Dr. G
Australian expat in Vietnam
Forum posts
130
Contacts
4
About me
Australian
Lives in Saigon
Registration: 28 June 2013
Opening a Language Centre In Vietnam by GuestPoster229
Hello all, I searched the forum and found some information about starting a business, but nothing specifically about foreigners opening a language centre. Does anyone have any experience or information about this or can direct me to the right ...
This conversation is going nowhere, so no more. Read More
Opening a Language Centre In Vietnam by GuestPoster229
Hello all, I searched the forum and found some information about starting a business, but nothing specifically about foreigners opening a language centre. Does anyone have any experience or information about this or can direct me to the right ...
Whomever MOE is that you are referring to did not post your comment - you did; therefore my comments are specifically directed to you. Read More
Opening a Language Centre In Vietnam by GuestPoster229
Hello all, I searched the forum and found some information about starting a business, but nothing specifically about foreigners opening a language centre. Does anyone have any experience or information about this or can direct me to the right ...
You need to develop proper classroom management skills. What thoughts you are presenting here for public display are most inappropriate teaching standards for any teacher and any education system in any country throughout the world. It is not for ... Read More
Opening a Language Centre In Vietnam by GuestPoster229
Hello all, I searched the forum and found some information about starting a business, but nothing specifically about foreigners opening a language centre. Does anyone have any experience or information about this or can direct me to the right ...
??????? Please elaborate further and, as well, how yoyr comment is associated with my feedback. Read More
Opening a Language Centre In Vietnam by GuestPoster229
Hello all, I searched the forum and found some information about starting a business, but nothing specifically about foreigners opening a language centre. Does anyone have any experience or information about this or can direct me to the right ...
This practice is quite illegal, unprofessional and unethical. Read More
Opening a Language Centre In Vietnam by GuestPoster229
Hello all, I searched the forum and found some information about starting a business, but nothing specifically about foreigners opening a language centre. Does anyone have any experience or information about this or can direct me to the right ...
Jahan, what you and your friend want to to do is quite honorable, but alas not achievable, at least in Vietnam. You might be more successful in pursuing what I have accomplished in doing here in VN and that is in operating my private tutoring ... Read More
Canadian planning first trip to Vietnam - Health related questions by 1willy1
Hey guys its been my dream for years now to travel to asia. Due to work I just haven't been able to make it happen but this year I am going to ho chi min city. My tickets are purchased for this January, about 6 weeks away from now and I have ...
Health system is NOT just fine Read More
renounce Vietnamese citizenship to become a US citizen? by Kennyho121
Hi, So my wife is applying for US citizenship and as far as we know the oath of allegiance that immigrants must take in order to become naturalized citizens declares that the immigrant will: “renounce and abjure all allegiance and fidelity to ...
Citizenship agreement policies may be quite different between the USA and other countries. There are reciprocity agreements with many countries wherein dual citizenships are allowed. Read More
Longstay visas - can I keep bouncing on a 6-month business visa? by robsamui
I'm a newbie, but coming to retire in Vietnam soon and have been scanning these forums for months. I can't find any references to my question - sorry if I've missed it. Whats the official attitude to using end-to-end 6-month business ...
yes, but try "bouncing" around on a 1-yr business visa Read More
Canadian planning first trip to Vietnam - Health related questions by 1willy1
Hey guys its been my dream for years now to travel to asia. Due to work I just haven't been able to make it happen but this year I am going to ho chi min city. My tickets are purchased for this January, about 6 weeks away from now and I have ...
Being primarily in the city should not exempt you from getting your vaccinations prior to departing Canada and, in particular, being in the city would suggest that it is even more important that you get your travel vaccinations since there are 10 ... Read More
Prescription medications in Vietnam by Jim-Minh
I have three medications that I take here in the US that can't be purchased in Vietnam or Thailand (AFAIK). I have also found that even blood pressure and diabetes medications can't be shipped to Vietnam. I am facing the prospect of making a ...
Jim-Minh, this is Dr. Mike; I do not have knowledge of your first two medications; however, as a user of Exforge, I can certainly help you, here. Exforge, as you must be aware is a combination of Valsartan and Amlodipine Besylate. While Exforge is ... Read More
Marrying a Vietnamese woman by schleger
Hello, I am a 58 year old teacher and plan on moving to Vietnam at the end of December and I am looking for advice on the marrying process. I will be moving to the hanoi area, getting a teaching job for a few years. I have a pension from teaching ...
Yes, most certainly; if you have been attentive to everyone comments then you will know what and who I am referring to. Read More
Marrying a Vietnamese woman by schleger
Hello, I am a 58 year old teacher and plan on moving to Vietnam at the end of December and I am looking for advice on the marrying process. I will be moving to the hanoi area, getting a teaching job for a few years. I have a pension from teaching ...
Correction to your statement - If you are NOT married, you CAN still live together. Read More
Catholic mass in English? by Milush
Hello I am from South Africa and am looking for a Catholic parish. I have googled and see there are a few just wondering if anyone has attented any english services and could recommend one. I do not have my own transport and am residing in d2. I ...
Only at the Cathedral Notre Dame in city center. Read More
Average salary for English teacher with no degree by Froyo3652
Hi all, I've got my first interview at an English center in Ho Chi Minh City later this week and I have no idea what is a fair number to start at when negotiating salary. I have essentially zero experience, and no degree, but I have a TEFL ...
You SHOULD have a university degree; however, some individuals, sometimes, slip through the cracks with SOME organizations in the HCMC area; so you may get lucky. The 'top' average salary will be between $18-20 and this has NOT changed in ... Read More
Police Residence Registration by GuestPoster0147
Hi everyone We moved into an apartment in a tower building in Binh Chanh a few weeks ago. The landlords are Vietnamese people who just bought this apartment. We are their first renter. That's why we recently asked them if they registered us ...
Well stated, exactly right - interpretation Read More
Scooter on Phu Quoc by chrisc7753759
Hello, I will be moving to Phu Quoc from the USA and I'll need to purchase a new scooter and helmet. Can I purchase on Phu Quoc or do I need to purchase on the mainland and bring to Phu Quoc on the ferry?
The question of whether to purchase a motor bike on Phu Quoc Island or on the mainland is one that I cannot directly respond to; however, my question for you is WHY? Why do you believe that you need a "new" motor bike. It is a fact that ... Read More
apartment rent question by Canadian Fob
Your input is greatly appreciated. We rent an apartment building in D2 for 6 months. We have been here only 3 months so far. In March we got our water bill and it was 11 m3 for my wife and I with 2 kids (7 years old and 2 months old). Seem high ...
We live in District 2 and our monthly water bill is much less than that; however, negotiation with landlords or management is quite variable from one property to another and although I cannot say this with any certainty or conviction, I have a ... Read More
What does one can buy as property for 250 K USD ? by Ceevee369
Not having a crystal ball telling us how prices will increase, or how the bubble will burst, but we’d like to hear opinions / advise what one can buy for around 5.5 billion VND these days. We need space. Like 100 SQM or 3 BR’s but ...
Having resided in Vietnam for the past 7 years while acquiring extensive experience in the property management (buy and sell) discipline, I can safely advise you to be most careful and cautious and diligent in your research, consideration and ... Read More
Police Residence Registration by GuestPoster0147
Hi everyone We moved into an apartment in a tower building in Binh Chanh a few weeks ago. The landlords are Vietnamese people who just bought this apartment. We are their first renter. That's why we recently asked them if they registered us ...
Most police districts or precincts are different from one another in that what one police facility regulates as their policy may be different and even inconsistent with the police policies within another location. For example what you have ... Read More
hi a question about long term stay in vietnam by jeannieb
Hi I am in Cambodia at present and coming to look at vietnam.......what are the possibilities of a long term visa...thanks...jeannie b
Correction!. The 1 year business visa "back then" is identical to the 1 year business visa now. I did not need to leave every 3 months in the first year that it became available nor do I need to leave now "every 3 months". The ... Read More
hi a question about long term stay in vietnam by jeannieb
Hi I am in Cambodia at present and coming to look at vietnam.......what are the possibilities of a long term visa...thanks...jeannie b
You may need to understand that 2 years back, 1 year business visas were only available to US passport holders. This may now be different; so you should ask the question. As well, all agents are NOT the same. There are, however, 2 agents that I am ... Read More
Money for Visa Run to Cambodia by GuestPoster229
Hello all, I need to do a visa run to Cambodia and stay there for a few days. Those of you who do this from Vietnam, where/how do you exchange money? Do you take Vietnamese Dang with you or US Dollars, or ... Where do you exchange your ...
I hope that you are reading all the feedback comments because as I said earlier, it is best to take with you USD; if you do not accept this then you may discover later while in Cambodia that you wish you had. Read More
Money for Visa Run to Cambodia by GuestPoster229
Hello all, I need to do a visa run to Cambodia and stay there for a few days. Those of you who do this from Vietnam, where/how do you exchange money? Do you take Vietnamese Dang with you or US Dollars, or ... Where do you exchange your ...
As I have already stated twice, you can (if you are already in Saigon), just take a few minutes to go to the Embassy in District 1 to spend 5 minutes completing an easy form to receive your visa - take the 'road less travelled' - no need to ... Read More
Money for Visa Run to Cambodia by GuestPoster229
Hello all, I need to do a visa run to Cambodia and stay there for a few days. Those of you who do this from Vietnam, where/how do you exchange money? Do you take Vietnamese Dang with you or US Dollars, or ... Where do you exchange your ...
As I said before, the Cambodia "Embassy" in Saigon is located at 41 Phung Khac Khoan in District 1 if you are in Saigon or if you would like to travel up North to visit Hanoi, there is also an embassy there, too. Their hrs are 830-1130a ... Read More
hi a question about long term stay in vietnam by jeannieb
Hi I am in Cambodia at present and coming to look at vietnam.......what are the possibilities of a long term visa...thanks...jeannie b
You may or may not be able to obtain a one year business visa as I have but only online. There are 6 month visas but most likely from where you are positioned now in Cambodia, you may not be able to arrange more than a 3 month multi-entry visa but ... Read More
Money for Visa Run to Cambodia by GuestPoster229
Hello all, I need to do a visa run to Cambodia and stay there for a few days. Those of you who do this from Vietnam, where/how do you exchange money? Do you take Vietnamese Dang with you or US Dollars, or ... Where do you exchange your ...
Hi, just got Cambodian visa at Cambodian Embassy in Saigon - quite easy and just took a few minutes but had to return 2 days later to pick up and cost is $30 for 1 month. Regarding your second question, most definitely take with you only $US ... Read More
Sending money out of Vietnam by too0ky
Hey everyone! I am just learning how restrictive the banking regulations in Vietnam is. I lend a friend some cash, and now she is trying to pay me back, but unfortunately, the banks would not allow her to send it overseas (US or Budapest). Does ...
Western Union offices are everywhere and it works for me and works for others so it will work for you. Read More
Foreign Banks Fleeing Viet Nam by gobot
Article of interest to expats. "Fleeing" is hyperbole, and only offers speculation about why banks are leaving/divesting. [url=http://www.atimes.com/article/foreign-banks-fleeing-vietnam/]Foreign Banks Fleeing Viet Nam[/url]
My partner is a top level manager at one of the larger VN banks and I can tell you that her thoughts are that the two are very much unrelated and that there is another major reason why foreign banks, e.g., CBA - Australia et al, are pulling out of ... Read More
Foreign Banks Fleeing Viet Nam by gobot
Article of interest to expats. "Fleeing" is hyperbole, and only offers speculation about why banks are leaving/divesting. [url=http://www.atimes.com/article/foreign-banks-fleeing-vietnam/]Foreign Banks Fleeing Viet Nam[/url]
I believe that the forum subject is about 'foreign banks fleeing VN' NOT associated with local VN banks. Read More
How do I know if a Vietnamese girl likes me? by GuestPoster 156
My best friend from American said he had a beautiful 28 year old cousin in Ho Chi Minh City that I should meet. I took him up on his offer and started texting her a few months prior to my trip. I arrived 2 weeks ago and so far have gone out to 3 ...
"The second date she stood me up. I was going to take her to a restaurant and she texts me that she just woke up at noon time because she drank too much night before because of a friends birthday party." - Read your own words and you will ... Read More
Corporal Punishment in Vietnam Schools. by Downsouth
We live in the boonies and our kids attend local schools. My kids have come home on more than one occasion with marks or bruises on their bodies from being struck by teachers and I've had a gutful of it. Taking into consideration that corporal ...
Good Luck but that' just one of the ruleless aspects of the Vn society it's allowed by the government as, too, it is still practiced in Singapore. However, there are limits; for example, just last year, 2 female teaching assistants were ... Read More
How do I know if a Vietnamese girl likes me? by GuestPoster 156
My best friend from American said he had a beautiful 28 year old cousin in Ho Chi Minh City that I should meet. I took him up on his offer and started texting her a few months prior to my trip. I arrived 2 weeks ago and so far have gone out to 3 ...
You won't know; so don't ever trust - not completely or you will be deceived - and sorry. Read More
Troubled and Confused by laststanding
Just wanting to get some opinions from people out there. So here is my situation and please feel free to express opinions. Ok here it is and see ! A year and a half ago I married my Vietnamese girlfriend of 4 years. Our relationship and experience ...
Well, from a westerner point of view, you are not over-reacting but from a Vietnamese perspective, you are. The behavior of your "wife" is quite common for Vietnamese women. I have lived in VN for 7 years and know this to be true. If you ... Read More
bringing cell phone from USA to Vietnam by KenLiss
Which model Iphone 6 will work in Vietnam if I buy it in the USA?
All phones are created now for international use; that's why we have adapters for different power outlets from country to country. Read More
bringing cell phone from USA to Vietnam by KenLiss
Which model Iphone 6 will work in Vietnam if I buy it in the USA?
This question that you have is exactly what I am now going through; so I will explain everything that you need to know which is quite similar to what others have said before me. I am now in the US and will be returning to Vietnam (where I also ... Read More
Shipping car from USA to Vietnam by Dr. G
Hi all, Dr.G, here, as a resident of Vietnam (HCMC), there are many things that I already know; however, as I am now back in the US for a short time before returning to VN, I am in need of feedback from anyone who is familiar with shipping my car ...
Very good thought - yes, it really is a political thing, particularly or solely on the part of the Vietnamese government. The import tariff into VN for cars is 100% of the value of the car brought in - and furthermore, the VN government values the ... Read More
Shipping car from USA to Vietnam by Dr. G
Hi all, Dr.G, here, as a resident of Vietnam (HCMC), there are many things that I already know; however, as I am now back in the US for a short time before returning to VN, I am in need of feedback from anyone who is familiar with shipping my car ...
Thanks Mark, I will certainly try to protect myself in any way possible. Read More
Shipping car from USA to Vietnam by Dr. G
Hi all, Dr.G, here, as a resident of Vietnam (HCMC), there are many things that I already know; however, as I am now back in the US for a short time before returning to VN, I am in need of feedback from anyone who is familiar with shipping my car ...
Thanks Mark; I've spoken to several companies that ship to Vietnam and, with them knowing that my car is a 2014 model, they did not say that there are any restrictions in terms of year of car because they have sent ones much older than mine. The ... Read More
Shipping car from USA to Vietnam
Hi all, Dr.G, here, as a resident of Vietnam (HCMC), there are many things that I already know; however, as I am now back in the US for a short time before returning to VN, I am in need of feedback from anyone who is familiar with shipping my car ... Read More
Transplanting to VN from AUS - English teaching - Starry starry eye'd by damianellwood
This is both an introduce myself post and an enquiry post. I have been "loitering" - I understand is the expression - on this site for a while and have finally joined up. I am considering transplanting to Vietnam from Australia. My brother is ...
Daniel, hello - this is Dr. Mike Groner and, somehow, for whatever reason, I came upon a message that you had sent (I imagine through the Expat system back in 2014 re: your interest in considering a move from Australia to Vietnam. Well, why I should ... Read More
Drink spiked on Saturday night Bui Vien - please warn others by Redmundial
Hi All...I haven't been on here for a while as wasn't around, but came back to Saigon last week and headed out to meet some friends on Saturday. We had a couple of beers and food, nothing major then they went home. So I went to universal bar ...
Do not waste your time reporting this to the police; they are too often inept, discourteous or disinterested in assisting you. For the most part, police are very non supportive of foreigners. Read More
local police want me to "extend the time of stay" by ilyousha_marko
I have a 12 month DN business visa, which started in November 2016. If I understood right, it allows me to stay in country for a year without leaving. My landlord took pictures of it and passport when i moved in in December 2016, and supposedly ...
I have a 12 month business visa and have just been out of the country and returned on same visa; so yes you are free to come and go - multiple times, unless, of course, you paid only for a single entry business visa. Secondly you are allowed to ... Read More
Amount needed to live comfortably in Saigon by maxman71
Hello All-- I hope this question has not been asked too much, but here goes: I plan on retiring in the next 1-2 years, and I would like to consider Saigon as a retirement destination. I have previously lived and worked in Thailand for 6 years, ...
You and I are reading from different lists Read More
Amount needed to live comfortably in Saigon by maxman71
Hello All-- I hope this question has not been asked too much, but here goes: I plan on retiring in the next 1-2 years, and I would like to consider Saigon as a retirement destination. I have previously lived and worked in Thailand for 6 years, ...
Your last statement is incorrect - Vietnam, in fact, was mentioned within the top 20 countries with the best economically affordable areas to live in. I have that fact sheet in front of me now. However, individuals can easily fall into an ... Read More
Travellers in Vietnam cannot stay in private house anymore??? by ClausMoon
Hi, I m just coming to Dak Lak province (eighth time already) to visit my girlfriend for 4 weeks. I got traveling visum (type AR), valued to 2020. Until now, I always stayed at home of her family and I applied for this in municipal police station. ...
exactly right - the same for me but regularly everyday for the last 5 years - just register with local police Read More
Visa to Vietnam from America! !! Is it true? by reds_196
I know Vietnam laws change very frequently, I would like to visit Vietnam in December but I'm looking online for a reliable source to apply for visa on arrival, can anyone recommend a good website? I saw they no longer give 1, 3 or 6 months visa ...
My one-year Business visa (and I don't do business in VN) was processed in 2 days at a cost of $280. Just simple negotiation /communication with the right people will enable any US citizen (only) to obtain this visa. Read More
Visa to Vietnam from America! !! Is it true? by reds_196
I know Vietnam laws change very frequently, I would like to visit Vietnam in December but I'm looking online for a reliable source to apply for visa on arrival, can anyone recommend a good website? I saw they no longer give 1, 3 or 6 months visa ...
Oh, yes certainly I can. I can show you my current one year business visa just obtained prior to my arrival back from Australia last week. However, how (in what form and where can I display or share this with you - not allowed at this forum site). Read More
Travellers in Vietnam cannot stay in private house anymore??? by ClausMoon
Hi, I m just coming to Dak Lak province (eighth time already) to visit my girlfriend for 4 weeks. I got traveling visum (type AR), valued to 2020. Until now, I always stayed at home of her family and I applied for this in municipal police station. ...
I was responding the person who initiated this conversation saying that it is not true that foreigners are not allowed to stay in same home as their partner except that I understand, too, that, depending on which area, region, province or district, ... Read More
Amount needed to live comfortably in Saigon by maxman71
Hello All-- I hope this question has not been asked too much, but here goes: I plan on retiring in the next 1-2 years, and I would like to consider Saigon as a retirement destination. I have previously lived and worked in Thailand for 6 years, ...
With the level of monthly financial source that you refer to, you can certainly live most comfortably in VN; however this much depends on personal individual needs and level of comfort for each individual. Most foreigners can reside comfortably on ... Read More
Travellers in Vietnam cannot stay in private house anymore??? by ClausMoon
Hi, I m just coming to Dak Lak province (eighth time already) to visit my girlfriend for 4 weeks. I got traveling visum (type AR), valued to 2020. Until now, I always stayed at home of her family and I applied for this in municipal police station. ...
Not True except that policies may differ between different districts and provinces. Read More
Visa to Vietnam from America! !! Is it true? by reds_196
I know Vietnam laws change very frequently, I would like to visit Vietnam in December but I'm looking online for a reliable source to apply for visa on arrival, can anyone recommend a good website? I saw they no longer give 1, 3 or 6 months visa ...
As an American citizen, you can obtain a business visa as easily as you can obtain a tourist visa with the advantage of the business visa being that you can enter and exit and re-enter as many times as you choose to within the year of your visas. ... Read More
Visa to Vietnam from America! !! Is it true? by reds_196
I know Vietnam laws change very frequently, I would like to visit Vietnam in December but I'm looking online for a reliable source to apply for visa on arrival, can anyone recommend a good website? I saw they no longer give 1, 3 or 6 months visa ...
Not true - you can obtain a one month, 3 month or one year visa as an American Read More
Business Visa Help? by sward654
Hello everyone, I have recently joined this forum and I really appreciate all the help it provides. I am from the UK and I intend to travel to Vietnam next month for business purposes. I have been informed by the Vietnamese embassy in the UK that ...
I don't think we're allowed to post details of commercial businesses on this site, however, I am certain that if you contact my particular (well-advertised) visa agent then you would receive the same fee rate of which I paid which is most ... Read More
Business Visa Help? by sward654
Hello everyone, I have recently joined this forum and I really appreciate all the help it provides. I am from the UK and I intend to travel to Vietnam next month for business purposes. I have been informed by the Vietnamese embassy in the UK that ...
You are correct; that price is absurd; however, I paid half that price. Read More
Business Visa Help? by sward654
Hello everyone, I have recently joined this forum and I really appreciate all the help it provides. I am from the UK and I intend to travel to Vietnam next month for business purposes. I have been informed by the Vietnamese embassy in the UK that ...
nor does the business visa (for one year) require a letter Read More
Business Visa Help? by sward654
Hello everyone, I have recently joined this forum and I really appreciate all the help it provides. I am from the UK and I intend to travel to Vietnam next month for business purposes. I have been informed by the Vietnamese embassy in the UK that ...
A sponsorship letter is NOT required if you have a US citizenship passport. If you are a US citizen and have been told that you require a sponsorship letter (or a business visa) then I suggest that you change the agent that you have been working ... Read More
Business Visa Help? by sward654
Hello everyone, I have recently joined this forum and I really appreciate all the help it provides. I am from the UK and I intend to travel to Vietnam next month for business purposes. I have been informed by the Vietnamese embassy in the UK that ...
Wrong - it is just that easy and was (for me) but you must be a US citizen. The whole process took about 30 minutes. I cannot begin to suggest what it would be like if you have a passport from any other country. Read More
Business Visa Help? by sward654
Hello everyone, I have recently joined this forum and I really appreciate all the help it provides. I am from the UK and I intend to travel to Vietnam next month for business purposes. I have been informed by the Vietnamese embassy in the UK that ...
Right - it's easy for US citizens Read More
Business Visa Help? by sward654
Hello everyone, I have recently joined this forum and I really appreciate all the help it provides. I am from the UK and I intend to travel to Vietnam next month for business purposes. I have been informed by the Vietnamese embassy in the UK that ...
Perhaps but not for a US citizen Read More
Business Visa Help? by sward654
Hello everyone, I have recently joined this forum and I really appreciate all the help it provides. I am from the UK and I intend to travel to Vietnam next month for business purposes. I have been informed by the Vietnamese embassy in the UK that ...
This is not necessarily true. If you are a US citizen then just apply without any documentation or support or sponsorship - for one year multiple entry visa - This is new; it was just created through a recent visit and agreement with President Obama ... Read More
Finding Work on Short Notice, w/out TEFFL/TESL by blagman08
Hello, I have my Bachelors, a bit of teaching experience, and a lot of international NGO experience. I was looking at moving to vietnam in a few months, saving up for TEFL certification, but the place I am currently living is being terminated so I ...
not necessarily true that you get the better jobs - more depends on other qualifications and experience. Read More
Finding Work on Short Notice, w/out TEFFL/TESL by blagman08
Hello, I have my Bachelors, a bit of teaching experience, and a lot of international NGO experience. I was looking at moving to vietnam in a few months, saving up for TEFL certification, but the place I am currently living is being terminated so I ...
You definitely do not require a TEFL certificate with every organization in VN in order to get some English teaching work. Read More
Business Visa Help? by sward654
Hello everyone, I have recently joined this forum and I really appreciate all the help it provides. I am from the UK and I intend to travel to Vietnam next month for business purposes. I have been informed by the Vietnamese embassy in the UK that ...
oh yes, if you are a US citizen, certainly you can qualify, immediately, for a one year business visa - as I just had last night - easy for US passport holders because of recent new agreement between US and Vietnam. Read More
Customer care in Vietnam by Priscilla
Hello everyone, The way customer services are handled can greatly affect your views on certain brands, products, companies or stores. As a consumer, it is important to get familiar with local practices regarding client assistance in Vietnam and ...
I completely agree with everything that you have said. Read More
Expand your social circle in Vietnam by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Moving to Vietnam means leaving one's family and friends behind. Creating a circle of friends or joining an existing one should therefore be paramount in order to fight loneliness in your host country. But how can one develop a ...
I don't understand your reply, How do your thoughts connect with what I was saying? - very strange. Read More
Expand your social circle in Vietnam by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Moving to Vietnam means leaving one's family and friends behind. Creating a circle of friends or joining an existing one should therefore be paramount in order to fight loneliness in your host country. But how can one develop a ...
A simple message: Many Vietnamese people (adults) are like children. When in most situations that I speak Vietnamese, adults laugh at me - at my, sometimes, inaccurate mispronunciations. I have seldom observed Westerners within Vietnam laugh at ... Read More
Expand your social circle in Vietnam by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Moving to Vietnam means leaving one's family and friends behind. Creating a circle of friends or joining an existing one should therefore be paramount in order to fight loneliness in your host country. But how can one develop a ...
Who are you responding to? Read More
Expand your social circle in Vietnam by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Moving to Vietnam means leaving one's family and friends behind. Creating a circle of friends or joining an existing one should therefore be paramount in order to fight loneliness in your host country. But how can one develop a ...
Hi Exmaviet, I'm both an American and an Australian and having taught in both countries for many years nd now having taught here in Vietnam for the last 6 years and being the same '2nd' teacher that you referred to, I'm in agreement ... Read More
Insurance coverage in Vietnam by Kenjee
Hello everyone, Moving abroad requires adequate insurance coverage. What type of insurance expatriates need the most in Vietnam: health, house or liability insurance? All of them? Do they come as a package? Are there other insurance ...
Andrew, hi, I'm 60 + as well and looking as you are, too. Read More
Insurance coverage in Vietnam by Kenjee
Hello everyone, Moving abroad requires adequate insurance coverage. What type of insurance expatriates need the most in Vietnam: health, house or liability insurance? All of them? Do they come as a package? Are there other insurance ...
Ok, I understand your comments, now; thank you Read More
Insurance coverage in Vietnam by Kenjee
Hello everyone, Moving abroad requires adequate insurance coverage. What type of insurance expatriates need the most in Vietnam: health, house or liability insurance? All of them? Do they come as a package? Are there other insurance ...
????? people ARE allowed to work overseas - what is it that you mean? and Medicare (US) only serves as a public insurance - private insurance (as in Australia) is still necessary for private hospital care. Read More
Insurance coverage in Vietnam by Kenjee
Hello everyone, Moving abroad requires adequate insurance coverage. What type of insurance expatriates need the most in Vietnam: health, house or liability insurance? All of them? Do they come as a package? Are there other insurance ...
Just one thought that should not be overlooked and one that I am continuously working one. This is trying to find ONE insurance policy with international coverage in order to eliminate the need to have separate insurance policies in different ... Read More
Insurance coverage in Vietnam by Kenjee
Hello everyone, Moving abroad requires adequate insurance coverage. What type of insurance expatriates need the most in Vietnam: health, house or liability insurance? All of them? Do they come as a package? Are there other insurance ...
I am in almost complete agreement with you EXCEPT that perhaps Blue Cross (Vietnam) may be a bit different since they are somewhat associated with Blue Cross/Blue Shield back in the USA. Read More
About food in Vietnam by AlegreViajero
NB: The start of this post is a copy of a few responses to another post about "[url=https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=576482#3191166]Delicatessen Shops in Saigon[/url]". My remark was simply: "[b]Vietnamese only care for ...
This is my last reply to you: I did not say or refer to "fish caught at sea" - enough said; leave it at that. Read More
About food in Vietnam by AlegreViajero
NB: The start of this post is a copy of a few responses to another post about "[url=https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=576482#3191166]Delicatessen Shops in Saigon[/url]". My remark was simply: "[b]Vietnamese only care for ...
There are particular species of "Tuna" of which you refer to that may have higher levels of Mercury than others, however, the most common type of Tuna that most people consume is quite healthy to eat. Where fish are on the food chain has ... Read More
About food in Vietnam by AlegreViajero
NB: The start of this post is a copy of a few responses to another post about "[url=https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=576482#3191166]Delicatessen Shops in Saigon[/url]". My remark was simply: "[b]Vietnamese only care for ...
Let me begin by saying that most Vietnamese food is unique and very nice; however, for now there is much to be concerned with regarding some of the mainstays of Vietnamese cuisine. I'm referring to two most recent discoveries: fish-poisoning ... Read More
Best cities to live in Vietnam by Julien
Hi, Its not always easy to decide in which area to settle in when moving to Vietnam. According to you, what are the best cites to live in? Which regions offer most of the job opportunities, a good quality of life, an affordable cost of ...
Herbj, the Mekong is what you say it is - and more. If more westerners travelled there more often than they do, they, too, could realize the value of your comments and, also, how plentiful, comfortable and accessible the area could be to live in. ... Read More
Best cities to live in Vietnam by Julien
Hi, Its not always easy to decide in which area to settle in when moving to Vietnam. According to you, what are the best cites to live in? Which regions offer most of the job opportunities, a good quality of life, an affordable cost of ...
Saigon is one of the worst places to live in Vietnam - very dirty environment, very dangerous at times, too busy, too noisy, too many people, many insincere, lazy, dirty, stupid people - ah but Ben Tre and Dalat and Danang - wonderful places to live ... Read More
Riding a bike in HCMC - "On the Road" Advice Required by Tizoc
Hi there, I'm new to the city and although I know how to ride a motorbike / scooter, I want to see if there someone in the group that could assist with some tips regarding riding in HCMC and also if perhaps we could have a "on the ...
Hi Tizac, I hope the best for you in riding a motor bike here in the HCMC area. Firstly, you need to believe that motor bikes are weapons of mass destruction. They are more dangerous than firearms in the US. Some basic rules for you are: try never ... Read More
If student has bad result in class,is it right to blame for teacher? by tien.ho03
I worked for certain language centers in Vietnam. I am an English teacher. Students coming to those center are quite "lazy". Most of them just learn in class and do not study or even do homework at home. So the question is that how they ...
Hi - This is a question that has been asked and debated for many generations of student-teacher relationships. There is probably no one answer the is suitable in all circumstances. Yes, while it may be true that for "every student who fails, ... Read More
Wearing helmet in VN by Cloud9
Just curious with regard to the helmet law. Can I bring my own helmet or do I have to buy the plastic kind as seen on YouTube that the locals normally wear ? I'd rather bring my own if that's ok with the local Five O
police do not stop bike riders like that - get real - police do nothing except perhaps accept $$$$$ Read More
Vietnamese cuisine by Priscilla
Hi, When living abroad, tasting the local cuisine is part of discovering the country. What is your favorite food in Vietnam? What is the local speciality? Share with us the local tastes of Vietnam and why not your best recipe. Thank ...
Fried mouse and boiled snake head - yum yum - both very nice Read More
Safety in Vietnam by Christine
Hi, We would like to talk about a sensitive but important topic: do you feel safe in Vietnam? How would you define the level of safety in the country? Can you walk safely during the day and at night without any fear? Do you think there ...
No, you are missing the point. This is not at all about comparing one place to another; so your comment is not relevant. It is only about people here giving examples of why they believe VN to be a safe or unsafe country to live in. Best for you to ... Read More
Safety in Vietnam by Christine
Hi, We would like to talk about a sensitive but important topic: do you feel safe in Vietnam? How would you define the level of safety in the country? Can you walk safely during the day and at night without any fear? Do you think there ...
I have read all your comments and for those fortunate enough to have not YET experienced any concerns about safety here in VN, well, that's wonderful - for you. However, there are many who have had some unforgettable and most regrettable ... Read More
Foreigners on motorbikes - good or bad? by Redmundial
Hi Everyone I hope your all well. I've been on the tripadvisor forum and there seems to be a constant outcry against foreigners driving motorbikes in VN. The general consensus there is that it's not legal, and very unsafe. I have to say ...
Some Westerners on motor bikes drive as bad as the Vietnamese - careless, unconscious, reckless, high risk takers and no common sense for any rules (they just make up their own), the safety of others or how their poor judgement and irresponsible ... Read More
Foreigners on motorbikes - good or bad? by Redmundial
Hi Everyone I hope your all well. I've been on the tripadvisor forum and there seems to be a constant outcry against foreigners driving motorbikes in VN. The general consensus there is that it's not legal, and very unsafe. I have to say ...
no one has motor bike insurance in VN; in fact not too many people have insurance for anything except perhaps health insurance. Read More
Is Vietnam a good place for a single 60 year old woman to retire? by suefrankdahl
How safe are cities compared to other parts of the world? How easy is travel within VN? Can one get by with English and French?
Many places in Vietnam are very very dangerous to live in and travel through. You must believe this to be true. Others who tell you differently most probably have been well protected by a supportive group of people around them or live in a more ... Read More
ONE WAY TICKET by philcon
Hi I am planning to fly into Vietnam from Australia in January 2015 I am hoping to stay for an extended period, I am not sure how long. Question: Can i fly in with a three month visa on a one way ticket? Thanks for any reply
Dear, if anyone asks, just tell them that you are still undecided about your return date. As long as you return within your visa period, then it should remain private to you; it is not any of their business to know. They do not need to know this as ... Read More
I'm getting sick of this slow internet !! by Frank Malt
It's been 10 days now and it crawls at a snails pace, so fix it already !! How much longer do we endure this?
I am not familiar with your current provider is but if they are somewhat associated with VNPT then I can offer some history and advice. VNPT is a government provider and notoriously famous for poor quality service. As it is, since we have had this ... Read More
Healthcare in Vietnam by Julien
Hi, how does the healthcare system work in Vietnam ? Is it efficient ? What are the main differences between public and private sectors? Is it recommended to purchase private health insurance in Vietnam? Thanks in advance for sharing ...
Hi again Geoff. Sincerely, I believe that you may have been misinformed. Monthly deductions are made from my social security benefits that I have been receiving for several years. Other than a couple visits to some family in the US throughout the ... Read More
Healthcare in Vietnam by Julien
Hi, how does the healthcare system work in Vietnam ? Is it efficient ? What are the main differences between public and private sectors? Is it recommended to purchase private health insurance in Vietnam? Thanks in advance for sharing ...
Geoff, why would you need to spend 6 months of the year back in the US as regards Medicare?? I have medicare coverage in the US and don't need to spend 6 months there to qualify. I am just being very curious about your thoughts on this. Mike G Read More
Expat's first impressions of Sai Gon by cvco
Impressions by a new visitor: Taxis 1) I had good service from Vinasun and Mai Linh, sometimes the drivers really went out of their way to be helpful and always used an honest meter. Only once in Mai Linh, i got a very old driver, maybe 80 years ...
Oh yes and then there are those who believe that you can "piss in public" but cannot "kiss in public" - this can be true. Read More
Banking - depositing US dollars in VN bank by swendig
Hi all. I own a business in Cambodia where I earn US dollars. I used to be able to bring that money here and deposit it in my Vietnamese bank, but because of new money laundering regulations, they no longer allow me to just bring the money in. ...
Yes, quite simply, convert to VN $, open a savings acc't and make your deposit - no problem and then later when you withdraw, simply convert back to $USD as you need to. This is not a complicated issue. Read More
Am I being naive..... by rlholley
Am I being naive with the thought that a TESOL, TEFL or CELTA certification is not essential to secure quality employment for one who has practiced law/litigation for 30+ years in addition to doing some adjunct work along the way. I'd prefer to ...
You may not be naive but only believing what others have said may be the requirement. I have been residing in VN for the past 5 years and have 4 degrees (3 in teacher education) but as of yet do not hold a TESOL or TEFL or Cambridge, etc., ... Read More
Are the chances of finding a vietnamese wife in vietnam good by davidgoode
Hi there, I am a vietnamese american guy living in the U.S and I am having a hard time finding a girlfriend here. I am looking into getting introduced by family in vietnam to a vietnamese girl. I am not the partying type of guy and I just want to ...
The kindest advise that anyone can offer you is to be very, very careful when meeting, interacting or considering beginning a relationship with a Vietnamese woman. There are far many more dishonest VN women here than honest. Many western men have ... Read More
Expat's first impressions of Sai Gon by cvco
Impressions by a new visitor: Taxis 1) I had good service from Vinasun and Mai Linh, sometimes the drivers really went out of their way to be helpful and always used an honest meter. Only once in Mai Linh, i got a very old driver, maybe 80 years ...
Much of what you have to say is true but not always. You have offered some honest personal first impressions but they are also reflective of your naive thoughts. If you reside here long enough and integrate within the 'real' Vietnam, you ... Read More
I'm getting sick of this slow internet !! by Frank Malt
It's been 10 days now and it crawls at a snails pace, so fix it already !! How much longer do we endure this?
Even worse when your business depends on it. Unfortunately, we live in a government apartment building that is contracted to VNPT (again, a government owned provided); so we cannot independently contract with another provider until we move from our ... Read More