Ian Wilson
@Flip465
Australian expat in Vietnam
Forum posts
265
Contacts
11
About me
Australian
Lives in Sai Gon
Speaks Now only English - over half a century ago also - Hebrew, Yiddish, some German and French.
Registration: 10 August 2011
Quality helmets for people with large heads - where to buy by Travelfar
I have already looked in the classifieds for stores in Ben Cat, Thu Dau Mot, and Saigon without success. I know there are some because I bought my current helmet in Saigon many years ago, but I don't remember where. I need what I think would ...
I've never been happy or confident with the 'quality' - or lack there of, when it comes to motorbike helmets here in VietNam. Ended up bringing my own helmet back in with me from Oz. It's a ' SHARK EVOLINE SERIES 3 BLANK HELMET ... Read More
Quarantine in Saigon by Hooked
Good morning Y’all. I am on day 5 of myself imposed lockdown. Vn government thinks they did this to me but it was my choice to come. Things that make me smile today: Very happy that I prearranged a treadmill to rent and had it installed in ...
Normally we (VN LADY WIFE & self) live in Saigon. We managed to get a GREAT deal on the purchase of a large, new, villa. :-) First moved back here to VN way back in January of 2012. By May, was married - invested $$$$$$ in properties and ... Read More
mailing credit cards to Vietnam by dlewis516
i have 2 credit cards (receipt has not been confirmed yet) waiting for me in New Jersey. Can anyone recommend the safest way of getting them to me in Saigon without paying excessive shipping, duty, etc. I was told to be wary of ordinary postal ...
I've been sending - or taking a replacement Mastercard to my wife in Saigon - from my bank in Australia, whenever the current card has about one month left before it is due to expire. Only, of course, if I happen to not be here when the card is ... Read More
Dating in Vietnam- different types of women by VnTeacher3
I'm seeing more and more thicker/bbw type women in Vietnam these days, but few seem to be on the dating sites. I tried hitting up a clerk directly but got shot down brutally. Don't know if this is even done here. Obviously they are still ...
My 'BETTER HALF' complains bitterly if that needle on the bathroom scales hits as hit as 50kgs !!! Met her way back in 2012 - knew immediately that she was the 'perfect lady' that I'd always dreamed of meeting !!! Took a LOT of ... Read More
Medication in Vietnam by Loïc
Good morning everyone, Whether it's a simple cold or a chronic illness, medication and medicine use vary from country to country and culture to culture. When you are used to certain brands or types of drugs, being in a country like Vietnam ...
NEVER had any problems at all procuring any of the medications that I've ever needed while living in Viet Nam. Found an excellent chemist / pharmical provider on this website, way back in 2012. ONLY problem in VN, for myself, has been the cost ... Read More
An unpleasant brush with the law. by GuestPoster288
Have had a disturbing incident this morning that almost got out of hand. The electricity in my apartment was cut so, being uncomfortably hot, my wife and I went out for coffee to get some air and found a relatively clean cafe. Sitting by the ...
Well, it is THEIR country after all - we're only 'guests' here. I started here back in '67 & '68 conscripted and sent here by the army (war sux everywhere) - for various reasons,not the last of which was nightmares from ... Read More
Just for fun: Unusual cultural habits in Vietnam and around the world by Diksha
In this [b]Just for fun[/b] thread, we would like to highlight unconventional customs which make Vietnam stand out. This is a chance, at the same time, to learn about other countries equally interesting traditions. 1. Which country considers ...
Answer #5 is the stand out answer here !!! :D Read More
Homeschooling in Vietnam by Bhavna
Hello everyone, Homeschooling your children as an expat in Vietnam will definitely come with its load of challenges. Here is a special call to parents who are already homeschooling their children or who plan on doing so to share any information ...
My WONDERFUL LADY wife and I have not got kids of our own ;-( My wife is helping with the education of our niece - younger sister's daughter, in most subjects. I help out when I can with the maths side of things and English language. When I ... Read More
Marriage to a Vietnamese Woman by Guestposter822
Just interested to hear about peoples experiences married to a Vietnamese woman, more so for marriages that have lasted longer than say 3 years...
Strange - - - that's exactly what my M-i-L said - - - to stat with, after four years of refusing to even recognize the fact that I was even alive. Times and people change - now I'm her very favourite 'in-Law' - - even more favored ... Read More
Bargaining and Vietnamese culture question by WillyBaldy
I'm planning on renting a motorbike in Rach Gia and my landlord told me she had an employee who was renting a motorbike. I had my doubts about prices but I tested it, it was fine, an automatic, a bit old Nouvo bike. After the test, I asked the ...
One of the first things I brought for my now wife, was a 'as new', 3 month old, Honda AIRBLADE 125cc. For a strictly practical reason - we all know what it's like riding a motorbike during the 'wet season'. :( To make things ... Read More
New rules on extension of visa by Yinnster
I came in march from UK on a 3 months multiplevtourist entry. When that ran out i got a 3 month extension for single entry tourist. That is due to run out in 3 weeks. I've been told you can extend it 2 times but a visa company told me I ...
No idea how it works - - - then again, I have a Israeli service passport - - which never runs out ! Read More
New rules on extension of visa by Yinnster
I came in march from UK on a 3 months multiplevtourist entry. When that ran out i got a 3 month extension for single entry tourist. That is due to run out in 3 weeks. I've been told you can extend it 2 times but a visa company told me I ...
WAY back in 2012, arrived in Sai Gon in the early morning from Bangkok on 5th Jan. My then girlfriend was waiting outside at TSN for me. Took a taxi and inspected a couple of very nice, new apartments out in D7. Chose the one we both like the most ... Read More
Device privacy, trust, intrusion and the jealousy of vietnamese girls by SaigonSeamus
Hello all, 1st time poster, I'm Seamus and I've been in Vietnam about a year firstly motorbiking solo the length and breadth of the country now blissfully settled into ex-pat life in Saigon down near Phu My Hung. In the past few months I have ...
HOT DAMN !!!! Seems that I scored complete GOLD !!!! My new VN LADY WIFE seems to have only one concern - - - to ensure that I'm happy and safe all the time !!! Been together now going on over 8 -- nearly 9 years !!! Not one argument over ... Read More
Payment methods in Vietnam by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Once youre settled in Vietnam, you will need to make some basic purchases, like groceries or pay bills. Hence, it is essential to know the payment methods available in your host country. Which are the most common payment ...
About the same in '67 - '68. However not being overly fond of beer - it used to make me very punchy after the first two or three glasses. So I tended to grab several bottles of the Japanese 'Red Label 45 rice whiskey'. (black ... Read More
Payment methods in Vietnam by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Once youre settled in Vietnam, you will need to make some basic purchases, like groceries or pay bills. Hence, it is essential to know the payment methods available in your host country. Which are the most common payment ...
Well, in 2012 when I first moved back to VN, the Australian dollar was worth US$1:09 - on my then girlfriends advice we did a far bit of 'horse trading' - exchanging my savings for gold - then some of that into VND and some US dollars. That ... Read More
Divorcing in Vietnam by Diksha
Hello everyone, Reaching the decision to seek divorce can be hard. Filing the papers as an expat in Vietnam can be as taxing since a good grasp of legislations is needed and the process can prove to be tedious. Where and how do you apply for a ...
MMMM ??? :/ Or maybe not so much ! Have more than enough problems getting everything together to get married in the first place. Far too much paperwork and running around, wait for this or that. First marriage was to a non Vietnamese woman ... Read More
Getting in Early by Wadey
Ok, I’m looking to go somewhere on the coast (or open to suggestions) between say Danang and Vung Tau (or HCM) for the Tet Celebrations next year. Where would you suggest would be a great place to experience these celebrations and to join the ...
First year back in VN at TET time, back in 2012, stayed in Sai Gon alone, :/ :( :sleep The city seemed almost deserted compared to any other time of the year. Have my own motorbike so getting around was never any problem. Since then, TET with ... Read More
Domestic Air Conditioning by UKPAX
Hi There, I'm a Newby hear. Going out to Ho Chi Mihn next month for a Holiday. I've been trying to work out how they Specify there Domestic Air Conditioning Wall Mounted Indoor Units ? In my Home in the UK I would need Wall Units for the ...
Our first apartment, Phú Mỹ Hưng. D7. tp.H.C.M. had three built in air conditioning units fully installed, when we first moved in. One for each of the two bedrooms and the third one for the TV / dining room area. All worked ... Read More
Which scooter do you like most? by yamcha
I bought myself a 2013 blue Honda Lead recently mostly for its practicality, it has a wide seating area and a lot of space under it but other than that it isn't a very good ride. I really wanted a Yamaha Grande (love the way it looks) but ...
Consider yourself lucky !!! The order from my 'BETTER HALf' is that I'm too old to ride a motorbike around Sai Gon ! She sold my bike within 24 hours of me heading back to Oz ! (She always hated it) So when the 'quacks' ... Read More
Which scooter do you like most? by yamcha
I bought myself a 2013 blue Honda Lead recently mostly for its practicality, it has a wide seating area and a lot of space under it but other than that it isn't a very good ride. I really wanted a Yamaha Grande (love the way it looks) but ...
Hi THIGV, :) Seems quite a few things in our lives are in common ! One of the main differences is that after trying the bus trip from Sai Gon to Ben Tri, just the one time, swore that I'll never try that again ! Even my 'BETTER ... Read More
Which scooter do you like most? by yamcha
I bought myself a 2013 blue Honda Lead recently mostly for its practicality, it has a wide seating area and a lot of space under it but other than that it isn't a very good ride. I really wanted a Yamaha Grande (love the way it looks) but ...
THANKS !!!! :) It's not so much my wallet I'm worried about as it is the crazy truck / bus drivers - and those bloody tri-wheelers things, charging around Sai Gon, they're even worse than the trucks !!! :o WORST of all is trying ... Read More
Which scooter do you like most? by yamcha
I bought myself a 2013 blue Honda Lead recently mostly for its practicality, it has a wide seating area and a lot of space under it but other than that it isn't a very good ride. I really wanted a Yamaha Grande (love the way it looks) but ...
My wife has a Honda AirBlade, couple of years old now, but can't fault the Honda's performance or its total reliability. I used to ride a nice, big, Honda V-twin cruiser - that she HATED !!! Too big, Too loud, Too fuel greedy. It did prove ... Read More
Is A Laptop PC or Mac Necessary in Vietnam? by OceanBeach92107
I am virtually retired here, but I welcome replies from all: remote workers, teachers, those employed in Vietnam, businesspersons, even digital nomads and backpackers. I've been lugging my HP Envy 17" laptop around the country, mostly ...
Well, personally I've found Windows 10 to be a huge pain in the butt at times !!! With it's 'light weight' apps and other incomplete. compared to the original programmed software. Read More
Talking to a Viet girl in HCMC. Need some clarity. by Nielsen Flute
Hello everyone. I need some advice on how to proceed with this girl I've been talking to for a while. We've been talking to each other for a few years now on and off through Skype/Viber. By chance I was in Saigon for work in 2015 and we ...
Well - these days, I don't drink, smoke and the only drugs I ever use are the ones the doctors perscribe for me. That's the usual anti-malaria tables plus the others for cancer. Had to have my prostrate removed a little over one and a half ... Read More
What is life like during Tet? by Jim-Minh
This will be my first experience with life during Tet. How should I prepare? What will be in short supply or unavailable? Can you post examples of what you've learned the hard way? How do you cope? What are the upsides?
Today being first of Feb. 2019 - we've just finished all our TET shopping and are leaving Sai Gon to travel down to Ben Tre tomorrow - expect to be at the 'in-laws' by tomorrow about midday. STILL trying to tell 'MY BETTER ... Read More
Talking to a Viet girl in HCMC. Need some clarity. by Nielsen Flute
Hello everyone. I need some advice on how to proceed with this girl I've been talking to for a while. We've been talking to each other for a few years now on and off through Skype/Viber. By chance I was in Saigon for work in 2015 and we ...
Pretty well agree with what 'GuidoVN' said [ I decided that there was no really a whole lot back in the 'old country' for me - so I moved to Viet Nam. The main problem for me is the cost of private medical treatment. It's ... Read More
What is life like during Tet? by Jim-Minh
This will be my first experience with life during Tet. How should I prepare? What will be in short supply or unavailable? Can you post examples of what you've learned the hard way? How do you cope? What are the upsides?
Consider how lucky you are !!! :cool: In other countries, we can't even get our hands on new US $2 bills at all !!! :sosad: Most of the time we are really pushing to even get any condition US $2 bill at all. :mad: And, of course by ... Read More
What is life like during Tet? by Jim-Minh
This will be my first experience with life during Tet. How should I prepare? What will be in short supply or unavailable? Can you post examples of what you've learned the hard way? How do you cope? What are the upsides?
I TAKE M-in-L and Grand Parents, with wife, to pagodas and to temple first thing. then - LUCKY MONEY !!!! NEW, UNUSED BANK NOTES (US DOLLARS - BUT MAYBE NOT SO LEGAL THESE DAYS) 'LUCKY MONEY IN RED ENVELOPES - GIVEN TO GRAND PARENT ... Read More
What is life like during Tet? by Jim-Minh
This will be my first experience with life during Tet. How should I prepare? What will be in short supply or unavailable? Can you post examples of what you've learned the hard way? How do you cope? What are the upsides?
We're out of Sai Gon for TET !!! Way back, spent my first TET, in Sai Gon, by myself. NEVER seen the city roads get so quiet - sometimes almost traffic free !!! My 'Better Half' left me with notes for things I might want, such as ... Read More
Talking to a Viet girl in HCMC. Need some clarity. by Nielsen Flute
Hello everyone. I need some advice on how to proceed with this girl I've been talking to for a while. We've been talking to each other for a few years now on and off through Skype/Viber. By chance I was in Saigon for work in 2015 and we ...
Actually - no, haven't heard anything about what would happen in a case like that. :/ BUT, if the wayward woman's family, was anything like my 'in-laws' and their entire extended family - I imagine the outcome would be far less ... Read More
Talking to a Viet girl in HCMC. Need some clarity. by Nielsen Flute
Hello everyone. I need some advice on how to proceed with this girl I've been talking to for a while. We've been talking to each other for a few years now on and off through Skype/Viber. By chance I was in Saigon for work in 2015 and we ...
Will you be wearing the paper bag to the interview?I'd rather not but some of the customers may insist on it. :sosad: :DTo hell with the paper bag idea - even if I wasn't totally in love with my 'BETTER HALF' - - - I'd be far ... Read More
Talking to a Viet girl in HCMC. Need some clarity. by Nielsen Flute
Hello everyone. I need some advice on how to proceed with this girl I've been talking to for a while. We've been talking to each other for a few years now on and off through Skype/Viber. By chance I was in Saigon for work in 2015 and we ...
vndreamer - sort of interesting that those stats you quoted are from the USA study. At least I find it interesting, as a 'westerner' who's been put through the 'western' court system - ie - the woman gets everything and the ... Read More
Talking to a Viet girl in HCMC. Need some clarity. by Nielsen Flute
Hello everyone. I need some advice on how to proceed with this girl I've been talking to for a while. We've been talking to each other for a few years now on and off through Skype/Viber. By chance I was in Saigon for work in 2015 and we ...
THANK YOU VERY MUCH ! :top: For myself, having the trust and love of such a totally wonderful wife has made everything well worth while !!! My only 'complaint', as such, is that now she's decided to improve herself and is doing ... Read More
Talking to a Viet girl in HCMC. Need some clarity. by Nielsen Flute
Hello everyone. I need some advice on how to proceed with this girl I've been talking to for a while. We've been talking to each other for a few years now on and off through Skype/Viber. By chance I was in Saigon for work in 2015 and we ...
It's sort of a case by case thing that each time, each of you must work out for yourselves. Guess I was extremely lucky - met my now wife, on an open 'chat forum' that had nothing to do with Viet Nam, romances, dating or anything else ... Read More
Talking to a Viet girl in HCMC. Need some clarity. by Nielsen Flute
Hello everyone. I need some advice on how to proceed with this girl I've been talking to for a while. We've been talking to each other for a few years now on and off through Skype/Viber. By chance I was in Saigon for work in 2015 and we ...
You really think that ???? :/ Hell !!!!! i honestly can't think of even one VN guy going to the same gym that I use daily, who hasn't boasted at one time or another, about the 'other' woman he's picked up and is using ... Read More
Talking to a Viet girl in HCMC. Need some clarity. by Nielsen Flute
Hello everyone. I need some advice on how to proceed with this girl I've been talking to for a while. We've been talking to each other for a few years now on and off through Skype/Viber. By chance I was in Saigon for work in 2015 and we ...
'gedinite69' You're very welcome. THANK YOU for the compliment, English is not my 'first' language. At home while growing up we spoke a mixture of Yiddish, English, Hebrew with a bit of the native New Zealand Maori language - ... Read More
Talking to a Viet girl in HCMC. Need some clarity. by Nielsen Flute
Hello everyone. I need some advice on how to proceed with this girl I've been talking to for a while. We've been talking to each other for a few years now on and off through Skype/Viber. By chance I was in Saigon for work in 2015 and we ...
Met my now ' BETTER HALF' by pure chance online in an open forum chat room. There was just something about her - still don't know why, but i managed to get her online address - emailed her - gave her a few details about ugly, old, ... Read More
Device privacy, trust, intrusion and the jealousy of vietnamese girls by SaigonSeamus
Hello all, 1st time poster, I'm Seamus and I've been in Vietnam about a year firstly motorbiking solo the length and breadth of the country now blissfully settled into ex-pat life in Saigon down near Phu My Hung. In the past few months I have ...
It's been several years since I posted anything here. :) BUT, despite everything that could have gone wrong between two people from such vastly different backgrounds, it's now been going on 7 years plus since I met my VERY SWEET and ... Read More
Where to find these "condom shops"? by kend0g187
I've heard about these "condom shops" but have never seen one. I even walked down a street that was supposed to have them. How can I find one? Thanks.
HAA-HAA-HAA !!! ( sorry ) Best solution is to find yourself a truly wonderful VN LADY. Win over her and most importantly, her family (mother) then legally while still in Viet Nam, marry her !!! End of your problems !!! My 'BETTER ... Read More
Process for Vietnamese to obtain passport by Wxx3
I'm curious as the the process and difficulty for a Vietnamese citizen to get a passport. This would be to enable them to travel and return, but eventually after 4+ years to leave for longer periods of time. Appreciate hearing your thoughts ...
My wife didn't have any problems at all getting her visa to travel to Australia for a holiday. She put in a couple of references showing that she owns her own business in Sai Gon, also in partnership with one of her sisters in her sisters family ... Read More
Living with Vietnamese girlfriend....what problems may I encounter? by divedog49
I am thinking of living with my Vietnamese girlfriend for one year in the Hoi an area . I am American and she is a citizen of Vietnam. Will it be problematic to live together there ? I would appreciate any advice.
:) Pretty well the same thing here - now that the family has accepted us together, and the other people around are used to seeing us together - there is no problems at all. No cap - but sometimes a T-shirt indicating eithe the Australian army or ... Read More
Vietnamese International Driving Licence by drybones
Hi, I believe that it is now possible to get a licence online. I have searched the internet to try to download the appropriate documents but so far in vain. Does anyone know which site to go to for these forms?
A few hundred dollars (US) ???????? That company is no friend of yours !!! I've held an A2 VN driver's licence since January 2013, and an A1 VN driver's licence for one year before that. The original A1 VN licencing process was done at - ... Read More
Motorbike hit from behind. by Flip465
Just over two weeks ago, Friday evening, my 'Better Half, was on her way home from work. She stopped at an intersection, red light, with many other motorbikes. She was hit from behind by a guy on a Yamaha Nouvo bike - registration number ...
Hi Wald0, thanks for the reply. That's only one of the problems we've run into so far. :( Pretty sure we'll be waiting some time to even get an answer from the traffic police boss of D1 in Sai Gon. It's the ... Read More
Motorbike hit from behind. by Flip465
Just over two weeks ago, Friday evening, my 'Better Half, was on her way home from work. She stopped at an intersection, red light, with many other motorbikes. She was hit from behind by a guy on a Yamaha Nouvo bike - registration number ...
THANK YOU, ralphnhatrang, :) at the moment she's at her sister's place looking after our niece while her sister is at work tonight. I'll be sure to pass on everything you said in your reply. :top: Sister lives out in Binh Thanh ... Read More
Motorbike hit from behind.
Just over two weeks ago, Friday evening, my 'Better Half, was on her way home from work. She stopped at an intersection, red light, with many other motorbikes. She was hit from behind by a guy on a Yamaha Nouvo bike - registration number ... Read More
Divorce in Vietnam by harry110
Hello, My wife and I married in Vietnam in 2006 but we never live together because she wants to live in Vietnam only so, I came to visit her every year in Vietnam but at in the end our married is doesn't work any more, the last time we met ...
Harry, you're Dutch, living in Oz for a while, but are right now back in Europe, is that correct ? If so, it appears you're thinking of divorce laws like they are in Oz where the man gets totally ripped off for just about every cent he has ... Read More
1 year Visa by suerte007
Hello Vietnamese expat I like to travel to Vietnam for about 1 year help me with visa idea thank you
Hi suerte007, :) Assuming you're traveling to Viet Nam on the usual tourist visa it's a 3 month maximum time limit,single or multiple entry / exit visa. You should have no problem at all getting the visa re-newed twice more, 90 days each ... Read More
Obtaining Permanent Residency in Brasil - USA Citizen by mewnyc
Hello, I am in the process of obtaining permanent residency in Brazil through marriage to a Brazilian National. I have a couple of questions that I thought I would ask the community. 1) I received my Protocol document from the Federal Police. ...
:/ Not wishing to appearing to be antisocial - but aren't you in the wrong expat's blog site ? Wrong part of the world even ? :unsure Brazil ? Surely that's still part of the South American Continent somewhere ? Or has it ... Read More
Marital ransom..... Is it normal in VN? by Vagabondone
Just curious if it is common practice in Vietnam if when there is marital discourse that ransom is demanded as a condition of reconciliation? Have a friend who got sideways with his wife. She booted him to the curb. He is not allowed to return until ...
All this demanding gifts and /or money seems very weird to me. Or maybe I just got REALLY lucky. My wife consistently refuses to take any money from me, except for some of household running costs. Any gifts for her and I'm in BIG trouble ... Read More
do one need to show a return ticket entering Vietnam? by AndrewDao
Hi guys, Does anyone know if they demand you to show a return ticket when you arrive in Vietnam? Thanks and happy holidays everyone. /Andrew
In the past I've found flying out from Australia to Viet Nam and requiring a flexible return date ticket, about the only airline doing this, and for an extra fee of course, is Thai Airways. Economy Class, Flexible flight, Mileage accrual, Valid ... Read More
Over 7000 views by bluenz
Over 7000 views in less than a month, obviously not many people were offended by the Joke thread????
EASY ! The current generation's kids and grand kids ! :lol: Side benefit - full nation employment. :top: Read More
Over 7000 views by bluenz
Over 7000 views in less than a month, obviously not many people were offended by the Joke thread????
Anyone who hasn't got a good, open sense of humor should - # 1 give away or sell all their computers, iPads, smart phones and anything else that allows them access to the internet. :dumbom: # 2 be medicated 24 /7 and never allowed out ... Read More
Expat co-owning a house in Vietnam with wife by VungTauDon
My wife (Vietnamese) and I are saving to buy a house and I am wondering if it is possible to be listed in the housebook as a co-owner or will I always have to register with the police like a tourist. I don't register with them now as my landlord ...
Trust a lawyer ??? :lol: Guarantee for the right price, (you pay cash in advance) you could find a VN lawyer who arrange to sell you either or both : - THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF THE SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF VIETNAM. Office of the National ... Read More
living on a sailing boat in vietnam. boatimport and live aboard legal? by fuzzzl
Hello, I am Dan, a german vagabond. I just arrived in Vietnam 3 days ago, but I am already totally in love with this country and its people. I own a sailingboat which is currently waiting for me in Cairns (Australia). I was planing to do a world ...
Which is exactly why I let Uyen do all the talking to officials at every level. :D Mind you, the card my friend and neighbour gave me, with the hand written note on the back, tends to get a hell of a lot of respect from the Cong An at every ... Read More
living on a sailing boat in vietnam. boatimport and live aboard legal? by fuzzzl
Hello, I am Dan, a german vagabond. I just arrived in Vietnam 3 days ago, but I am already totally in love with this country and its people. I own a sailingboat which is currently waiting for me in Cairns (Australia). I was planing to do a world ...
Dan, the German officials most probably won't even mention 'coffee money' (or 'beer money') to you. Maybe just a very quiet warning of how things work with regards to 'donated monies'. Officials have an obligation to be ... Read More
living on a sailing boat in vietnam. boatimport and live aboard legal? by fuzzzl
Hello, I am Dan, a german vagabond. I just arrived in Vietnam 3 days ago, but I am already totally in love with this country and its people. I own a sailingboat which is currently waiting for me in Cairns (Australia). I was planing to do a world ...
Dan, it's not a matter of being a 'communist state' or even a 'one party state'. It's just the way everything here in Viet Nam is run, has been run in the pass, and probably will continue to run in the foreseeable ... Read More
living on a sailing boat in vietnam. boatimport and live aboard legal? by fuzzzl
Hello, I am Dan, a german vagabond. I just arrived in Vietnam 3 days ago, but I am already totally in love with this country and its people. I own a sailingboat which is currently waiting for me in Cairns (Australia). I was planing to do a world ...
Don't forget to hang a large red flag with a big golden star in the middle of it from your masthead first. :top: How are you at fishing - and dodging other boats ? (a steel hulled boat would be a huge advantage ! ;) The local fishermen ... Read More
why is it difficult for foriegner to assimilate into VN culture by MarkinNam
It is becoming more and more apparent that when people move from thier home country, they just want to change the locals to be just like what they left behind (for what reason?) are we all so self absorbed that we can't enjoy the break ...
Won't work. Not on the older generations anyway. Don't know if it's from old habits, laziness or just plain ignorance. Our first apartment in D7, had two large rubbish bins is a room off the elevator lobby on every floor, in every ... Read More
why is it difficult for foriegner to assimilate into VN culture by MarkinNam
It is becoming more and more apparent that when people move from thier home country, they just want to change the locals to be just like what they left behind (for what reason?) are we all so self absorbed that we can't enjoy the break ...
NO ! # 100 - - - if he behaves himself. ( my wife says, and from what I heard in the change rooms at the gym, VN husband's all play up behind their wives backs. She says none of them can be trusted ! :( ) Not being VN was one reason she ... Read More
why is it difficult for foriegner to assimilate into VN culture by MarkinNam
It is becoming more and more apparent that when people move from thier home country, they just want to change the locals to be just like what they left behind (for what reason?) are we all so self absorbed that we can't enjoy the break ...
Hope you where able to get a nice, warming, bottle of her favorite brew delivered to her for her birthday. :top: Lived in Wellington for a year when I was 3, then seven years in Auckland. Once visited the South Island for a couple of weeks ... Read More
why is it difficult for foriegner to assimilate into VN culture by MarkinNam
It is becoming more and more apparent that when people move from thier home country, they just want to change the locals to be just like what they left behind (for what reason?) are we all so self absorbed that we can't enjoy the break ...
Gave up trying to work out all the government rules and regulations years ago. They seem to change from office to office location and month to month anyway. :/ Easiest way out - simply gave one of my bank account cards and Mastercard to my wife ... Read More
why is it difficult for foriegner to assimilate into VN culture by MarkinNam
It is becoming more and more apparent that when people move from thier home country, they just want to change the locals to be just like what they left behind (for what reason?) are we all so self absorbed that we can't enjoy the break ...
Gave up trying to work out all the government rules and regulations years ago. They seem to change from office to office location and month to month anyway. :/ Easiest way out - simply gave one of my bank account cards and Mastercard to my wife ... Read More
what is true love with Vietnamese girl? by nnthuy154
I incidently read a story about a British man maried with a dirty Vietnamese girl. I fell very ashamed because I am Vietnamese too. You should agree that you may meet the good ones or the bad ones in every country, but especially the ones origined ...
When you get hurt this way - the only thing you can do is pick yourself up - get your head working properly again - LEARN from what happened and get on with your life. It certainly doesn't mean that you should give up on ever finding TRUE LOVE ... Read More
what is true love with Vietnamese girl? by nnthuy154
I incidently read a story about a British man maried with a dirty Vietnamese girl. I fell very ashamed because I am Vietnamese too. You should agree that you may meet the good ones or the bad ones in every country, but especially the ones origined ...
OK - I'm an expat. Married to a truly wonderful Vietnamese lady for going on 5, nearly 6 years now. We live in Sai Gon and everything (besides today's weather !) works out very well. I have to travel back the my old country every so ... Read More
why is it difficult for foriegner to assimilate into VN culture by MarkinNam
It is becoming more and more apparent that when people move from thier home country, they just want to change the locals to be just like what they left behind (for what reason?) are we all so self absorbed that we can't enjoy the break ...
There's nothing wrong with Monty Python ! :lol: The world would most probably be a much happier place to live if everyone had a bit of the Monty Python way of looking at life. :top: And before you ask, - YES, I've got the full DVD ... Read More
why is it difficult for foriegner to assimilate into VN culture by MarkinNam
It is becoming more and more apparent that when people move from thier home country, they just want to change the locals to be just like what they left behind (for what reason?) are we all so self absorbed that we can't enjoy the break ...
Happy8888, yes - flees = (fleas) Mental ones, gives them an 'itch' they can't scratch so they whinge and complain, then, they finally p*ss off or flee. ( No great lost to Viet Nam anyway :P ) So it should have been be ... Read More
Photography group by Sarah Ly
Hi everyone, Its Sarah. Do you know any group out there that like to go to nice places around HCM to take pictures? I love taking photograph but my picture quality is not so professional Please text me if anyone are interested Thanks Sarah
Hi Paul, that particular shop you're looking for is - Nguyenkim Address: 63-65-67 Tran Hung Dao Street, Cau Ong Lanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City Phone: (08) 38,211,211 Fax: (08) 38,210,818 - Email: info@trade.nguyenkim.com. One of ... Read More
what is true love with Vietnamese girl? by nnthuy154
I incidently read a story about a British man maried with a dirty Vietnamese girl. I fell very ashamed because I am Vietnamese too. You should agree that you may meet the good ones or the bad ones in every country, but especially the ones origined ...
It would appear the moderators took his advice - :top: To quote - " Moderators, if you see this as "offensive generalizations" then delete my post (and account) but don't insult my intelligence by responding to candid, ... Read More
Is there a love between a foreign older man and a vietnamese girl by wind1989
I am 25 years old and I graduated and I had a job in there. I met an older man 55 years old in UK in the foreign forum. When I meet him in the first time,he is very kind with me because he help me improve the English skill and I do not pay anything ...
Well 'subhobratat', - I, for one, would have to respectfully disagree completely with your comment. There are far too many older 'white' males who see young Asian women as being in the position of needing to be grateful to being 'rescued' from ... Read More
paypal by musicman99
Hi , Anyone knows where i can buy a paypal voucher in ho chi minh city? I am currently living in Tay ninh
Hi 'musicman99' Firstly, you need to obtain for yourself a credit or debit card from your own bank. Paypal being a US based company, Corporate H.Q. in San Jose and it's Operations Center in Omaha, Mastercard or Visacard seems to be the preferred, ... Read More
Saigon is too hot these days by Viet teacher
I have my own business, so I need to hang out the streets all time but now really be lazy n be headache with this f*** sunshine these days :huh: :mad: Anyone have the same trouble?? yelling here to let me know I'm not the only one :sosad:
:lol: :lol: :lol: That's because you're real name is Chris Fox - and as usual, you're using another fake I.D. Once again you've been caught out and BANNED ! Congratulations to the monitors for getting rid of him (yet again) :top: As ... Read More
Device privacy, trust, intrusion and the jealousy of vietnamese girls by SaigonSeamus
Hello all, 1st time poster, I'm Seamus and I've been in Vietnam about a year firstly motorbiking solo the length and breadth of the country now blissfully settled into ex-pat life in Saigon down near Phu My Hung. In the past few months I have ...
trang _shahir, your English is just fine and easy to understand. :) "it's different culture. " So what ? It's how much two people love, trust and understand each other more than anything else - ACCEPTANCE. (I'm still trying to learn more ... Read More
Buying a new motorbike by I do believe
I've been really happy with my Honda PCX for the last couple of years but want to get the latest greatest. Unfortunately they stopped manufacturing this model and its replacement is not getting good reviews. Anybody have any suggestions as to a ...
colinoscapee, Several years ago, my wife, Vietnamese, 1.6m tall and complaining if she weighs 49 - 50kgs wringing wet, had a Sym 'Elizabeth' - different bike/scooter to the 'Shark' I know - she HATED it ! :mad: Always breaking down, electrics ... Read More
Yamaha, Honda, or Suzuki and Brake Types? by mtgmike
Hello 1) Between these, what would you recommend? Yamaha Taurus (drum brake) 15,990,000 / (disc brake) 16,990,000 Sirius (drum brake) 18,100,000 VND / (disc brake) 19,100,000 VND Sirius RC 21,100,000 VND Sirius RC FI 22.990.000VND Honda Wave ...
More than 4 decades of riding bikes of all sizes, in all different types of conditions, in quite a few countries helps a lot. :idontagree: First road bike, a 1958 ex police BSA 650 with drum brakes. MIGHT just stop in about 60 -70m from 60kph - ... Read More
Yamaha, Honda, or Suzuki and Brake Types? by mtgmike
Hello 1) Between these, what would you recommend? Yamaha Taurus (drum brake) 15,990,000 / (disc brake) 16,990,000 Sirius (drum brake) 18,100,000 VND / (disc brake) 19,100,000 VND Sirius RC 21,100,000 VND Sirius RC FI 22.990.000VND Honda Wave ...
Agreed ! Honda is more popular and retains it's resale value better. (if you don't manage to 'bend' it) A front disc is much better ! Easy, cheap to work on, and a LOT more effective than a drum brake. :idontagree: Another NOT so subtle point ... Read More
Why are the speed limits so low in Vietnam? by I do believe
I already know some answers to my question but would be interested to hear others' views and experiences with the rules here and police. When I first came to Vietnam I was amused that the biggest bikes commonly available were 125 or 135; nowadays ...
Hi All, :) In all seriousness, I for one would hate to see the smaller scooter types of bikes on ANY high speed (100kph or plus) roadway or highway. NOT because of the lack of rider ability or experience of long distance, high speed riding of ... Read More
Why are the speed limits so low in Vietnam? by I do believe
I already know some answers to my question but would be interested to hear others' views and experiences with the rules here and police. When I first came to Vietnam I was amused that the biggest bikes commonly available were 125 or 135; nowadays ...
:lol: :lol: :lol: BEFORE you give them any copies of my comments, you'd better spend some time while them explaining the difference between JOKING - and sarcasm ;) ESPECIALLY what a twisted sense of humor some expat Aussie have. :joking: ... Read More
Why are the speed limits so low in Vietnam? by I do believe
I already know some answers to my question but would be interested to hear others' views and experiences with the rules here and police. When I first came to Vietnam I was amused that the biggest bikes commonly available were 125 or 135; nowadays ...
The lower speed limits are to help everyone out. All the different speed limits make it very easy to understand :top: Simply put, the bigger, heavier and more potentually more dangerous a vehicle is, the higher it's legal speed limit. Vietnamese ... Read More
Fake Alcohol in Saigon by missmae
Were you ever served fake alcohol in Saigon or Vietnam? I had a Mojito and a Pina Colada at a live music bar in D1 and felt like crap the next days. My body reacted heavily to the alcohol. I use to have neurodermatitis and it breaked out last time ...
Nothing like a bit of methanol instead of alcohol in your drink to make you seriously think about giving up the booze forever. :cool: (IF you survive that is ! :blink: ) The number of total IDIOT Australians who go to Bali, then go ... Read More
Sending gifts to a friend in Vietnam.... by Barber368
Hey all, I am looking at sending some gifts to a friend in Vietnam for her birthday in October. I have been trying to find out what is permissable to be sent nto Vietnam. I know the obvious things are not...like weapons, drugs and alcohol.....i was ...
Hi Barber 368, :) don't know if he import laws have been changed or modified in any way, BUT about 4 years ago I tried sending my g/f, now my wife, a package of cosmetics from Australia to VN via DHL Couriers. The package contained various 'Dr. ... Read More
Buying a new motorbike by I do believe
I've been really happy with my Honda PCX for the last couple of years but want to get the latest greatest. Unfortunately they stopped manufacturing this model and its replacement is not getting good reviews. Anybody have any suggestions as to a ...
My VN wife has a Honda Air Blade 125, last years model. For her it's a great, perfect sized, totally reliable bike. :top: I make her take it to the Honda Dealers shop for regular servicing - a lot of VN don't do this, just fill with petrol and ... Read More
Reliable Leasing Agency by Ozbear
Hi all, Can anyone recommend a reliable Real Estate agent in Ho Chi Minh City that will actually help find an apartment to rent? Have been trying to get information from 3 that have listings on Craig's List and their websites and it is kind of like ...
Hi Ozbear, it's exactly as 'born2share' says - worse if you're a non-Vietnamese expat with no-one to help you out. It's not the sort of place you're looking for but just as an example of what you can get with time, patience and someone Vietnamese ... Read More
How safe it is on a late night? by Dannytan
Hi All, Last night after dinner and a cafe at HCMC center near Notre Dame church, decided to take a walk back to NTMK Dakao ward. I am thinking is it safe to walk on the street at about say 11.30 at night? Safe in the sense of robbery, snatch ...
Hi again Danny, I was living in Sai Gon for about 3 or 4 weeks before I even saw a gun of any sort. A few holsters on the belts of some of the Cong An - but never a naked gun of any sort. One afternoon we (VN wife and self) where at a fairly ... Read More
How safe it is on a late night? by Dannytan
Hi All, Last night after dinner and a cafe at HCMC center near Notre Dame church, decided to take a walk back to NTMK Dakao ward. I am thinking is it safe to walk on the street at about say 11.30 at night? Safe in the sense of robbery, snatch ...
We've been out walking around places like Notre Dame, along Han Thuyen, through the parks and along the pathways, to Reunification Palace. Other places like Turtle Lake, Cho Ben Thanh markets, at all hours of the day and night. :) Sometimes my ... Read More
Arriving hcmc 14.12 by hotpot
I plan to stay in saigon a while , so if anybody wants to hangout with a laid-back guy let me know. You can show me aruond town, We can go coffe or go eat dog or snake, whatever im up with everything. Im also gonna visit nhatrang and stay there, ...
susu83, :) :o "drink the beating snake heart ?" NO !!! Not with or without alcohol - - - YUKKKKKKKKKK ! :( Read More
Arriving hcmc 14.12 by hotpot
I plan to stay in saigon a while , so if anybody wants to hangout with a laid-back guy let me know. You can show me aruond town, We can go coffe or go eat dog or snake, whatever im up with everything. Im also gonna visit nhatrang and stay there, ...
susu83 - agree with you completely about dogs - however, grilled snake, preferably python, is delicious ! :D Read More
new Iphone 5s or 5c by ksvane
anyone knows anyone who can supply the new iphones? heard that they have hit the market here already. by market, obviously, its the black market. /Svane
ChrisFox - seems the quality of customer service by Apple in the USA and Australia are about 180 degrees in difference ! I was NOT joking or exaggerating the amount of BS and time wasting I had to put up with. Early last year I was looking for an ... Read More
new Iphone 5s or 5c by ksvane
anyone knows anyone who can supply the new iphones? heard that they have hit the market here already. by market, obviously, its the black market. /Svane
Don't know what you're all complaining about the price of an Apple iPhone 5s in VN. :| I just brought one for my grand-daughter back in Australia two weeks ago. Stupid pr**ks at the Apple Shop wanted me to make an appointment to come in and ... Read More
Does anyone know about the new motorcycle laws about owning above 175c by VungTauDon
http://www.thanhniennews.com/index/pages/20131203-harley-davidson-opens-first-vietnam-outlet.aspx Read about it in this press release on the new Harley Davidson shop opening up.
Don - somehow I don't think that guy is what you'd classify as your 'average' motorcycle rider ! :cool: Read More
Does anyone know about the new motorcycle laws about owning above 175c by VungTauDon
http://www.thanhniennews.com/index/pages/20131203-harley-davidson-opens-first-vietnam-outlet.aspx Read about it in this press release on the new Harley Davidson shop opening up.
ERRRR ????? Been drinking too much, too long and have totally fried all the logic centers your brain ? :lol: Read More
Does anyone know about the new motorcycle laws about owning above 175c by VungTauDon
http://www.thanhniennews.com/index/pages/20131203-harley-davidson-opens-first-vietnam-outlet.aspx Read about it in this press release on the new Harley Davidson shop opening up.
Here you go 'Wild_1' :D 2014 model H-D's - 750cc & I'm pretty sure large engine capacity beasts as well. Saw a photo of a full sized liquid cooled 1240cc fully decked out tourer on-line somewhere a few days ago. Can you imagine even trying to get ... Read More
Visa extension experience in HCMC by danwalker014
i just had my 3 month visa extended. I traveled from Buon ma thuot and visited a number of places for the service. I used Cong Ty golden time travel 230 De Tham st. I drop my PP off at 9 am on 22-11 and was given a receipt that indicated pickup on ...
danwalker014 - last time I ever had to worry about a visa, enjoying life too much and forgot about it until only having 3 days left :rolleyes: :cool: - after original and 2 more 3 month extensions already, my VN wife took my passport to a travel ... Read More
Malaria by machote
Hello, Is there malaria in Vietnam and if yes, in which part? Do I need to bring my mosquito net? Frank
When I first arrived in Sai Gon asked about anti-malaria medication and was told by my local chemist in D7 (and others) that there was no malaria here. :) All the local Vietnamese grew completely immune to it before they reached puberty ! ... Read More
2013 Honda Sh 150 Vietnamese Made? by bnvmri943
Good day! I m currently in the mist of looking for Honda Sh150 the imported Sh150 cost around USD30000 Its too much to pay for scooter. the same model cost USD4500 in the States. So I kept my options to the locally made. To be honest both are ...
:lol: SAY WHAT ??? :oFlip, I assume you know I was joking about that. The incident occurred in front of the wet market on Tan My street in Q7. There were people everywhere, and everyone saw it was his fault. That's probably the only reason he didn't ... Read More
Signs to show marriage by Sploke77
In most Western and developed countries, when a girl gets married, she wears a ring on her finger to show her current 'attached' state. Is this the same practice in Vietnam? Or are 'modern' girls deviating?
My sister-in-law has been married for about 9 years, she doesn't now, and as far as I know, has never worn a wedding ring. My wife wears engagement and wedding rings but usually takes the engagement ring off before going outside. The wedding ring ... Read More
2013 Honda Sh 150 Vietnamese Made? by bnvmri943
Good day! I m currently in the mist of looking for Honda Sh150 the imported Sh150 cost around USD30000 Its too much to pay for scooter. the same model cost USD4500 in the States. So I kept my options to the locally made. To be honest both are ...
Fortunately, I wasn't hurt, and of course the guy just sat there, looking at me. When I jumped up and confronted him about being a flaming idiot, (I'm sure he understood none of my expletives) he drove off. (Ohhh...maybe he was waiting to see if I ... Read More
Which shoes is better? by hwanghuydo
Anybody give an advice!! I dont know much about shoes brand and found that have Vans and Converse brand in Vietnam, with the same cost which shoes is more durable? I plan to pay $50 $60 for shoes.
Wearing flip flops will make your feet dry and crusty. :P;) Not when you shower and change your clothes about three times a day and wear the usual cotton socks with your sandals. :cool: Sai Gon - remember ? Just a little bit 'warm' and somewhat ... Read More
Which shoes is better? by hwanghuydo
Anybody give an advice!! I dont know much about shoes brand and found that have Vans and Converse brand in Vietnam, with the same cost which shoes is more durable? I plan to pay $50 $60 for shoes.
Huh? My father wears a size 13 US, he's 6'4. Sorry, I didn't get the brave little girl part. :lol: Wanna elaborate? :lol:Hi MIA2013, :) you're a regular 'spitfire' to some of Howie postings/answers aren't you ? :lol: :lol: :lol: That's meant as a ... Read More