Job Discussion Forums

[Springtime]

Chao Everyone:
I'm an ex Peace Corps Volunteer who has had TEFL training and 2 years experience teaching in Senegal, Africa. This was many years ago so I assume I would have to get re-certified. Can I do this in Viet-Nam? How?
Secondly, I want to teach a bit to get involved with the people but don't want a heavy teaching load. Would a University setting be better. I have Master's Degree in another field and my husband is an RN.
Thirdly, it seems that the visa situation is complicated. Can we get a 3 month visa without a job and come and try to hook up once we are there and see where we want to live? What's the best source of visa information? Any suggestions?
Because my husband (a Viet-Nam vet) is a surfer, we're thinking of being around Hue and China Beach although our Vietnamese language teacher said there are some new breaks not far from HCMC. Are any of you surfers - any info for him?
Sorry for all the questions - I'm new to the forum and I admire all of you adventurous souls out exploring the world.
Springtime in California

[inky]

I can't help with the surfing unless you're referring to the internet, but the visa process isn't complicated at all. You can apply for a 6-month multi-entry tourist visa at the Vietnamese Consulate in San Francisco. You can get the application at their website and call them for the current fee (around $125).

Job prospects in Hue are slim, although if you're not looking for much money and only part-time hours then you could probably find something.

[BVD]

Hey springtime

As inky said, visa situation is not difficult. I did have issues with Cathay Pacific wanting me to show an exit ticket. Some airlines are sticky like that beauce Vietnam immigration states that all travellers need a ticket out. In reality, the immigration officers don't really care.

As far as surfing near HCM. It's pretty shitty. There are two places, Vung Tau and Mui Ne. But both of them are beach breaks, and there is often a strong on-shore wind which makes it terrible. That being said, I lived in VT for two years and actually learned how to surf there. There is a Russian run surf club that rent boards as well as wind boards and kites. It's not good, but it's there.
BVD

[Springtime]

Thank you for the responses. Six months is perfect for our first visit. I don't really want to teach until I find where we want to stay. I'll contact the Consulate in San Francisco. We've been thinking of taking a trip up there anyway. I had the impression that you could only get single entrance 30 day tourist visas. I have another question but it's another topic.
Springtime in California