Job Discussion Forums

[bon527]

Hello,

I will be in Saigon as of next Wednesday to start the job search with my 120 hour SIT TESOL. I am staying in District one and was in Saigon 5 years ago so I know it a bit.

However I don't know a soul and would like to remedy it. Would anyone be up for meeting up sometime after the 28th?
Bonnie

[mark_in_saigon]

There are places where the teachers hang out in District 1, of course the scene usually includes drinking and smoking. Mostly men also, and you may not be totally in tune with parts of their agendas.

I think it is nice to have at least one western friend when you live in VN, as the VN can never see their culture and your life here the way another westerner can, so it is like two children discovering the world together. It is nice to share that part with one of your own people, if you can find someone that is a good fit for you in terms of location, schedule and compatability of lifestyle/goals.

I have found that one of the most important (or maybe THE most important) keys to success, happiness and financial well being here is to have a trusted native friend. I think this person is a lot more important than the westerner. Mine eases my way at any first time use of a restaurant, mechanic, or almost any transaction. Mine saved my miserable life when I had a major medical issue, the incompetence of the system along with my own reluctance to jump into it had me very close to the edge. Of course, you can also put your trust into the wrong person, who can then just be strategically waiting for the moment to wipe you out.

Choose your friends wisely, it is probably better to have 2 good ones that you can trust than 10 casual acquaintances.

Don't even get me ranting on motorbike repair. Sometimes I think if you ever find a decent mechanic you should choose your employment based on his location. It is that hard to find one who actually knows what he is doing in a very profound way (especially working on an older classic). But, they are masterful at sticking a band aid on your butt and sending you back out on the street.

[1st Sgt Welsh]

Hi Bonnie,

If you don't have difficulties making friends where you are now then I can't see why you can't quickly make friends here. Probably a good idea to get to know your work colleagues and take it from there. Another option is to join a sporting team or something. A good teacher's hangout in HCMC is the 'Bread and Butter' in District 1. The owner/bartender is a great guy and is always up for a chat. There are also a lot of regulars, mostly guys, who often hang out there. It's just a suggestion but it might be an idea to check out the B & B a few times, hang out by the bar, be friendly and I'm sure you'll get to know a lot of new people in no time .

[bon527]

The Bread and Butter sounds great. Also, are there any good expat groups that you are aware of?

[1st Sgt Welsh]

Cool Bonnie. Might run into you at the Bread and Butter one night . In regards to your question this thread might help:

http://forums.eslcafe.com/job/viewtopic.php?t=88176&postdays=0&postorder