goreme
American expat in Vietnam
Forum posts
145
Contacts
3
About me
American
Lives in na
Registration: 12 August 2015
Common misconceptions and clich茅s about life in Taiwan by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Old clich茅s die hard, as the saying goes... and living in Taiwan can generate lots of misconceptions in the eyes of the people. What are the most common misconceptions about the expat lifestyle in Taiwan? What are the most ...
Are you implying that Taiwanese are more hostile to foreigners than the general perception stating otherwise? Read More
Why do Vietnamese often burn plastic and other garbage?
I understand that some areas are not serviced with garbage collection let alone recycling. What I dont understand is the frequency of burning plastic in areas with regular garbage collection. It is especially troubling when you see parents and ... Read More
What is the process for registering w/police when renting? by goreme
Renting house for 1mo and owner wants me to go to the notary office to sign the rental contract which will then be submitted for police registration. Doesnt seem like a big deal but owner claims it will take one hour which likely means it could be ...
I was beginning to suspect someing like that and dreading excessive amount of time it would take to sort it out. It seems many VNs i come across dont appreciate the value of time and nor mind wasting others time. Read More
What is the process for registering w/police when renting? by goreme
Renting house for 1mo and owner wants me to go to the notary office to sign the rental contract which will then be submitted for police registration. Doesnt seem like a big deal but owner claims it will take one hour which likely means it could be ...
Are you sure that your prior landlords didn't just go ahead and register you without your knowing? It would be sort of a CYA on their part. As far as notarizing the rental agreement, it's probably overkill on the owner's part but how ... Read More
What is the process for registering w/police when renting? by goreme
Renting house for 1mo and owner wants me to go to the notary office to sign the rental contract which will then be submitted for police registration. Doesnt seem like a big deal but owner claims it will take one hour which likely means it could be ...
Right, just seems unusual that renter would be required to accompany owner to notary office to sign rental agreement. Rented a place at Ocean Villas and two other houses before that, and all i had to do was hand over passport for a day or copy of ... Read More
What is the process for registering w/police when renting?
Renting house for 1mo and owner wants me to go to the notary office to sign the rental contract which will then be submitted for police registration. Doesnt seem like a big deal but owner claims it will take one hour which likely means it could be ... Read More
Danang coastline becoming over developed?
There is a lot of construction along the coastline from the Hyatt to Hoi An and much of it being built precariously close to the shoreline. Is Danang destined to repeat the same mistakes developers made in Hoi An by over developing there and ... Read More
Any Updates on the newly passed 12 month tourist visa for US citizens by ChrisRug
My name is Chris. I've lived here with my wife and two children for almost a year now. I read all news VN, and read a few months ago that the VN govt was going to change the way tourist visa's were issued for Japan, AU and US. I then read ...
From whom did you get the letter? I'm being quoted $230 and it's not a rush. Thanks.As a note, the invitation letter was for 3 months. But, Americans are automatically given 12 month visas. On the application at the VOA booth I wrote in 12 ... Read More
Mosquito situation in Da Nang by AndizGr8Lyfe
Greetings! My spouse and I are headed to Da Nang in May for a 3-to-12-month stay. We are really excited about the trip! However, the US State Department and CDC are freaking me out with their warnings about mosquitoes and other biting insects in ...
Late to this thread but Zika is a very serious issue and dengue is no picnic. Any traveler infected with Zika can transmit the virus via sex and other bodily fluids not to mention by other mosquitos after being bitten. It's only a matter of ... Read More
Is 1700 USD enough for two to live in Hanoi? by jritoo
Hi, I want to know whether $ 1700 per month will be enough for two in Hanoi? will it cover fully furnished accommodation, electricity, good speed internet, travelling & entertainment. I want to also know whether domestic help is available & is it ...
Keep in mind that the low cost of living comes with it low quality of life(eg, lack of infrastructure, poor sanitation, pollution, garbage burning, etc). That's the hard reality for many developing countries despite the modern conveniences ... Read More
Computer/laptop repair by goreme
Anyone know of reputable computer repair shop, preferably one that can speak English?
Didnt realize that, thanks for heads up. Found a repair shop across street from Phi long computer store in Danang. Read More
Computer/laptop repair by goreme
Anyone know of reputable computer repair shop, preferably one that can speak English?
Thank you for the recommendation :) Read More
Computer/laptop repair
Anyone know of reputable computer repair shop, preferably one that can speak English? Read More
Any Updates on the newly passed 12 month tourist visa for US citizens by ChrisRug
My name is Chris. I've lived here with my wife and two children for almost a year now. I read all news VN, and read a few months ago that the VN govt was going to change the way tourist visa's were issued for Japan, AU and US. I then read ...
I just paid for 6mos business visa yesterday for $295. What are my chances of getting a refund and obtaining 1yr visa before 9/1? Read More
Upgrading to business class on Vietnam Air worth it?
Flying to Bangkok and received email promo stating faster immigration clearance but couldnt find any further information about this. Read More
Insight into VN Culture as a Westerner Dating a Vietnamese Woman? by sdmoi
Hi. This is my first post on expat and I'm here because I feel like I'm screwing up sometimes with my girlfriend and generally want to hear from others with experience dating across cultures. I've only been living in Saigon two months ...
For the Vietnamese like many Asian cultures, relationships are serious business not the ephemeral, try it before you buy it mentality prevalent in the west. A lot of time/effort is invested to lay the groundwork for the future, and when one partner ... Read More
Any lap pools in Hoi An?
Are there any lap pools (25m+) open to public ? Read More
How safe is the seafood in Danang?
It appears to be an ongoing problem. Although this recent issue was not about fish from the sea. http://tuoitrenews.vn/society/36291/tons-of-fish-found-dead-in-da-nang-park It does make one wonder if and how much of these fish do end up in the ... Read More
How safe is the seafood in Danang?
Only if you think the problem goes away over night Read More
How safe is the seafood in Danang?
Reading news about toxic spills and tons of dead fish which may wind up in markets. Read More
Looking for Men's tailor recommendations by goreme
There seem to be hundreds of tailors in Hoi an and not sure where to start and which ones speak English. I would like to have some cotton/linen pants and shirts made. What is a reasonable price to pay? Also looking for someone to make a simple ...
Do you recall how much you paid to have the shirts and trousers made, and did it require you to go back for multiple fittings? Read More
Have you ever refused to pay bribe to customs official?
If so, what was the outcome? Did you report it, go to another line or take some other course of action? Read More
How would you rate the quality of life in Danang?
Nha Trang is supposed to be bigger tourist area especially catering to Russians. I also hear the locals there are not quite as friendly because of that. Any truth to this? Read More
How would you rate the quality of life in Danang?
Compared to your home country or other areas of Vietnam/SE Asia? Read More
Expat business owners in Vietnam - If you could start over... by goreme
..what would you do differently? So far, I'm realizing the importance of translators and not taking things literally, at face value.
Sounds like you were given short end of stick too many times or are you being facetious? Read More
Expat business owners in Vietnam - If you could start over...
..what would you do differently? So far, I'm realizing the importance of translators and not taking things literally, at face value. Read More
Lazada the best online shop in Vietnam? by goreme
Looking for household appliances and some sporting equipment. Will Lazada be reliable to order from?
Thanks for the link, will check it out. Read More
Where to buy Swim Cap in Danang?
Good idea, didnt see any when i visited but may have changed with tourist season under way. Read More
Where to buy Swim Cap in Danang?
Is there a large sports store or smaller store specializing in swim equipment? Seems there are a number of small shops selling sports related items but not swim gear. Read More
Where to rent motorbike with big storage under seat? by goreme
Looking for something like Yamaha Grande or Honda Lead that will fit a grocery bag under the seat. All the motorbike rental shops I've been to have only bikes with middle raised section between legs or Attila Sym with very small under seat ...
Moderator removed number. Can you send number to me in private message? l already went to location and called number on sign but person did not speak English. Read More
Lazada the best online shop in Vietnam? by goreme
Looking for household appliances and some sporting equipment. Will Lazada be reliable to order from?
Ok thanks for additional info, I'll have to take a look. Read More
Lazada the best online shop in Vietnam? by goreme
Looking for household appliances and some sporting equipment. Will Lazada be reliable to order from?
That's good to know. Amazing theyre selling expensive items on the site and only take cash on delivery :-/ Read More
Where to rent motorbike with big storage under seat? by goreme
Looking for something like Yamaha Grande or Honda Lead that will fit a grocery bag under the seat. All the motorbike rental shops I've been to have only bikes with middle raised section between legs or Attila Sym with very small under seat ...
Went to location yesterday but no bikes there. Only saw pool table and small bike rental sign Cho Thue Xe . Tried calling but person didnt speak English. Read More
Where to rent motorbike with big storage under seat?
Looking for something like Yamaha Grande or Honda Lead that will fit a grocery bag under the seat. All the motorbike rental shops I've been to have only bikes with middle raised section between legs or Attila Sym with very small under seat ... Read More
Lazada the best online shop in Vietnam?
Looking for household appliances and some sporting equipment. Will Lazada be reliable to order from? Read More
Best bank for receiving incoming USD/EU wire transfers? by goreme
Given up trying to open an account with HSBC, any other recommendations?
That sounds great and almost too good to be true :-) So do you just go to the branch, show your passport and say 'Xoom transfer' or is there other paperwork you need to show? Read More
Best bank for receiving incoming USD/EU wire transfers? by goreme
Given up trying to open an account with HSBC, any other recommendations?
Have you tried it and is it as easy,hassle-free as it sounds? Read More
Best bank for receiving incoming USD/EU wire transfers? by goreme
Given up trying to open an account with HSBC, any other recommendations?
So Xoom takes directly from your bank account and transfers to Sacom bank where you dont have a bank account? If that's correct, how do you pick up the money without of a lot of verbal gymnastics wth the VN tellers at Sacom bank? Read More
Best bank for receiving incoming USD/EU wire transfers? by goreme
Given up trying to open an account with HSBC, any other recommendations?
'Colorectal'? Are you being humorous or am I missing something here? Read More
Best bank for receiving incoming USD/EU wire transfers? by goreme
Given up trying to open an account with HSBC, any other recommendations?
That's a possibility though I would rather not impose on them to do this regularly. Read More
Best bank for receiving incoming USD/EU wire transfers? by goreme
Given up trying to open an account with HSBC, any other recommendations?
So you use Xoom to transfer money to Sacom Bank without a bank account? What do you mean by 'amici can pick up...'? Read More
Best bank for receiving incoming USD/EU wire transfers? by goreme
Given up trying to open an account with HSBC, any other recommendations?
I've used Xoom but you need a receiving bank in the coutnry youre in. Read More
Best bank for receiving incoming USD/EU wire transfers? by goreme
Given up trying to open an account with HSBC, any other recommendations?
My accounts will only transfer to another financial institution in my name so Western Union wont work. Read More
Best bank for receiving incoming USD/EU wire transfers?
Given up trying to open an account with HSBC, any other recommendations? Read More
What are good hubs to fly into from Danang to renew Visa? by goreme
Aside from Bangkok, what are other places that are relatively convenient?
Have you tried either option, if so, how was it? Read More
What are good hubs to fly into from Danang to renew Visa? by goreme
Aside from Bangkok, what are other places that are relatively convenient?
I'll have to try their direct flight next time. Tried flying Vietjet air with connecting flight with Asia air and it was a nightmare. Oh well live and learn ;-) Read More
What are good hubs to fly into from Danang to renew Visa? by goreme
Aside from Bangkok, what are other places that are relatively convenient?
I havent tried it but looks like a viable option if it's not a painful experience ;-) Read More
Any pollution concerns and the health impacts while living in Danang?
Reading a number of news stories indicating an ongoing problem with industrial plants and sewage treatment facilities dumping untreated waste water into Danang bay and other areas of the coastline. Apparently it's so bad, that they've even ... Read More
What are good hubs to fly into from Danang to renew Visa? by goreme
Aside from Bangkok, what are other places that are relatively convenient?
Thanks will look into Laos. As for Bangkok, first time hearing about BangkokAir :-) Read More
What are good hubs to fly into from Danang to renew Visa?
Aside from Bangkok, what are other places that are relatively convenient? Read More
Any recommendations for English speaking Doctor or Pharmacy?
Thanks for sharing this info, will give them a try. Read More
Any recommendations for English speaking Doctor or Pharmacy?
I've already contacted a few and had trouble communicating. Read More
Americans Treated Unfairly by arnie
Why is it that most Taiwanese think that all Americans are wealthy people? Most are NOT millionaires ... not even close. We Americans are usually deep in financial debt and have very small bank accounts. What really bothers me is the fact that ...
There are just as many examples of this in other countries as well. Having traveled a fair amount, I can safely say people are the same all over the world. The main differentiating factor is culture. Some value group harmony which can manifest ... Read More
Americans Treated Unfairly by arnie
Why is it that most Taiwanese think that all Americans are wealthy people? Most are NOT millionaires ... not even close. We Americans are usually deep in financial debt and have very small bank accounts. What really bothers me is the fact that ...
What you describe is not unique to Taiwan and happens all over the world, especially in far richer countries like US/Canada. Let's not forget the virtual banking collapse and global financial meltdown not long ago caused by the incompetence, ... Read More
do all banks in Vietnam charge to use their ATMs? by goreme
Opened an account with Vietcom bank and noticed that they charged 8,000d to get cash from one of their ATMs.
How do you like MB Bank...any issues? Read More
do all banks in Vietnam charge to use their ATMs? by goreme
Opened an account with Vietcom bank and noticed that they charged 8,000d to get cash from one of their ATMs.
I know right...that amounts to extortion! Luckily i wont be using ATM much :-) Read More
do all banks in Vietnam charge to use their ATMs?
Opened an account with Vietcom bank and noticed that they charged 8,000d to get cash from one of their ATMs. Read More
Are some petrol attendants looking for a tip?
Went to fill up the motorbike the other day and showed the attendant 50.000d note and he nodded. Once finished he pointed at the petrol meter which showed 50.000 and I handed the 50.000 note over to him. He didnt take the note but pointed again ... Read More
Hardware stores - looking for wood glue by goreme
Is there an area where all the hardware stores are located? Looking specifically for wood glue.
You are very helpful, thanks for sharing! Read More
Hardware stores - looking for wood glue by goreme
Is there an area where all the hardware stores are located? Looking specifically for wood glue.
Went there today and only saw electronics/computer store. Didn't see any decoration store nearby. Do you know name of store I can ask someone nearby? Read More
Hardware stores - looking for wood glue by goreme
Is there an area where all the hardware stores are located? Looking specifically for wood glue.
Thanks for the info :-) Read More
Americans Treated Unfairly by arnie
Why is it that most Taiwanese think that all Americans are wealthy people? Most are NOT millionaires ... not even close. We Americans are usually deep in financial debt and have very small bank accounts. What really bothers me is the fact that ...
To be fair most Americans, and tourists for that matter, coming to Taiwan have 2-3x buying power of the avg local. If Americans were only charged local prices, imagine how popularity of Taiwan would increase, prices would sky rocket and the locals ... Read More
Hardware stores - looking for wood glue
Is there an area where all the hardware stores are located? Looking specifically for wood glue. Read More
Is this typical weather for Danang?
It seems to be flipping from hot to relatively 'cold' on a weekly basis. Is this normal for this time of year or unusual? Read More
Amazonviet.com? by goreme
Anyone have experience ordering from this site? Are they affiliated with Amazon or a scam site?
"We took a trip to their office in HCM. Do that and you too will realize just what is going on." So can you share with everyone what is going on? Read More
How reliable is Danang postal service for letters send abroad? by goreme
Is it reliable or hit/miss with long delays? Would Fedex/UPS be a better alternative for time-sensitive items, albeit more costly?
Great, thx again for the help :-) Read More
How reliable is Danang postal service for letters send abroad?
Is it reliable or hit/miss with long delays? Would Fedex/UPS be a better alternative for time-sensitive items, albeit more costly? Read More
Where to get document notarized and computer printout? by goreme
Need to get notarized proof of passport and print a few pdf docs, any recommendations?
Good to know, thanks for sharing :-) Read More
Where to get document notarized and computer printout? by goreme
Need to get notarized proof of passport and print a few pdf docs, any recommendations?
Perhaps, I just like to maximize my time by leveraging experience of others :-) Read More
Where to get document notarized and computer printout? by goreme
Need to get notarized proof of passport and print a few pdf docs, any recommendations?
Thanks, if only it were that easy ;-) Googling 'photocopy Danang' doesnt come up with anything. I suppose next bet would be locating a computer repair shop. As for the notary, I decided to get one online and save the hassle of finding ... Read More
Where to get document notarized and computer printout?
Need to get notarized proof of passport and print a few pdf docs, any recommendations? Read More
Amazonviet.com? by goreme
Anyone have experience ordering from this site? Are they affiliated with Amazon or a scam site?
It's interesting the site is able to get away with using Amazon's logo and plug into their entire inventory. Surprised they havent been shut down by now. Anyway, thanks for confirming :-) Read More
Environmental protection in Vietnam by Kenjee
Hi, Environmental protection is a challenging issue for all the countries around the world. Would you say this issue is deemed of significance in Vietnam? Is the country going green through initiatives like waste management and selective ...
It's an important issue that those from developing countries with disposable income have the luxury to dwell on. For most Vietnamese there are more pressing concerns--namely food and shelter. It will take time to educate the populace to ... Read More
Amazonviet.com?
Anyone have experience ordering from this site? Are they affiliated with Amazon or a scam site? Read More
Visa Extensions Da Nang by raymerjacque
I have a 3 month tourist Visa, and I have heard of people extending their visa's in Da Nang without having to travel to hanoi... Does anyone know how or where in Da Nang this can be done and what the cost is for a 3 month extension ? Any ...
RT to BKK or SIN should be under $200 Read More
Visa Extensions Da Nang by raymerjacque
I have a 3 month tourist Visa, and I have heard of people extending their visa's in Da Nang without having to travel to hanoi... Does anyone know how or where in Da Nang this can be done and what the cost is for a 3 month extension ? Any ...
I was just told the same today that only emergency 1mo extension available which cost as much as flyig to BK and back for 3mo/single entry. Book flight from Vietjet or Tigerair and get visa from vietnamimmigration.org. 3mo/single entry cost $72 ... Read More
Visa Extensions Da Nang by raymerjacque
I have a 3 month tourist Visa, and I have heard of people extending their visa's in Da Nang without having to travel to hanoi... Does anyone know how or where in Da Nang this can be done and what the cost is for a 3 month extension ? Any ...
Who told you that? Just contacted Travel Mart and they say ok for $165 3mo single entry tourist visa. Read More
House cleaner recommendations by goreme
Looking for house cleaner to clean 2 bdrm apt on weekly basis. Any recommendations and cost estimates?
Thanks for the info. I had posted this in the Danang forum and for some reason it was moved here or maybe I'm just doing it wrong. Read More
House cleaner recommendations by goreme
Looking for house cleaner to clean 2 bdrm apt on weekly basis. Any recommendations and cost estimates?
Tried contacting via phone/email but no answer. Does she speak English? Read More
House cleaner recommendations by goreme
Looking for house cleaner to clean 2 bdrm apt on weekly basis. Any recommendations and cost estimates?
Thanks for the recommendation and will be sure to contact :-) Read More
House cleaner recommendations by goreme
Looking for house cleaner to clean 2 bdrm apt on weekly basis. Any recommendations and cost estimates?
Thank you Bhavna for the suggestion however, I think members should be encouraged to propose service personnel they have hired. Especially in developing countries like Vietnam, members may know of those who can perform services who may not have ... Read More
Ordering Contact lenses online by goreme
Anyone order contact lenses online and have them shipped to Vietnam without a lot of hassle? I tried ordering from Thailand (ta-to.com) and now my contacts are stuck in customs who say i need to apply for an import license before they will release ...
2mo supply daily disposables, any suggestions on what to do? Read More
Ordering Contact lenses online
Anyone order contact lenses online and have them shipped to Vietnam without a lot of hassle? I tried ordering from Thailand (ta-to.com) and now my contacts are stuck in customs who say i need to apply for an import license before they will release ... Read More
Where to buy Mosquito trap in Danang? by goreme
Already have one of those tennis racket like mosquito zappers but looking for something like this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00I0G0JXE?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage Anyone know if there is a hardware/dept store ...
Yeah they worked great on Maui. Will have to see if I can order one and have it shipped. The tennis racquet zappers are good in pinch but you have to zap all the mosquitos before going to bed ;-) Read More
House cleaner recommendations
Looking for house cleaner to clean 2 bdrm apt on weekly basis. Any recommendations and cost estimates? Read More
Any hotel swimming pools open to public? by goreme
Are there any swimming pools - preferably Olympic sized at hotels that will allow public access for a fee?
50m pool -- is it this one: http://en.thienkimreal.com/du-an-xem/18/hoang-anh-gia-lai---lakeview/bat-dong-san-da-nang.html Looks more like 25m though long enough to swim laps. Read More
Any hotel swimming pools open to public? by goreme
Are there any swimming pools - preferably Olympic sized at hotels that will allow public access for a fee?
Checked it out and It's a pretty small pool not really suitable for lap swim. Read More
Any hotel swimming pools open to public? by goreme
Are there any swimming pools - preferably Olympic sized at hotels that will allow public access for a fee?
Havent tried but thanks for the coordinates. Read More
Where to buy Mosquito trap in Danang?
Already have one of those tennis racket like mosquito zappers but looking for something like this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00I0G0JXE?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage Anyone know if there is a hardware/dept store ... Read More
Looking for Men's tailor recommendations
There seem to be hundreds of tailors in Hoi an and not sure where to start and which ones speak English. I would like to have some cotton/linen pants and shirts made. What is a reasonable price to pay? Also looking for someone to make a simple ... Read More
Shopping at the Metro in Danang
How much of a discount do you get with a Metro card? Last time I went, noticed the bill was higher than shopping at Lotto mkt for the same items though Metro seems more convenient in my opinion. Read More
best Banh Mi in Danang? by goreme
Where can I find the best tasting, freshest, safest to eat Banh Mi sandwich in Danang?
That's useful information to know. What are a few good places that you would recommend? I would like to try my luck at places with good reviews to mitigate any gastro-intestinal symptoms ;-) Read More
best Banh Mi in Danang? by goreme
Where can I find the best tasting, freshest, safest to eat Banh Mi sandwich in Danang?
The nice thing about the expat forums is that they provide a venue for people to share their ideas, recommendations and insights.. This is especially helpful to those who may be new to town and have limited experience in Vietnam. Learning by ... Read More
best Banh Mi in Danang? by goreme
Where can I find the best tasting, freshest, safest to eat Banh Mi sandwich in Danang?
Will have to try those places and thanks for sharing! Read More
looking for reliable Motorbike rental
Hi, Thanks for the location of motorbike rentals. I knew there had to be somewhere Danang where they were all located together. As for bread, do you have a favorite place to buy B谩nh m矛 sandwich? 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 ...
Totally agree, there is a method to the madness and the traffic flow here is unlike anything in western countries. If you come with sense of entitlement and western expectations of what is right/wrong, then you will be constantly frustrated and ... Read More
looking for reliable Motorbike rental
Thanks for the information. Here I was wasting time looking for a reliable motorbike shops when I shouldve contacted hotels in Danang! :) Read More
best Banh Mi in Danang?
Where can I find the best tasting, freshest, safest to eat Banh Mi sandwich in Danang? Read More
looking for reliable Motorbike rental
Are there any motorbike rental shops in Danang that rent newer motorbikes in good condition? Tried contacting some but few spoke English and their bikes didnt look reliable. Read More