Job Discussion Forums

[Robyn]

Hi everyone,

Just a quick (possibly ridiculous) question about taking holiday time around Christmas. I'm wondering if many people do book holidays and go home for Christmas? I'm assuming that the schools don't allow this because practically all of their teachers would dissapear at this time of year but I thought I would ask, just in case...

Thanks

[inhanoi]

It's not a public holiday in Vietnam (but New Year's Day is). Both days should be listed as paid holidays in your contract.

If you are among the first to put in for leave, then you should be able to take more time off than just the 25th. Most school schedulers expect these requests and they do realize the importance to us. Of course, they're not going to cancel classes, so someone will have to work, other than on the 25th.

[1st Sgt Welsh]

Hi Robyn,

It's not a ridiculous question at all. Particularly in the south, there are quite a few Vietnamese Christians (mostly Roman Catholics) but, for the most part, Christmas is a bit of a non-event here. If it is important for you to take leave around this time, I would just apply early. Most schools seem to adopt a 'first in, best-dressed' kind of policy when it comes to granting leave during popular times. Besides, December and January tend to be fairly quiet for most schools and things are beginning to wind down a bit for Tet. If it's a decent school, I can't see why they wouldn't accommodate you if they can. Good luck!

[Robyn]

Thanks very much! That's nice to hear, appreciate the feedback. Christmas is my favourite time of year but I love to experience other cultures as well so sometimes both don't mix but good to know there is always the possibility of having some time off.

Robyn