I do believe
Canadian expat in Vietnam
Forum posts
359
Contacts
13
About me
Canadian
Lives in Saigon
Speaks English, Vietnamese and French
Registration: 15 January 2014
Most common scams in Vietnam by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Settling in Vietnam as an expat implies navigating into a new and unfamiliar environment and habits, making you potentially vulnerable to scammers. Whether it’s immigration or finance advice, housing scam, online traps or ...
@Cheryl @Cheryl I have been in Vietnam for more than 16 years and married a local woman with two children. Imagine my surprise when my Canadian TD bank closed my lifetime pension account. Dozens of calls and the bank hasn't restored my income ... Read More
Severe Traffic Police Crackdown? by expat97
Is anyone aware of/heard of a massive traffic police crack-down?My wife reports that the traffic police all over Vietnam have started about 1 week or so ago totally MASSIVE crack-down with huge fines.Fines for almost everything (i can only ope that ...
@OceanBeach92107 I strongly disagree with the strict enforcement of traffic laws. I have been driving in Vietnam for 17 years I have interacted with traffic police from time to time. Egregious driving should be enforced but common sense should ... Read More
Zoophobic? Might want to reconsider Vietnam as your expat destination by Aidan in HCMC
Though I don't consider myself to suffer from zoophobia, here are a few instances where I would have preferred to not have been exposed to some of VN's fauna.Motoring from D7 to D1 in Saigon one afternoon, I was about halfway through D4 when I ...
@Aidan in HCMC I have a couple of acres near the Cambodian border and occasionally come across snakes. I stopped killing them as they are too plentiful. I just chuck em over the fence. We have centipedes and scorpions in the house but have been ... Read More
Dental work Tay Ninh
@I do believe expat.com does not seem to be functioning Read More
Dental work Tay Ninh by I do believe
Where can I find a good dentist?
Tay Ninh Read More
Moving to Vietnam temporarily by Eile
Hi all expatriates My name is Eileen and I have taught ESL in the North of Vietnam and it was a wonderful experience one that is edged in my memory for ever. I have booked accommodation and n Da Nang resort for one month and will see how things go ...
Yes - impossible! Read More
Moving to Vietnam temporarily by Eile
Hi all expatriates My name is Eileen and I have taught ESL in the North of Vietnam and it was a wonderful experience one that is edged in my memory for ever. I have booked accommodation and n Da Nang resort for one month and will see how things go ...
@williamherron13 You are right about all the changes. I live in the countryside with my Vietnamese wife and enjoy the isolation save for the local fascination with karaoke. Believe it or not, I miss the bad roads, grass houses and all the rest. Read More
The importance of local language in Vietnam by Cheryl
Hey everyone, As an expat, language questions often arise due to the need to communicate effectively in a new country. We’re curious to read your experiences with learning and using the local language in Vietnam. Here are some questions to get ...
@tunnelrat69 I hear you - sometimes. I lost my hearing in my right ear so I am constantly arranging myself to the speaker. I have lived in Vietnam for 15 years and taught English for 8 years in Saigon. I have met just about every level of English ... Read More
The importance of local language in Vietnam by Cheryl
Hey everyone, As an expat, language questions often arise due to the need to communicate effectively in a new country. We’re curious to read your experiences with learning and using the local language in Vietnam. Here are some questions to get ...
As a rule Vietnamese don't understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner. There are exceptions but not many. Hey - learn Vietnamese for the odd word that your friends might understand. Education level of a native Vietnamese has nothing to do with it; ... 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 ...
Only once in my 14 years living in Vietnam did I receive my post from Canada. Sending to Vietnam by any way other than courier is a crap shoot. Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
monny.nguyen I married a Vietnamese woman about 3 years ago. She understands most of my Vietnamese which I have been speaking for more than 12 years. She speaks no English and we speak only Vietnamese. Of course I teach her a bit of English. Her ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
Been a member for 3-weeks with one post and wants to make changes.This still begs the question. Is there a way to create a poll on this site?Poles are born; not made...Polls are a form of diarrhea It may be present alone or be associated with ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
I'm still kicking and learning. Just got back from another wedding. The joy expressed at having a foreigner attend a country wedding is humbling. As usual my Vietnamese was appreciated even if not understood. Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
My 2 cents: yesterday a gloomy, tense looking woman asked me if I spoke Vietnamese. I said that I didn't. Her response was a broad smile of pure delight and relief.But what language were each of you using?Sorry for not making that clear: ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
I think it may be inactive because of the recent dearth of foreigners. I sometimes suggest to foreigners to read this post so they can find comfort in not being able to communicate with Vietnamese residents. I still struggle with the dichotomy that ... Read More
Buy Farmland in Vietnam by Lau9191
Hello, I would like to know how works if I want to buy a farmland with a house, What areas could be the best ones near beach? My idea is to grow cows and pigs or anysuggestion to another countrie? many thanks,
Wow! It seems my desire to protect my wifes' standard of living (She is a farmer with Rubber and Longan trees) has created quite a puzzle. Because I am much older than her I will die sooner than her under normal circumstances and she will have a ... Read More
Buy Farmland in Vietnam by Lau9191
Hello, I would like to know how works if I want to buy a farmland with a house, What areas could be the best ones near beach? My idea is to grow cows and pigs or anysuggestion to another countrie? many thanks,
Drutter - Current history: In Vietnam for 13 years, am a retired Canadian, bought the rural land and house about four years ago in wife's name. Legally married for 2 years. We were content to live together and had done for four years but law ... Read More
Buy Farmland in Vietnam by Lau9191
Hello, I would like to know how works if I want to buy a farmland with a house, What areas could be the best ones near beach? My idea is to grow cows and pigs or anysuggestion to another countrie? many thanks,
Thanks Drutter. I will have a will drawn up for the, "just in case" scenario and hope I never need to use it. Read More
Buy Farmland in Vietnam by Lau9191
Hello, I would like to know how works if I want to buy a farmland with a house, What areas could be the best ones near beach? My idea is to grow cows and pigs or anysuggestion to another countrie? many thanks,
Thanks everyone for the input. It seems, if my wife dies before me, I will be homeless. Most of her family don't care much for me and are predatory. In the natural order of things I will die long before my wife and I dearly hope that is the way ... Read More
insect invasion - start of rainy season by sanooku
Last year the day the rainy season started we had large swaths of firefly type insect invade the building. They came in through the windows and was mostly attracted by the light it seemed. I don't know if this is because we are somewhat in the ...
Yes the start of the rainy season brings an onslaught of new insect types; some of them pretty big. Some of them very noisy. Read More
Settle down in Quy Nhon by Cuoc song dep
Hi all, currently stucked abroad but lived for some years in Vietnam. Now looking for infos about Quy Nhon : I was told that foreigners can't live in any area they choose in QN but are parked in condos... Does anyone have infos / can ...
I've been here 13 years and the ability of a foreigner to rent is completely up to the police. If there is a change in personal there can be a change in permission to occupy. Some police will not grant permission to rent without a substantial ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
But what language were each of you using? Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
ThunderMan Even though your English is not too bad, I understand what you are trying to say. I spent several years in Saigon and many years in the country. Vietnamese people are often very nice and welcoming but it is irritating that they think I ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
After obsessing about this conundrum for more than a decade I have noticed that tones have absolutely nothing to do with Vietnamese failing to understand their own language spoken by a native English speaker. It is the sound produced by another race ... Read More
Buy Farmland in Vietnam by Lau9191
Hello, I would like to know how works if I want to buy a farmland with a house, What areas could be the best ones near beach? My idea is to grow cows and pigs or anysuggestion to another countrie? many thanks,
She can indicate in her will of her wish to pass the property to whomever she chooses. Here's the information: Thanks for the information! I notice there is no mention if the spouse is a foreigner. In any case we will get wills made. Read More
Buy Farmland in Vietnam by Lau9191
Hello, I would like to know how works if I want to buy a farmland with a house, What areas could be the best ones near beach? My idea is to grow cows and pigs or anysuggestion to another countrie? many thanks,
I bought my wife some land with a small house on it. The adjoining land and house she had before we were married is our main residence. I am considerably older than her so will probably die first. But if she died before me what would happen to the ... Read More
Can a foreigner travel by motorbike to Saigon by I do believe
Can a foreigner travel by motorbike to Saigon from Tay Ninh to renew visa without trouble at checkpoints ? April 16th
Something is not adding up; I also have a house in Hoa Thanh with my wife and she thinks I have to go to Saigon because my DL visa has expired and I need a new TRC visa. My previous TRC was confiscated without explanation by immigration.We married ... Read More
Can a foreigner travel by motorbike to Saigon by I do believe
Can a foreigner travel by motorbike to Saigon from Tay Ninh to renew visa without trouble at checkpoints ? April 16th
I can't believe all the nonsensical replies to my question! Vaneric has some reasonable suggestions although I am always directed to Saigon by the Tay Ninh authorities. Anyway, for anybody interested, yes you can travel from Tay Ninh to Saigon ... Read More
Can a foreigner travel by motorbike to Saigon by I do believe
Can a foreigner travel by motorbike to Saigon from Tay Ninh to renew visa without trouble at checkpoints ? April 16th
Moc Bai is closed.So... what does Moc Bai have to do with it? Tay Ninh is in Vietnam, not Cambodia.Ask a simple question......... Why is English so difficult for many English speakers? Why do so few know that Tay Ninh is in Vietnam? An easier ... Read More
Can a foreigner travel by motorbike to Saigon
Can a foreigner travel by motorbike to Saigon from Tay Ninh to renew visa without trouble at checkpoints ? April 16th Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
Tai Zen I read your lengthy thoughts, and was surprised at your take. I have lived here for 12 years, am married to a Vietnamese woman and interact with Vietnamese at all levels. "Saving face" is not an Asian thing as is commonly thought. ... Read More
Anyone have any further info on this upcoming tourist visa change? by qnbui
From what I've read and heard, it affects tourist visas over 30 days and you have to get re-stamped every 30 days. Could drive away expats from VN like the Thai laws that are driving away expats in Thailand. Hopefully it doesn't affect most ...
Where can I find a reliable agent in Saigon? Read More
Foreigner Married to Vietnamese National: Visa Options? by I do believe
I have just married a Vietnamese woman and currently am on a 3 month tourist visa. Can anyone clarify what I have to do or can do Visa wise?
Thanks - the deed is done. Read More
Foreigner Married to Vietnamese National: Visa Options?
I have just married a Vietnamese woman and currently am on a 3 month tourist visa. Can anyone clarify what I have to do or can do Visa wise? Read More
Anyone have any further info on this upcoming tourist visa change? by qnbui
From what I've read and heard, it affects tourist visas over 30 days and you have to get re-stamped every 30 days. Could drive away expats from VN like the Thai laws that are driving away expats in Thailand. Hopefully it doesn't affect most ...
On a recent two day trip to Malaysia, Vietnam immigration stripped me of my two year TRC visa and issued me with a three month tourist visa. Now I don't qualify for a driver's licence and recently the bank cancelled my savings account. I ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
sanooku Pretty advanced question but since most Vietnamese don't understand Vietnamese I doubt you will get a usable answer. Read More
New banking rules for foreigners by Guest2023
Anyone seen the new banking rules that may come in. This was a reply from a guy who deals in these matters: [b]"Banking laws have changed that any savings accounts will only be accessible to those with a minimum 12 month ...
I went in to the DongA bank today to withdraw money to pay my rent. I have dealt with this bank for 12 years. They said I had to close my account and they gave me the balance in cash. I explained that I don't want to carry 100 million on my ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
Of course written Vietnamese works but just try communicating in your language in writing - not realistic when you want a conversation. I try a variety of methods and have some success especially if the Vietnamese person realizes you are trying to ... Read More
Their habit of canceling appointments at the shortest of notices by KruChris
Do you know what I'm taking about? Be that the day job or the dinner date. Suddenly "a Yoga teacher" has been booked at the same time or whatever. Or you invite [b]a person[/b] and she will invite [i]others, too[/i] Q: is that to ...
I agree - way too much censorship with a dose of personal liberal bias from this mod. If my soap box is removed I will stop my speeches. Read More
EXPAT.COM gathering in Saigon - Thursday, June 6 by Helene
Hello all! :cheers: How about we meet up after work? On popular demand, Expat.com and our ambassador, Rodolphe, organize for you a new event at In SaiGong in Saigon on [b]Thursday, June 6th, from 6.30pm.[/b] For this occasion, In Saigon will ...
"Share drinks"? It's always about the booze. Why? It is possible to enjoy people and environment without alcohol. Took me decades to figure that out. I know that juvenile minds comfortable in their immortality will disagree. Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
cafengocmy is right about most of it but he is so old it is hard to believe he can be so eloquent. Sometimes I get so angry with the blank look in many Vietnameses' eyes when I am speaking Vietnamese that I find myself screaming at them, ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a Canadian, American or Australian? What I am asking is why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a Caucasian? Perhaps this question could be applied to other foreigners trying ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
There is an interesting discussion on the news today; apparently when an artificial voice says "yanni" other people hear "laurel" and vice versa. This strange phenomena could be part of a Vietnamese's inability to understand ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
I was in a supermarket in Go Vap yesterday and noticed two attractive young ladies probably in their 20’s. They were dressed in form fitting uniforms of their respective beer companies. As I walked by they asked in unison if I wanted to buy ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
I have been in the country for several years and speak some Vietnamese. I have been working on my pronunciation for some time. Why do some people understand everything I say and others nothing. I have been on this forum before and have not received ...
Now I have been in Vietnam 10 years but don't feel that my Vietnamese has improved much in the last few years. I rarely speak English and get by with what I have. I still get frustrated when I am not understood but still enjoy trying to figure ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
Now I have been in Vietnam 10 years but don't feel that my Vietnamese has improved much in the last few years. I rarely speak English and get by with what I have. I still get frustrated when I am not understood but still enjoy trying to figure ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner?
I have been in the country for several years and speak some Vietnamese. I have been working on my pronunciation for some time. Why do some people understand everything I say and others nothing. I have been on this forum before and have not received ... Read More
Are native English teachers better than Vietnamese English teachers? by I do believe
This is the subject of debate in every ESL teacher forum I have ever visited. Logic would state that, yes, when it comes to teaching something, those who are experts are better qualified, and who could be better qualified to teach English than those ...
QuidProQuo said, "YouTube is the best teacher out of them all." I often visit different English language posts on YouTube and Facebook and the number of mistakes on-line is amazing. I think most sites are authored by non-native speakers, ... Read More
20L Water container delivery by GuestPoster0147
Hi. I am new in Ho Chi Minh City and would ask about a drinking water delivery service in Ho Chi Minh City. Are there difference in water quality (microbes) and quality of delivery service and prices? Thank you.
I have to laugh at all this angst over drinking water. I was a waterworks operator for several years and in fact operated the largest water treatment facility in the Southern Hemisphere for awhile. I also spent 6 months in Toronto being trained on ... Read More
i looking a big heart by Miu nguyen
hi everyone ! someone here is a doctor ? or can help to a doctor ?? where the future for someone sick and no have family ...
It truly is amazing what many girls will do for the opportunity to shake down a trusting foreigner. I had one woman work on me for 7 years; she finally found a way to get me to lower my guard and what an expensive lesson for me. Where do these women ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
It does mean "should" but it's a word that is so short and indistinct the sound never quite makes it to a Vietnamese person's brain even when used in context. I have tried perfecting the pronunciation of this word for years and to ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
Sharp AND witty. You are truly bilingual! Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
In this case, it's not a short form because "đợi" and "chờ" mean the exact same thing, and you can use either, both, or switch the order: chờ đợi = đợi chờ = chờ = ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
I find I have to make an effort not to use short forms or acronyms. I have difficulty interpreting spoken Vietnamese and then the speaker uses a short form which makes me go crazy. One of my friends said to me in Vietnamese, ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
Ciambella So, you are Bella. You said, "I speak pure Vietnamese with correct grammar and precise vocab." I would love to meet you but then you would find out what a fraud I am. Ha ha. By the way, why did you make up an improper ... Read More
Has anyone seen the 'taking back the sidewalk' initiative in D1 by QuidProQuo
Just caught a few clips from Youtube and I must say the whole thing seems like a publicity stunt from a guy who looks a lot like Kim Jong Un. They're going around parts of the city in D1 and hauling/towing away cars parking on the sidewalks and ...
Thanks VietCanada for succinctly articulating the situation. To the Vietnamese leaders and bureaucrats I would like to say, "Stop Americanizing my Vietnam! Stop punishing the poor to push an artificial agenda." Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
Having lived in Vietnam for 10 years and studied Vietnamese for a few months at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they ... Read More
Has anyone seen the 'taking back the sidewalk' initiative in D1 by QuidProQuo
Just caught a few clips from Youtube and I must say the whole thing seems like a publicity stunt from a guy who looks a lot like Kim Jong Un. They're going around parts of the city in D1 and hauling/towing away cars parking on the sidewalks and ...
Stop cleaning up the sidewalks. Vietnam doesn't need to be gentrified; I like it the way it was. Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
I have lived in Vietnam for 10 years and I admit to a limited vocabulary in Vietnamese as well as poor pronunciation of many words. But all the various explanations of why Vietnamese don't recognize their own language are only partially correct ... Read More
Motor bike licence by Nashygallen
Hi can anyone help me get this Chris
Licence is tied to the length of your visa. Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
cảm ơn rất nhiều is 'thanks very much in English and is not necessary; cảm ơn - is fine. my question is; who is telling you this? Read More
Dating I HCMC by jinxedta
Okay Just throwing this out there. FYI (i'm not lookiong for anyone on here i know this is not a dating site) Just some advice. I've been here in HCMC for a few months, I only have one question Where are all the good girls in this town. I've ...
I am an old guy who likes socializing with young girls about 22 to 35. I am not rich but don't have to work for a living. I have a few girls (women - ladies) who are friends that I can go to the cinema with or just enjoy a meal with. I like to ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
Ollie Agar - good post. You speak much better than I do. I still meet Vietnamese who are smart and educated but simply cannot recognize their own language. They truly seem mentally deficient. I can repeat the word or words several times in a ... Read More
Good recommendation Hospital and Clinic in HCM by Dannytan
Hi All, I had a bad experience last year while coming to Vietnam. Got on the plane and felt really sick and have to be admitted to hcm hospital. The next day fever and headache, and stomach pain did not go away so decided to catch a plane back to ...
This year is 2017 and Vietnam is not some backward 3rd world country. There are many quality medical facilities in every District. The speed and efficiency here is SUPERIOR to the US and Canada and at a bargain price. Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
Wxx3's musings are part of the answer although a little simplistic. Women seem to understand my lousy Vietnamese better than men. Why would that be? Type A personalities seem to have difficulty understanding as well. This topic has been around ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
I still often have trouble with Vietnamese understanding my Vietnamese and me understanding Vietnamese's Vietnamese. I continue to learn and practice Vietnamese but am learning at a disabled snail's pace. One of the off putting things I ... Read More
Running red lights, no helmets.. westerners??!?! by Wald0
http://hanoiiplus.com/chuyen-chang-tay-o-ha-noi-nguoi-viet-bao-toi-cu-vuot-den/ What do you think..? Personally I think you should be shot! you respect laws in your own country but when you come here you just flip them finger.. this helmet ...
Yes, you are right the average Vietnamese driver would be in jail in the West for driving like they do here. The average Western driver should be in jail for the way they drive here. In Canada we have a lot of Chinese immigrants and there is an old ... Read More
Running red lights, no helmets.. westerners??!?! by Wald0
http://hanoiiplus.com/chuyen-chang-tay-o-ha-noi-nguoi-viet-bao-toi-cu-vuot-den/ What do you think..? Personally I think you should be shot! you respect laws in your own country but when you come here you just flip them finger.. this helmet ...
"You'd be hopeless in New York (though the traffic there is just as slow) and especially anywhere in Australia." I'm a Canadian and drove there for about 45 years including forays to New York city, Washington DC etc. I lived for a ... Read More
Running red lights, no helmets.. westerners??!?! by Wald0
http://hanoiiplus.com/chuyen-chang-tay-o-ha-noi-nguoi-viet-bao-toi-cu-vuot-den/ What do you think..? Personally I think you should be shot! you respect laws in your own country but when you come here you just flip them finger.. this helmet ...
I have seen a few (3) foreigners who have learned how to drive in Saigon (Vietnam) and robvan has it right. So many foreigners think they can drive just like back home. You can; but will only survive by the skill of every other driver. Eventually a ... Read More
Running red lights, no helmets.. westerners??!?! by Wald0
http://hanoiiplus.com/chuyen-chang-tay-o-ha-noi-nguoi-viet-bao-toi-cu-vuot-den/ What do you think..? Personally I think you should be shot! you respect laws in your own country but when you come here you just flip them finger.. this helmet ...
Most expats embarrass me, not because of their driving but because they think it's cool to be drunk and obnoxious. 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 ...
What is the best city to live in in Vietnam? This is like the question, "Who is right in the Palestinian/Israeli situation?" The answer is they are both right. Vietnam has a certain sameness to it regardless of where you go, so the ... Read More
Visa extensions
I've lost my contact for getting a visa. Does anyone know of a "reputable" agent, coffee shop or travel agent that is truly knowledgeable? Read More
Banking Warning by ancientpathos
Greetings, Just thought I would share an experience. Went into Vietcom bank in Da Nang to get 60 million dong from my account in the USA. My visa debit card has my middle initial instead of my full middle name. Yep they took the money out of my ...
eodmatt - Joss is a French native and it is obvious English is not his first language. I read the exchange and I agree with you it was pretty straight forward. Whatever your native language there will always be those things that are accepted as it ... Read More
Canadian Salmon Burgers in a narrow lane off Phan Xich Long. Phu Nhuan by DirtyPierre
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With the fall in the Canadian dollar I'm sure the price of the salmon burger will come down. Read More
Danger From Islamic Extremist? by Revolutionary
Any information about the dangers from these groups in Vietnam? I could not find any information pertaining to Vietnam on the passport site in the USA while they did have information on several other countries.
@kenjee You may prefer not to talk about religious or political issues but everyone else does. Why wouldn't we expats not talk about it? Who can we discuss these things with? Kenjee, perhaps you have not noticed a new trend slowly working its ... Read More
Danger From Islamic Extremist? by Revolutionary
Any information about the dangers from these groups in Vietnam? I could not find any information pertaining to Vietnam on the passport site in the USA while they did have information on several other countries.
i read a report in the newspaper that 93% of black people in Vietnam are engaged in criminal activities. This was a government conclusion after doing a study. In Canada or America this report would not be allowed even if true. What I'm saying ... Read More
Traffic incident by PhucDatBiet
Got into a minor fender bender today. I was riding grab bike and my driver had to stop hard to avoid hitting another biker ahead of us who also made a sudden stop. Then a girl and her mom hit us from behind in full force. They got the nerves to ...
The absence of road rage here is truly a blessing and I think it tells us something of the "American/Canadian" mind set versus the Vietnamese. Multiculturalism and the nanny state mentality in Canada has spawned this terrible social ill. ... Read More
Traffic incident by PhucDatBiet
Got into a minor fender bender today. I was riding grab bike and my driver had to stop hard to avoid hitting another biker ahead of us who also made a sudden stop. Then a girl and her mom hit us from behind in full force. They got the nerves to ...
Well said! But by reading some of the comments, there are some grasshoppers who should think about this quote, “The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.” ― Albert Einstein Read More
Traffic incident by PhucDatBiet
Got into a minor fender bender today. I was riding grab bike and my driver had to stop hard to avoid hitting another biker ahead of us who also made a sudden stop. Then a girl and her mom hit us from behind in full force. They got the nerves to ...
I agree with many of snakes comments and the key observation is they are getting better. I remember driving in Canada and cursing other drivers all the time. Incompetent drivers are in all countries. The one thing that irritates the hell out of me ... Read More
A chance to improve English ( you like to join ? ) by elena2710
Hi everybody ! I am an English teacher. I would like to host a get-together for English learners who like to improve communication skill. We will speak English during the conversation. Just like a chance to make friends and together become more ...
elena2710 - Your English needs work, here is how I would write your post; Hi everybody! I am an English teacher, I would like to host a get-together for English learners who would like to improve their communication skills. We will only speak ... Read More
Traffic incident by PhucDatBiet
Got into a minor fender bender today. I was riding grab bike and my driver had to stop hard to avoid hitting another biker ahead of us who also made a sudden stop. Then a girl and her mom hit us from behind in full force. They got the nerves to ...
There are some stupid inconsiderate drivers here just the same as there are in Canada, America, Europe and Australia. Other than the young speedsters and the everpresent ignorant drivers most drivers are very good. The average driver and the traffic ... Read More
A reminder to be careful driving. by Adhome01
HCMC police look for car in hit-and-run that kills Danish businessman. http://www.thanhniennews.com/society/hcmc-police-look-for-car-in-hitandrun-that-kills-danish-businessman-53396.html
ThaoBrewster said - Avoiding suicidal drivers is probebly the hardest thing about living in Vietnam. When turning onto a main road why don't the Vietnamese ever look to see if it's clear. I just don't understand the insanity of this ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
You have got to be joking. I prefaced with the Vietnamese version of the Iliad. Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
What happened to hELLnoi? he appears to have deleted all his posts? Today I went to a hospital on Phan Xich Long to get my teeth checked by an English speaking dentist. Turns out her English consists of, "Hello, how are you?" No problem, ... Read More
What do you like the most in Vietnam? by Christine
Hi, Living abroad, expats discover and enjoy a new environment. What do you like the most in Vietnam? What seduced you when settling and living here? Share with us your favorite part of living in Vietnam and the reason why you enjoy ...
It's true there are many beautiful women in Vietnam but there are even more not so beautiful (to be kind). I am attracted to Asian women because of their Asian facial features especially the eyes. I like shorter women or perhaps I should say I ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
Cảm ơn rất nhiều is not necessary at all. It means - thanks a lot. If you say "cảm ơn" (thanks) leaving a distinct but short space between the two words - everybody will understand. Here in Saigon they ... Read More
Learn vietnamese by Gerard1234
For years i am working in Vietnam but I never had the time to study vietnamese. At my work all people speak good english and it is for me not necessary to speak any vietnamese. For some months I started to learn vietnamese because outside my work it ...
I'd like to improve my Vietnamese which is pretty basic right now. The problem is I don't want to pay for lessons and I can't just meet a Native Vietnamese speaker because they don't know the fundamentals of teaching. In clear ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
The more I deal with this topic the more convoluted the solution to the problem seems to be. There have been some great suggestions on the oddity of Vietnamese unable to understand Foreigner Vietnamese and it appears it will always be so. As my ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
I replied to you on a private message. You should also know that there are expat meetings every month. Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
Bad news for you Ngattt, soon you will be looking back and saying what happened to all the years? Stop and take time to smell the roses. Make time to live life rather than riding an express train to the end of the line. Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
I was teaching part time 6 days a week at my home until this month. I suddenly realized the demand and my attempt to fill it had me trapped into a routine that had ceased to be fun. I'm supposed to be retired. So now I volunteer growing ... Read More
What do you like the most in Vietnam? by Christine
Hi, Living abroad, expats discover and enjoy a new environment. What do you like the most in Vietnam? What seduced you when settling and living here? Share with us your favorite part of living in Vietnam and the reason why you enjoy ...
You forgot to mention how the VN members outnumber the expats considerably. then we get the " expats " that would " like " to live here with their expert advice from their short visits. And talking about " Experts ", ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
Ai Ho Em khỏe không? Read More
What do you like the most in Vietnam? by Christine
Hi, Living abroad, expats discover and enjoy a new environment. What do you like the most in Vietnam? What seduced you when settling and living here? Share with us your favorite part of living in Vietnam and the reason why you enjoy ...
What do you like the most in Vietnam? Christine we have a problem. The wanna be heres and the don't wanna be heres are not in sync. The five minute expats outnumber the lifers. I learned something today, some expats don't want to be here. I ... Read More
What are your favourite food in Saigon ? by toonblake
Saigon has something so special I can't explain. Like you wander for a while and see lots of things to try, from the street food to the luxury restaurants. So tell me what are your favourite food in Saigon you would try immediatly ?
So tell me what are your favourite foods in Saigon you would try immediately? -or- So tell me what is your favourite food in Saigon you would try immediately? bánh tráng Read More
What do you like the most in Vietnam? by Christine
Hi, Living abroad, expats discover and enjoy a new environment. What do you like the most in Vietnam? What seduced you when settling and living here? Share with us your favorite part of living in Vietnam and the reason why you enjoy ...
1. The weather 2. The people especially phụ nữ 3. The food 4. Cost of living 5. $10 cost of getting caught speeding (60 kph on the main highway is speeding except near VungTau) 6. Not requiring permits for every little thing (I am ... Read More
Volunteering in Vietnam by Maximilien
Hi, While living abroad, some expats wish to get involved in the local community life. What organizations expats can turn to if they want to volunteer in Vietnam? How to join a charitable institution, what are the steps? Which causes ...
phuclelh - have you done this before? Seems to me might be some logistical hurdles. Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
I think some foreigner's comments here mean to say: Vietnamese don't try to understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner, they don't pay attention, and don't try to figure out what a foreigner is trying to say. We Vietnamese can ... Read More