Job Discussion Forums

doublea71 · Joined: 10 Mar 2009 Posts: 23 Location: The 'Nam

Im coming to HCMC in May to take the CELTA and I'm wondering what is the best district to live in. I am most concerned about price and security-I don't care about proximity to night life since I don't drink. I am interested in shared living arrangements if anyone is looking to fill a room as well. If there are any sober expats in HCMC looking for a housemate, that'd be ideal. Any responses would be helpful. Thanks!

shanewarne · Joined: 21 Feb 2008 Posts: 146

when in May do you arrive? I may know a place in district 5 for you. Its in a modern apartment building and is only 5 mins ride from district 1. Let me know if you are interested.

mickeyrex · Joined: 03 Sep 2004 Posts: 65

Go to craigslist Vn.

thomas123 · Joined: 10 Mar 2008 Posts: 26

"If there are any sober expats in HCMC"

lol, good luck with that doublea71 (just kidding)

mcsensei · Joined: 11 Feb 2009 Posts: 31

District 3 is minutes, or seconds, from District 1 and a lot cheaper than District 1. District 10 and 5 are also nearby. IMO these are all reasonably safe areas. District 4 is also close but some will say that it is a little less safe.

doublea71 · Joined: 10 Mar 2009 Posts: 23 Location: The 'Nam

yeah i figured the chances of finding another ex-partier would be slim-no offense taken. im interested in any info anybody can send to me and i appreciate it all.

jimmiethefish · Joined: 12 Jun 2007 Posts: 29

The best area to live in is often one close to your work. Commuting longer distances in the motorbike horde can really get you down after a while. A lot of people also leap into the first apartment or house that comes along that seems OK. If you are prepared to wait and spend more time looking you would be more likely to find something that really suits and at a better price/with people you like living with. In the meantime, you could stay at a guest house and get used to having everything done for you.

As for security, I know far more people who have had their pockets picked or their handbag swiped than have had their homes broken into although it does happen. Apartment buildings have security guys of varying ability/trustworthiness. House security is usually a honking great front iron gate, lots of locks and bars on lower level windows, as well as sufficiently nosey neighbours.

You should get plenty of advice from your CELTA provider and some of the staff you'll be meeting. Also, once you get to know some Vietnamese people, their local knowledge can be very helpful in the housing hunt.

doublea71 · Joined: 10 Mar 2009 Posts: 23 Location: The 'Nam

hey jimmie-thanks for the advice-i really appreciate it.

Aaron