in S.E Asia with possibly a similar coastal Thailand location and even another country, which would be new to me at this point. Just ... Read More
Best visa and accommodation for 3mths stay by It2VN
Thinking of returning under tourist status for a longer stay.Ideally I'd be looking for a short term apartment instead of hotel/airbnb type arrangement. I imagine it's possible to find such? Would like to hear input on how to do such if quite ...
Was thinking of coastal city maybe Da Nang, or similar for accessibility to beach.. Maybe not Nha Trang as it seems to be full of Russians. Good to have the rental search tips too; though personally speaking I have no contacts in VN Read More
Best visa and accommodation for 3mths stay
Thinking of returning under tourist status for a longer stay.Ideally I'd be looking for a short term apartment instead of hotel/airbnb type arrangement. I imagine it's possible to find such? Would like to hear input on how to do such if quite ... Read More
Real cost of living on the Algarve by Jennywins
Hi all New to this forum and hoping for some guidance! We are currently living and working in Hong Kong but the plan in the next couple of years is to retire to the Algarve. The one thing we can't seem to agree on is what is a sensible budget ...
I could echo the OP's question. I know there are sites offering cost comparisons on such things as a pint of milk or a loaf of bread but I too would be interested to know what the national and local taxes are for rubbish collection etc, and the ... Read More
Portugal Bank Account by Andysuth
Hi, I'm currently based in UK, and looking to move to Portugal ASAP. What is the best way to start a bank account, and transfer money over there? A friend has suggested Estonia eResidency to start an EU based Bank account and Business, but ...
To obtain the NIF as proof of non-Portugal address could a utility bill be used with name etc on? I do all banking online and paper statements I don't have. Read More
Current NIF Requirements for UK Citizens/Brexit by Justojustin
Just wondering if any Brits have obtained a new NIF from the Camera in the last 3 or 4 months? I was hoping to stroll in there in April without too many issues, however being stuck in the UK and unable to travel now until September, any updates or ...
I'm hoping to get a NIF next month or so while we Brits are still in. I wouldn't like to take my chances post 31st December. Sounds like you're already a resident...? Read More
Moving to Vietnam in July by JohnfromCanaf01
I moving to Vietnam in July from Canada. .do I need to only buy a one way plane ticket?
Ooh they are a tease, aren't they? I was referring to the grammar of the Gov't site Read More
Moving to Vietnam in July by JohnfromCanaf01
I moving to Vietnam in July from Canada. .do I need to only buy a one way plane ticket?
I read on the chinhphu site, Highlights section, that Evisa will be issued to citizens of 80 countries from July. Italy is included. Excepting the confused grammar, I must be missing something. During my call today with VN, they advised that this ... Read More
Moving to Vietnam in July by JohnfromCanaf01
I moving to Vietnam in July from Canada. .do I need to only buy a one way plane ticket?
I spoke this morning to my future employer in VN, Advised that it's likely people entering after July 1st will have to be quarantined for 14 days (either in a Government establishment - military base hospital or similar? or a hotel at their own ... Read More
Does anyone know when to allow tourists to enter Vietnam thanks by Ollbest
Does anyone know when to allow tourists to enter Vietnam thanks
When borders open I'd be interested to hear thoughts about entering on a work permit and the likelihood of having to quarantine for 14 days. I suppose one would be subject to the same entry conditions whether tourist or worker...? Read More
Place to buy succulents in Nha Trang? by BigWal
I know about Suha Garden near Vĩnh Hải, (nice selection, by the way), but am interested if there are any other places that specialise in them, or at least have a wide selection? Thanks!
Google is your friend.Not mine. An unforgiving mistress. duckduckgo is more copacetic :) Read More
questions about living in vietnam by Wasp252
Hi Guys, I have decided after this cov 19 to move to live in vietnam. Love the country and the food( not the food) I have been reading a lot about vietnam and have questions if someone wants to help. 1) bank situation: i have been reading that you ...
The money question is interesting If I ever get to VN, my future employer will be paying 20% of salary in VND, the rest in USD. I had planned on transferring to either my Italian or my UK bank via WorldFirst. I'm sure USD can be handled by them ... Read More
New members of the Vietnam forum, introduce yourselves here - 2019 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Vietnam forum? Don't 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 ...
Hello, I'm Michael, an English teacher currently working in Italy . I have a teaching position in Hanoi from next spring. I expect I'll be posting various questions here regarding accommodation, transport, banking etc. I've visited Hanoi ... Read More