phil
@gobot
American expat in Vietnam
Forum posts
1430
Contacts
17
About me
American, Married
Lives in Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh
Speaks American (sorry not English), learning Vietnamese slowly by osmosis which actually doesn't work.
Registration: 17 January 2014
traveller check by brianAFSER73
does anyone still use traveller check while overseas. do local viet bank honor them. just curious, rather than carrying cash, lest it stolen or lost.
Your home page says you are American, so get a Charles Schwab bank account. You have to open an investment account too, but it can be empty. Excellent for international travel and living. Keep your money in the US. Use ATMs anywhere, even in ... Read More
ATM with Foreign Card by Bill2014
Which is the best bank ATM in Vietnam to use with a foreign MasterCard? In other words which bank gives the best exchange rate and the lowest fee?
@OceanBeach92107What am amazingly complete answer, OB. I don't remember seeing that info before. Good work. 👌I lucked out joining the Schwab Team before I came here.-@gobot Maybe the 2nd smartest thing you've done, P? ... Read More
Marriage in Vietnam by IamCharlie
I'm planning on marrying my Vietnamese fiance soon, and I was wondering what costs I'm looking at. I know people are going to charge whatever but I don't want to be completely ripped off. So if anyone can give me an idea of what the marriage ...
@OceanBeach92107 thanks so much!!!! I'll just do it while I'm over there! Any specific location you reccomend for foreigners to do? -@tracydinh1988The place in Saigon is in District 5.Search Google map: Bệnh viện Tâm ... Read More
ATM with Foreign Card by Bill2014
Which is the best bank ATM in Vietnam to use with a foreign MasterCard? In other words which bank gives the best exchange rate and the lowest fee?
@OceanBeach92107What am amazingly complete answer, OB. I don't remember seeing that info before. Good work. 👌I lucked out joining the Schwab Team before I came here. Read More
Dating in Vietnam- different types of women by VnTeacher3
I'm seeing more and more thicker/bbw type women in Vietnam these days, but few seem to be on the dating sites. I tried hitting up a clerk directly but got shot down brutally. Don't know if this is even done here. Obviously they are still ...
Hey Bobby I'll offer my 2000 VND, American having lived in Vietnam 8 years and married to a Vietnamese I met here. I live in central Saigon in a poor Vietnamese-only district. I am stared at every day, and charmed by kids who run up to me to squeak ... Read More
Dental Crown in HCMC by Wxx3
I'm debating whether to have a crown down in HCMC or the USA. But the USA can be a PIA because I would need to return to my dentist in NYC and I'm in California. Any suggestions, comments or experiences?
I don't know Nicolas, but FYI I am having a crown done now. It is a rear molar, had old filling with a cavity inside. First I went for an exam and cleaning, cost $70. They added xrays for $35, and spotted the cavity.The porcelan crown and labor is ... Read More
PO Box HCM? by lilybnt
Hello I’m from Australia and will be in HCM in 2024 for Tet. I want to purchase some ao dai but the shipping fee is too high to send to Australia.Is there any way for me to open a PO Box in HCM as a foreigner to have all my ao dai sent there ...
@lilybntYou can't ask the shop to just hold them for you? I assume custom made. Read More
Buying laptop in Vietnam by danrodri
Hi. Are laptops at fair price in Vietnam? Or overpriced in general? Can one get a decent selection of different laptops? Thxs for any thoughts.
Yeah I wouldn't go to the D5 electronics market. It's a mess. Picture a wet market, with cables and boxes and old stuffs.In case Klmeermpt666 is still around, District 1 has a computer street for windows computers and parts, they might have used ... Read More
Merry Christmas from the US by SteinNebraska
Jason is now three months old! [img]https://i.imgur.com/w30TtV2.jpg[/img]
American born! Congrats Read More
New Foreign English Teachers Requirements Decision 4159/QD-BGDDT by Aidan in HCMC
Aspiring English teachers to Vietnam, take note.As of Dec6th/2023, new regulations regarding foreigner's eligibility to teach English in Vietnam.Applies to native speakers (English language) with a college degree or higher, foreigners with a college ...
I found this rather odd as I can’t understand many native speakers from most on the list? -@TaurusTigerThe 7 A-list countries: England, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, USA, South Africa.I agree. I can understand the Canadian ... Read More
Sending Love to Andy by SimCityAT
It has come to our attention that AndyHCMC is not well. Let's hope he is well soon
Who's Andy? ok i'm going now Read More
Dentist to clean Peridontal pockets where in VN? by narcrepellant2525
I have peridontal pockets which needs to be cleaned and drained, anybody has experience with good dentist who can do that in VN?
I will personally stay away from dentists oriented towards foreigners - mostly its rip off operation with average (if you are lucky) or below average workmanship. Westcoast..is there tons of people there on daily base, locals and foreigners? ... Read More
Buy basmati rice in dalat by trieutu
HelloDo you know any indian store in dalat to buy basmati rice? or any place in dalatThank you
The short comings of province life - lots of delicious basmati in Saigon! Read More
International transfer of money by Sunil Lau
Can someone suggest which bank does international transactions. I would like to open a bank account to send a portion of my salary to my bank in South Africa. Any suggestion or comments.
My friends Vietnamese wife and I went to her bank in Hanoi and deposited it and then my friend wire transferred the money for me from an account he had in the US.Ha! That is how the Vietnamese shops in California do currency transfers, family ... Read More
Help getting Epilepsy medication in Vietnam by Noelwastaken
Hey everyone.I recently moved to Vietnam to teach English and I’ve been here almost 3 months. I’ve been staying in one of the Northern provinces and now I’m living in Hanoi (just over a week).when I moved here I could only bring 3 ...
OB knows his stuff! The good news is that most drugs don't need prescriptions in Vietnam. The bad news is that some drugs are not available, in particular modern drugs. Read More
VinaTaxi Warning by DaveTonetti
This has happened to me in the past, but I have not done anything about it. Yesterday, from the airport, a VinaTaxi driver, first of all tried to charge me 30,000 vnd for the airport exit fee. The real fee is 10,000. Then I noticed he had not turned ...
I never heard of Vintaxi.Vinasun taxi also has an app that works the same as Grab app. I use both for cars. Sometimes one is cheaper than the other.I prefer Vinasun taxi drivers because they know the city. More professional, and the cars are ... Read More
Searching for a Quiet Safe Uncrowded Bike Route Around Saigon by James Liu
Has anyone found a paved bike path around Saigon? Could be within 1 hour or 90 mins by car from D1. I'm looking to ride for a few hours but prefer paved paths and no off road gravel. Looking for suggestions for a Christmas holiday ride with friends. ...
I never bought a bicycle because the roads are crap. The only place that comes to mind is a short route in Phu My Hung. (If you don't know the area, use google map.)From Nguyễn Văn Linh, peddle south on Nguyễn Đức ... Read More
Dating Vietnamese Girl by Bill2014
What are the cultural expectations for a foreigner dating a Vietnamese girl ?
@jayrozzetti23 Correct. My wife had interviews like that. Like there was a guy who needed a mother for his daughter ... kept hounding her. Read More
Dating Vietnamese Girl by Bill2014
What are the cultural expectations for a foreigner dating a Vietnamese girl ?
@S. Johnson City girls are different? I wouldn't generalize. Why do you think Saigon becomes a ghost town at Tet? Because of all the province people who moved here for jobs, go home. Also, I claim that all wealthy Vietnamese come from powerful ... Read More
Speaking Vietnamese by Emerald Bay77554
Is anyone here fluent? How long did it take to become fluent and what method worked best for picking up the language?
I think written language is doable. Memorize 2000 words probably enough.Conversation - a long time ago, I heard the best path was to attend University of Social Sciences and Humanities and take courses taught in English. I suggest you try a class, ... Read More
Loosing Face vietnamese family by Zephyron
Hello everyone,Im Zepyhron from germany and I wanna tell you my tragic story.I was this march traveling for 16 days to HCMC. I was met there my vietnamese girlfriend for first time in real life. We know each other from a german-vietnamese friend, he ...
I guess OP Zephyron is not coming back. Piece of work. 🤦♂️I wanted to tell him his German friend is an ass, his friend's wife is the stereotypical Asian manipulator that guys worry about, and you don't fall in love in 2 ... Read More
New members of the Vietnam forum, introduce yourselves here - 2023 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Vietnam forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
Question: Do all these @names generate notifications to users? For example, someone types @gobot in a message, expecting that gobot will receive an email and/or internal msg about the posting. This works in Reddit, I didn't notice it working before ... Read More
Recognize this guy? by mikedylan2001
https://tuoitrenews.vn/news/society/20230524/vandal-caught-defacing-downtown-ho-chi-minh-city-shop-in-cctv-footage/73315.html
Old people call it vandalism. Owners of shops call it vandalism. Police do nothing, just an annoyance to them. Millennials and genx regard it as "street art", and beautiful, and laud hero artists. It has been mainstreamed as "graffiti", Italian word ... Read More
How can I plan a safe trip to Vietnam ? by mikedellgolf
@Julien I am a 21 years old male and I plan to take a trip to Vietnam in May '23 and stay there for six months before coming back to the US and starting my professional career. I plan on playing a lot of golf and tennis while I am in Vietnam ...
Allow my to butt in on your life with some observations. That's what we do on this forum, it won't hurt much!I realize you are 21 and haven't had much experience with money and what you know about Vietnam is from your American family who have old ... Read More
Is Vaccine for Shingles available in Hanoi? by Lastly Vn
How any of you received Shinrix which is the vaccine for Shingles? Is it available in Hanoi?
@THIGV Ok, I'll let her know about Shingrix. It wasn't available in Thailand last year. She actually had an outbreak when she was 40, got a chain of stinging spots on her neck. Young for an occurrence, as the shot is recommended for 50 y.o. up. Read More
Post-Covid-19 situation in Vietnam by Mickael
Hello everyone, [b]The COVID-19 pandemic[/b] had a huge impact on the world, including on expats' lives. Travel restrictions, business closures, budget cuts, and health measures have created unprecedented challenges for those who have chosen to ...
@Dave_611 🤦♂️ A bit harsh, no? So polarized the world now. Read More
Is Vaccine for Shingles available in Hanoi? by Lastly Vn
How any of you received Shinrix which is the vaccine for Shingles? Is it available in Hanoi?
Just a FYI on this thread, my wife could not get any shingles vaccine in Saigon last year. We went to Thailand and got her Zostavax at Mahidol university hospital, Shingrix was not available. She didn't need a prescription, just showed up at clinic. Read More
Banks with the largest ATM Withdrawal Limits by GuestPoster2469
Can somebody please tell me which banks offer the highest ATM withdrawal amount (so I can cut down on fees)? My understanding is that the fees I will be charged if I take money out from an overseas debit card are the local bank's ATM fee, a margin ...
I pretty much stopped using the debit card. Hassle with all the foreign banks (with decent daily withdrawal rules) that have closed over the years (Commonwealth, Anza) and closing locations (HSBC). Also the habit was encouraged during the Great ... Read More
Suburbs with relative calm, green space, modern affordable apartments? by dustanddirtofheaven
I have to make a choice to take a job in one of the following areas:Di AnThu DauBien HoaBinh ChanhGo VapBinh TanHoc MonDistrict 12Cu ChiThu DucDistrict 8I'm not much for nightlife and I'm mainly concerned with having a spacious, modern, quiet, ...
Yo Dusty. Congratulations on the job prospects. English teacher?I've lived in D8 for years. Which building, please?In the nicest terms, I describe D8 as an inner city neighborhood between 15 and 30 minutes to D1 depending. There are some rural parts ... Read More
Expat.com time machine
I just remembered I haven't visited forum for a month.And it turns out,I didn't miss anything!Every thread I opened (they redirect into my email folder) is dated 2018, 2013, 2020, ...Hey Expat.com, fix this ancient bug please, you are STILL emailing ... Read More
Off Topic Posts - Whats on your mind? by SimCityAT
This thread is for everything Off-topic..........[img align=C]https://www.askideas.com/media/13/Burning-Whats-Up-Gif-Picture.gif[/img]
Amazing. 🤯Before I even clicked to open this Off Topic Post, my bad-Joke-dar started ringing. 🙉 Read More
SGN airport by CHRISLANGTON
Anyone traveled internationally from SGN recently? The official advice is get there 3 hours ahead of time, which seems unnecessarily cautious. Is 2 hours reasonable?
When I flew out in July, albeit more busy during the summer months I got there 2.5 hours early and had to rush to the gate as it was already half boarded. It took 1.5 hours just to get the ticket and then another hour for security/customs. I'm going ... Read More
Determining Legitimate Owner/Lesee of Property, Phu Quoc by Aidan in HCMC
I'm negotiating with a local about purchasing some additional land here in Phu Quoc. He tells me that he has not yet received the "Red Card" (Pink Card?) for the land from city officials.Anyone familiar with the steps to take to determine who holds ...
My understanding FWIW: If the seller does not have the pink book, someone else holds it, and that means either (a) proper paperwork was never recorded(b) the seller is a crook or at least taking usual Vietnamese shortcuts(c) there was a sale but the ... Read More
SGN airport by CHRISLANGTON
Anyone traveled internationally from SGN recently? The official advice is get there 3 hours ahead of time, which seems unnecessarily cautious. Is 2 hours reasonable?
When I flew out in July, albeit more busy during the summer months I got there 2.5 hours early and had to rush to the gate as it was already half boarded. It took 1.5 hours just to get the ticket and then another hour for ... Read More
Apartment search strategies in Saigon by GuestPoster2469
Hi EveryoneI'm moving to Saigon in about two weeks time, to work in Go Vap. I've lived in Tan Binh before so I have a good idea of the area. Last time I was able to find an apartment with an English speaking landlord just walking down the street ...
That sounds like a job for Vietnamese Spouse Read More
Expat.com article confused about cost of living in Vietnam by gobot
Did you get your expat.com email "Asian countries benefit from China's decline" ?Article titled "Which Asian countries are benefiting from China's loss of attractivity (sic) ?"[ Problem 2: the "link" feature in the editor is not working, nothing ...
...snip...Of course, living at the beach in the tropics eating fresh fruit and veg every day all-year round until you get kicked out for overstaying your visa may be better than living in your car in a crime-ridden city and shop-lifting processed ... Read More
Expat.com article confused about cost of living in Vietnam
Did you get your expat.com email "Asian countries benefit from China's decline" ?Article titled "Which Asian countries are benefiting from China's loss of attractivity (sic) ?"[ Problem 2: the "link" feature in the editor is not working, nothing ... Read More
Your Most Memorable Misheard or Misunderstood Vietnamese by Aidan in HCMC
There have been many for me, but my most memorable misunderstanding happened just after my arrival 5 years back. I had just started to venture out and about, and had made it a habit of stopping in at the corner store around the corner from my house ...
@gobotBad joke? Okay, here you go An American businessman goes to Vietnam on a business trip, but he hates Vietnamese food, so he asks the concierge at his hotel if there's any place around where he can get American food.The concierge tells him he's ... Read More
Your Most Memorable Misheard or Misunderstood Vietnamese by Aidan in HCMC
There have been many for me, but my most memorable misunderstanding happened just after my arrival 5 years back. I had just started to venture out and about, and had made it a habit of stopping in at the corner store around the corner from my house ...
A buddy of mine reminded me a couple of days ago of another instance where what I heard wasn't quite what it meant.I'm pretty good with numbers in VN now, but when I was first learning I constantly made a mistake with the number 4. I'd walk in to a ... Read More
Taxes on my Pension? Resident vs Non-Resident by Stillwater71
Hello! First time posting on here. I am an Educator down in Houston who is about 4 years from Full-Retirement and I will be receiving a Pension. Right after my retirement, I plan to fulfill my dream of teaching in Vietnam since I started teaching ...
USA and Vietnam tax worldwide income and exchange information. -@pogiwayneHmm. My Vietnamese wife works and her employment taxes are simply removed from her paycheck. She never files any tax form in Vietnam. You infer it is different for Americans ... Read More
New members of the Vietnam forum, introduce yourselves here - 2022 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Vietnam forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Nice of you to help your wife's country Read More
Question about cost of living in Vietnam post-COVID by WillyBaldy
Hello dear expat folks,So back in March 2020, I had to leave Vietnam in a rush as probably a few of you did when borders were closing and COVID was frightening. Well, COVID is still somewhat frightening, but we're more used to it. So, fast forward ...
Yeah, going to middle no where small market airport is where they hook me. I am going OMA SFO NRT SGN so still your flight, just adding one domestic leg which doubles the fare. -@SteinNebraskaThere is a short list of advantages of a California ... Read More
Question about cost of living in Vietnam post-COVID by WillyBaldy
Hello dear expat folks,So back in March 2020, I had to leave Vietnam in a rush as probably a few of you did when borders were closing and COVID was frightening. Well, COVID is still somewhat frightening, but we're more used to it. So, fast forward ...
Huh, just checked Kayak for one-stop RT SGN-SFO in October. ANA, JAL, Korean Air under $800 like old days. EVA & Cathay pricey tho. Read More
Your Most Memorable Misheard or Misunderstood Vietnamese by Aidan in HCMC
There have been many for me, but my most memorable misunderstanding happened just after my arrival 5 years back. I had just started to venture out and about, and had made it a habit of stopping in at the corner store around the corner from my house ...
Followup on my observation that Vietnamese shop owners are commonly taciturn with customers ...MisunderstandingIn my first month I lived in a Vietnamese neighborhood in Saigon's Binh Thanh district.I tried the local shops for this and that. I was ... Read More
Your Most Memorable Misheard or Misunderstood Vietnamese by Aidan in HCMC
There have been many for me, but my most memorable misunderstanding happened just after my arrival 5 years back. I had just started to venture out and about, and had made it a habit of stopping in at the corner store around the corner from my house ...
Well, it turned out that the shopkeeper wasn't saying to me at each visit "Come On!", but rather he was saying "Cảm ơn!".A Vietnamese saying thanks to a customer? That is very rare for me. I never expect it. I mean, I always say hello ... Read More
New 90 Day Tourist Visa Starting October 2022? by nscprez
Love to get some feedback, rumors or facts about the Vietnamese government moving to a 90 day tourist Visa starting in October 2022.
That's it? That's why I opened this post? No popcorn. 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 ...
Last night Harold (my cat) and his wife/sister were playing just outside the house with what I thought was a twig from one of the trees in our garden. Strange, I thought, as neither of them are in the least interested in inanimate cat toys, such is ... Read More
Marriage in Vietnam by Thanh6161
I’m supposed to get married in Vietnam because they would not let my fiancée into the US. After 2 years. What paperwork do I need to get married in Vietnam, I’m trying to retire there next year.
I’m supposed to get married in Vietnam because they would not let my fiancée into the US. After 2 years. What paperwork do I need to get married in Vietnam, I’m trying to retire there next year. -@Thanh6161One thing nobody ... Read More
Road rules... by Guestposter822
Just wondering if it's legal to turn right at a red light ? I've noticed that some Vietnamese stop and some go through the red light when turning right...
Perhaps VinFast (flush with profits from USA sales) could sponsor public education campaign in Vietnam ... with purpose of reducing traffic deaths and injuries -@Friday with MateoSales? Have they delivered any electric cars yet? I only see they are ... Read More
VN Foods perhaps Least Appealing to the Western Palate (or Psyche) by Aidan in HCMC
This thread is started for the benefit of new expat arrivals to Vietnam. Welcome, and, BON APPÉTIT!Your pick(s), with a pic(s), of Vietnamese food that would probably be least appealing to a western visitor.Here's two from me.Trứng ...
Hard to believe that dogs for the meat trade are mostly/all stolen in Vietnam. China and Korea have lots of dog farms. Dogs are easy to breed, and require a lot less space than hogs. I think that there hasn't been proper research of the subject. ... Read More
Road rules... by Guestposter822
Just wondering if it's legal to turn right at a red light ? I've noticed that some Vietnamese stop and some go through the red light when turning right...
Just wondering if it's legal to turn right at a red light ? I've noticed that some Vietnamese stop and some go through the red light when turning right... -@panda7Motorbikes, not cars:In 7 years I have never seen a motorbike stop at a red light, ... Read More
Off Topic Posts - Whats on your mind? by SimCityAT
This thread is for everything Off-topic..........[img align=C]https://www.askideas.com/media/13/Burning-Whats-Up-Gif-Picture.gif[/img]
Latest info on converting licences to VN licence.I went into licencing office in HCMC Tuesday 6th September with an Australian friend who has just renewed his VEC and came over last week.Instead of the normal VN licence lasting as long as TRC/VEC or ... Read More
If expat.com has helped you, please help by returning the favour by Aidan in HCMC
Many, many people have visited expat.com for advice, recommendations, and information regarding their potential expat endeavours.The team leaders, experts, advisors and members (like me) happily and freely offer whatever assistance we can. None of ...
So @Aidin' NOT in HCMC got a promotion? Ok that's cool. Read More
VN Foods perhaps Least Appealing to the Western Palate (or Psyche) by Aidan in HCMC
This thread is started for the benefit of new expat arrivals to Vietnam. Welcome, and, BON APPÉTIT!Your pick(s), with a pic(s), of Vietnamese food that would probably be least appealing to a western visitor.Here's two from me.Trứng ...
Everything listed above falls under the "no good reason to eat this" list. To me it seems most come from the background that necessity forces change and that years ago they had to eat what they could find or source, especially if they couldn't ... Read More
Off Topic Posts - Whats on your mind? by SimCityAT
This thread is for everything Off-topic..........[img align=C]https://www.askideas.com/media/13/Burning-Whats-Up-Gif-Picture.gif[/img]
Yayyyyyyy! #14 Travel + Leisure magazine 2022"Has an exotic mix of beaches, lakes, forests, and waterfalls. Also known for its delicious foods". (and as a bonus, home to Aidan!)(also close to my heart is #10) -@Aidan in HCMCSo sez bogus "Aidan in ... 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 ...
I do remember seeing worms in the toilet once or twice when I was a child, but that was before I became a health nut -@ChoculaDAw jeez, so GROSS!! Moderator HELP, this person just created a violent image. Make the forum a safe space. ... 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 ...
I do remember seeing worms in the toilet once or twice when I was a child, but that was before I became a health nut -@ChoculaDAw jeez, so GROSS!! Moderator HELP, this person just created a violent image. Make the forum a safe space. Read More
Marriage in Vietnam by Thanh6161
I’m supposed to get married in Vietnam because they would not let my fiancée into the US. After 2 years. What paperwork do I need to get married in Vietnam, I’m trying to retire there next year.
We signed our official documents this afternoon at the People's Committee in Quảng Ngãi.Our marriage is official.O.B.(husband of a Vietnamese citizen)-@OceanBeach92107Congrats Mr & Mrs O.B. Read More
Translation devices by billddavenport
I was thinking about buying a Pocket talk S. Anyone out there ever use one?Do they work with Vietnamese?
I have a translation device.Nearly 100% accurate.Expensive but there are side benefits. Read More
Vietnamese Name order by lightinumbrella4
Hello everyone,I'd like to know how to address a Vietnamese colleague via email when they are using three names? For example: 1Vu name2 name3 . Is the order similar to Chinese when the last name is presented first? For example is VU the ...
Pro rule -If the name starts with Nguyen, then his/her first name is the last one. If Nguyen is on the right side, then they already switched it western style.That covers most cases.I'd like to know how to address a Vietnamese ... Read More
Teaching Pro Bono Publico, Pro Gratis, or Privately (one on one) by Aidan in HCMC
What restrictions, if any, exist in VN for a foreigner to teach English "pro bono publico" (free, for the public good) and/or "pro gratis" (for the thanks alone)? Also, what of offering "one-on-one lessons" for a small fee?Are there Visas which are ...
Thank you for that, OB. My thoughts, precisely.The reason for my starting this thread was because my friend, visiting from Canada, had been approached by one of my neighbours asking whether he would be willing to give his son two or three lesson a ... Read More
Intro and other ways to land jobs in VietNam outside of TEFL by FrozenYak
Greetings!My story actually starts when my best friend, who is from Beijing, got me into Korean food and shows until I really wanted to go to SKorea. I finally decided to go on my first ever vacation, but no one I knew could go with me, and so ...
I don't know why people are Facebook shy. @gobotDo you think it could be because they are upset that Facebook let the Russians interfere in the 2016 US election? - @THIGVNon sequitur Read More
getting post in Vietnam by ruthbrandish
Has anyone had a problem getting post from the Uk in HCM. Nearly everything posted to me by family never arrives especially parcels . Is there a way around this ?
You will be often disappointed sending anything in the post from overseas. There is theft and mismanagement in the customs bureaucracy. I had luck two ways from the US.per @Thigv, use DHL or Fedex to Saigon airport. They have online tracking. ... 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 ...
Oh, and lest I forget, geckos! Yeah sure, they're harmless and cute, and make"great pets", that is until they get to be 30 cm big (almost 12"). I kid you not. 30 cm only? Must have been a baby. We get bigger in District 8. Wife ordered a saddle ... Read More
Intro and other ways to land jobs in VietNam outside of TEFL by FrozenYak
Greetings!My story actually starts when my best friend, who is from Beijing, got me into Korean food and shows until I really wanted to go to SKorea. I finally decided to go on my first ever vacation, but no one I knew could go with me, and so ...
My story actually starts when my best friend, who is from Beijing, got me into Korean food and shows until I really wanted to go to SKorea. I finally decided to go on my first ever vacation, but no one I knew could go with me, and so my costs ... Read More
What do "people" do with their valuables? by qnbui
Just curious to know what other people do with their valuables. Not looking to know what you are doing, just what you heard "others" are doing in regards to passports, cash,... Please don't divulge anything that could make you a target.Here in the ...
"Vietnam is still a cash society. Only about 27% adults have bank accounts. "Depends whose statistics you believe. The State Bank of VN states that 70% of adults now have bank accounts.According to the State Bank of Vietnam's statistics in 2020, 70 ... Read More
Transitioning to Vietnam by sfowler2760
Hello everyone! I am tired of the high costs of living in the U.S. and all the beauracy. At 63 I would like to become an expat. I have narrowed it down to Thailand and Vietnam. I have done some research on the internet as far as costs, ...
... now they are clamping down on marriages of over 20yrs difference in age.Hi! What is your source for this bit? Thx Read More
Foreigner tourists by Guestposter822
Hi, just wondering what it's like in Vietnam now. Are there foreign tourists there now ? has the economy survived the Covid ? the reason i ask is last time I was there in a downturn I noticed the amount of theft increased significantly, bag ...
I have no data, just observations. Motoring around Saigon last weekend, saw just a few white tourists, like the amount we saw back in May. Saw no groups of Chinese. Bui Vien just a few with new sneakers, no backpackers, the bars open but empty, ... Read More
Friendships by MarkinNam
What’s your opinion in this area, between Vietnamese and others ? What’s your perception of the depth and sincerity of those friendships ? Many have developed long lasting marriages among Vietnamese communities, what was the ...
A curious question. You have been in the forum a long time, wondering what initiated it. Guessing a bad outcome.In California, my friends were almost all foreign born who arrived in the US as adults and settled permanently. My Vietnamese wife grew ... Read More
What do "people" do with their valuables? by qnbui
Just curious to know what other people do with their valuables. Not looking to know what you are doing, just what you heard "others" are doing in regards to passports, cash,... Please don't divulge anything that could make you a target.Here in the ...
Vietnam is still a cash society. Only about 27% adults have bank accounts. Valuables are squirreled away at home. It is easy, be clever. There is ecommerce here, you can order online, but the sites often deliver COD! I always paid rent ... Read More
Transitioning to Vietnam by sfowler2760
Hello everyone! I am tired of the high costs of living in the U.S. and all the beauracy. At 63 I would like to become an expat. I have narrowed it down to Thailand and Vietnam. I have done some research on the internet as far as costs, ...
Hello everyone! I am tired of the high costs of living in the U.S. and all the beauracy. At 63 I would like to become an expat. I have narrowed it down to Thailand and Vietnam. I have done some research on the internet as far as costs, ... Read More
Language Advice by RTLisSB
Whenever I travel for more than three or four weeks, I always spend a few weeks on Rosetta Stone and Duolingo in an attempt to learn at least a few words before I arrive. I find simply being able to say please, thank you, yes, no, etc., to be ...
Youtube. search for Learn Vietnamese with DonnaShe speaks clearly and you will not be bored. I learned numbers first, the city names video will show you to never assume pronunciation.Unfortunately she quit after a few videos.Other youtube ... Read More
Does your Vietnamese wife do this? by gobot
Since I have only had one Vietnamese wife, I often attribute her unusual behavior to ALL Vietnamese. Help me out guys, and Vietnamese who are lurking here too. Is this normal? Is it just her? Got other examples?1. "The man enters ...
The "door thing" is made in America. I'm talking as a Swiss, don't know if it's same all over Europe. Yes, the husband always let his wife go first. WITH ONE EXCEPTION: entering a restaurant. Are you really so rude and let your wife talk to the ... Read More
Taking Vietnamese Girlfriend to the UK by Bill2014
How easy is it to get a visa for Vietnamese friend to come stay with me in the UK. I guess a tourist visa would be required?
US consulate really has to hate US citizens, to make their foreign national spouses not welcome. - @gobotAt first glance it does seem that way but the problem stems from one of the ways that regular immigration works. The "normal" ... Read More
Where can you go to meet some vietnamese women in ho chi minh city ?
Guys...Our Vietnamese American Jacob- Nguyen, left the message on 7th of June... and since then no participation at his topic... 😀Maybe someone just had a bad day to the office then posted a topic here... for the next 2 years... or 3 years ... Read More
Does your Vietnamese wife do this? by gobot
Since I have only had one Vietnamese wife, I often attribute her unusual behavior to ALL Vietnamese. Help me out guys, and Vietnamese who are lurking here too. Is this normal? Is it just her? Got other examples?1. "The man enters ...
My motto has always been, as so eloquently stated by Casey Neistat,“Experience does for the soul, what education does for the mind.” - @Aidan in HCMCTouchy feely but ok. There is a difference, education vs experience, ... Read More
Using iPhone when traveling by Scott McKnight
For good or for bad, after 5 years, I’m heading back to USA for an indefinite stay. I am investigating options for using iPhone after landing. No one will meet me at airport and I have many little tasks to do that require a phone before ...
@gobot I like to hear people’s experiences rather than their guesses, so yes it helps to know.Thanks - @Scott McKnightScott I have a dual sim Iphone that I use internationally. When you arrive get your rental car and go to the nearest ... Read More
Taking Vietnamese Girlfriend to the UK by Bill2014
How easy is it to get a visa for Vietnamese friend to come stay with me in the UK. I guess a tourist visa would be required?
With a new Vietnamese wife, who has Taiwanese citizenship and passport, I can say that a Vietnamese passport holder has next to no chance of getting a holiday visa to anywhere. Sad, but true. Seek the advice of a good agency here in Vietnam and they ... Read More
Using iPhone when traveling by Scott McKnight
For good or for bad, after 5 years, I’m heading back to USA for an indefinite stay. I am investigating options for using iPhone after landing. No one will meet me at airport and I have many little tasks to do that require a phone before ...
At a US airport, you can use wifi (if you can find it) and you don't need a sim for that. You can take out the sim card, and wifi will work. Airports should/might have free airport wifi, SFO does, the only US airport I've been to in many years.When ... Read More
Looking for an apartment to buy this year (off plan) by rdubois44
Hey, my name is Rick and I'm thinking of settling down in Ho Chi Minh (District 9). I will retire with me Korean wife in about 3 years, and I'm looking for an apartment to buy this year (off plan). Anyway, I'm looking forward to chatting on Expats. ...
@Stein is right. There is so much building speculation by greedy developers, for wishful buyers who deposit early to flip later. Two nice big buildings near here, both designed to have malls on the first floor. Buildings done. No mall. Off ... Read More
Buying a small motorbike by Malcolmleitrim
My vietnamese girlfriend wants to buy a new motorbike and I am trying to help her. However, I won't be in Vietnam until next month and besides, I know nothing about motorbikes. I have tried looking up prices online but once I put in my ...
My Schwab ATM card will permit US$1000 per day. - @gobotDid you know you can ask them to raise the daily limit, as well as change the daily limit for POS transactions?I call their toll-free number using SKYPE.I raised my daily ATM limit to ... Read More
Help us update Vietnam guide by Veedushi
Dear members of the Vietnam forum, I hope you’re doing well. Our editorial team is hard at work and we’re looking to update and review Vietnam guide before the end of the year. We would like to better cater to your needs and as such, ...
Howdy pardner, I don't know what was deleted, but are the moderators cracking down on off-topic silliness, while at the same time encouraging volunteers to update the website?I never knew there was a guide, everyone was always instructed ... Read More
Where can you go to meet some vietnamese women in ho chi minh city ?
"Two years really? Maybe you are building this up too much in your mind, Jacob. "Strange, you said you dont ding anyone for planning ahead. - @colinoscapee Ha! Anyway I consider a scouting trip the best type of planning ahead for a ... Read More
Buying a small motorbike by Malcolmleitrim
My vietnamese girlfriend wants to buy a new motorbike and I am trying to help her. However, I won't be in Vietnam until next month and besides, I know nothing about motorbikes. I have tried looking up prices online but once I put in my ...
FYI I only ever use HSBC ATMs, there is one near Bitexco, one at Crescent Lake.The max withdrawal is around 7 million. I can do it twice at Crescent Lake, Bitexco is not so generous. My Schwab ATM card will permit US$1000 per day.And thx for ... Read More
Does your Vietnamese wife do this? by gobot
Since I have only had one Vietnamese wife, I often attribute her unusual behavior to ALL Vietnamese. Help me out guys, and Vietnamese who are lurking here too. Is this normal? Is it just her? Got other examples?1. "The man enters ...
Mine does whatever she tells me to do. - @Aidan in HCMCThat's deep.I do whatever mine reminds me to do, over and over and over, every single time she motorbikes to work. In case I forgot."Lock the door"Do you know there are criminals everywhere? Read More
Latest Status on Tap Water by RTLisSB
Greetings all,From what I've read, tap water, even in the cities, is not potable. Therefore, it is recommended to buy bottled water as boiling tap water would still leave dangerous metals.Is this an accurate depiction of life in HCMC and other major ...
I feel you are overthinking things and trying to have everything sorted before arriving.Hit the ground, talk to other expats and locals. Dont try to understand how everything works before arriving.As the saying goes, "getting lost is part of the ... Read More
Em oi.... What The Heo by alexneoh
Encountered such situation yesterday during my diner. As usual, almost daily frequenting this bun cha joint run by end 40's lady, sitting on a small little stool and table, munching my food while observing views that pleasuring my eyes, ...
As I have been instructed, one doesn't tie pronouns to ages. Pronoun choice is relative to your age. My wife's older sister, I must call chi (like "jee" rising). Older sister. It doesn't matter than she is 10 years younger than me. It's ... Read More
Latest Status on Tap Water by RTLisSB
Greetings all,From what I've read, tap water, even in the cities, is not potable. Therefore, it is recommended to buy bottled water as boiling tap water would still leave dangerous metals.Is this an accurate depiction of life in HCMC and other major ...
Tip: Carrying water home is not fun. If you live in a tower there will be service that can bring bottles to your door. Otherwise ask neighbors what they do. Read More
Does your Vietnamese wife do this?
Since I have only had one Vietnamese wife, I often attribute her unusual behavior to ALL Vietnamese. Help me out guys, and Vietnamese who are lurking here too. Is this normal? Is it just her? Got other examples?1. "The man enters ... Read More
Where can you go to meet some vietnamese women in ho chi minh city ?
Been here 14 years & my Vietnamese language & words you could count on 1 hand & never had a problem yet meeting & getting to know Vietnamese ladies. Dont waste your time learning the language, just go down the park or the ... Read More
Help us update Vietnam guide by Veedushi
Dear members of the Vietnam forum, I hope you’re doing well. Our editorial team is hard at work and we’re looking to update and review Vietnam guide before the end of the year. We would like to better cater to your needs and as such, ...
There is a guide? Who knew! Read More
Contemporary Vung Tau by RTLisSB
Greetings,I will be in Vietnam from Nov to Dec and I'm currently planning on staying in HCMC. However, I've recently read a lot of positive things about Vung Tau.I understand it is a great place for expats, but I was hoping someone could tell me if ...
If one was visiting VN for a month in November I would recommend either:1. Base in Saigon. See the tourist stuff. There is an open-top bus now. Take the water taxi tour. Turtle lake. Nguyen Trai. Cho Lon D5. Phu My Hung D7. Install Grab app ... Read More
Cell Chargers by RTLisSB
Greetings,Has anyone on the forum ever needed to replace a cell phone charger/cable while in Vietnam? If so, are these easy to find for a Samsung S7? How about MacBook cables?Best regards,Roger
Only buy Macbook chargers in an Apple retailer, like Futureworld in Saigon. Fake chargers have very different internals. There is no added tax like the US, so my iPad cost 10% more than retail, but Calif tax is 8.5%, so same same. Computers ... Read More
Off Topic Posts - Whats on your mind? by SimCityAT
This thread is for everything Off-topic..........[img align=C]https://www.askideas.com/media/13/Burning-Whats-Up-Gif-Picture.gif[/img]
That last supper must have been all protein. ( tinyurl.com/cf4sme6w ) - @Aidan in HCMCSamson Christ with an 18 pack Read More
Sending personal belongings from Vietnam by ruzuba1500
Hello everybody,sorry if i started the subject that already exist, but I couldnt find the right information on few first pages.I moved to Vietnam from China where i lived and worked 6 years. I brought with me some items that i dont need, such ...
So 60 - 80 kilos total? International flights allow 2 checked bags around 20-25 kilo each. Maybe you pay extra for another 25 kilos. As OB said, that is cheapest if you are going too.If too expensive, sell/give away/throw away some of it. Consider ... Read More
New members of the Vietnam forum, introduce yourselves here - 2022 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Vietnam forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
@ahaaf87 in Facebook post your question and specialties in the group Tech Expats in HCMC (Saigon). It isn't very active but there offshoring agencies and consultants there. Read More
How can I improve my english only 1 month? by Ng Sunny
My english level A1.How can I improve my english only 1 month? I want to apply job at foreigner company at HCM C.
dating with GI Read More
Common misconceptions and clichés about life in Vietnam by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Old clichés die hard, as the saying goes... and living in Vietnam can generate lots of misconceptions in the eyes of the people. What are the most common misconceptions about the expat lifestyle in Vietnam? What are the ...
I just needed to let go of the misconception that the Vietnamese people are my enemy. - @OceanBeach92107A very common misconception of Americans is a corollary to this."Do Vietnamese people hate us?" How many times has someone whispered me that ... Read More
Buying a small motorbike by Malcolmleitrim
My vietnamese girlfriend wants to buy a new motorbike and I am trying to help her. However, I won't be in Vietnam until next month and besides, I know nothing about motorbikes. I have tried looking up prices online but once I put in my ...
My vietnamese girlfriend wants to buy a new motorbike and I am trying to help her. However, I won't be in Vietnam until next month and besides, I know nothing about motorbikes. I have tried looking up prices online but once I put in my ... Read More
Off Topic Posts - Whats on your mind? by SimCityAT
This thread is for everything Off-topic..........[img align=C]https://www.askideas.com/media/13/Burning-Whats-Up-Gif-Picture.gif[/img]
Loot I brought back from the states this week. More I forgot to photo: shirts & shoes from outlet, watches, gifts, family photos. Also new luggage. Needed to stock up after lockdowns.I started to read Travis McGee books (1960s action pulp for ... Read More