Life in Vietnam for a foreigner?
I'm an American currently considering to teach English in Vietnam, either Hanoi or Saigon (yes I still call it Saigon). I've visited the country before, and I really liked it. However, LIVING and VISITING are two completely different sports. -Can any fellow foreigners tell me what it's like to live in Vietnam? -What hurdles and challenges did you have to face? - What do you like about Vietnam? - How are you viewed in Vietnam as a foreigner? Thanks!
Other - Vietnam - 4 Answers
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1 :
I've live in Vietnam for the past 6 years. I am a Chinese Canadian.. I have a company in Vietnam. -To live in Vietnam is like any other country, you sort of have to get use to it. You definitely have to live not like a tourist. -Basically not too many hurdles and challenges. I've few friends that also teaches English in Vietnam. It just basically the some of the paper work such as visa, work permit, etc.... but it is not too difficult. -I love Vietnam myself, it is tropical and the fruit is amazing. -I think Vietnam it's openning up now, as it is relatively safe place. The economy is Vietnam is growing. -If you've anymore questions, please email me at newskytravelvn@gmail.com
2 :
Most Vietnamese still call Ho Chi Minh City Saigon. It is after all a Vietnamese word ( originally a chinese word ) .Although It became offically Ho Chi Minh City in 1976 in honor to the Leader " the Enlightened One" Ho Chi Minh. The Vietnamese people are very friendly and kind and do not hold grudges. It does not matter that you are American, as long as you realise Vietnam is not the USA and their customs and traditions are thousands of years older then the USA. If one appreciates this, and has a kind and humble attitude, you will find Vietnam a paradise, and the people will treat you with open arms. They are a very Hospitable people. One tip I have for you, is try to learn as much of the Vietnamese Language as you can. Rosetta Stone Language training is very good. Learning the language will be a big help in blending in with the vietnamese community. There are many ex-pats living in Vietnam, especially south ( Sai Gon, Vung Tao, ect.) If you have a job, or you buy a business in Vietnam, the paperwork is usually straight forward.
3 :
Hurdles and Challenges? Constant blackouts in the countryside (Where the majority of people live.) No water. (We're experiencing one of the worst droughts on record.) Internet dropping out even when the power is on etc etc. I could go on but what the use. You'll form your own opinion soon enough. As an American do yourself a favour. Regardless of your opinion of the war don't come here as a self appointed, and annointed apologist, bad mouthing your country, and kow towing your way around the place in a vain attempt to ingratiate yourself with the locals. These fools impress no one, least of all their former enemies. And if you have a favourable opinion about Ho Chi Minh, keep that to yourself as well, especially in the South. Here's a differing opinion of the ''Enlightened One" from Saturdays Epoch Times. http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/content/view/17367/
4 :
You will love the people here, especially your students, but you will miss your family, your friends, your food and so on in the U.S.
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