Steven
@Xaviar84
English expat in Vietnam
Forum posts
77
Contacts
5
About me
English
Lives in Ho Chi Minh City
Registration: 29 July 2013
Xanax in HCMC? by Xaviar84
Hi all, I tried asking this a while ago but sadly didn't get any replies. I have some long flights coming up over the next few months (which I hate!) and I am looking for a pharmacy that sells Xanax without a prescription. Somewhere in ...
Sorry I do not yet know where to buy Xanax but I imagine the other medication you need can be brought with ease at local pharmacies. Also, I've tried the flying courses before but had no success with them. Read More
Xanax in HCMC? by Xaviar84
Hi all, I tried asking this a while ago but sadly didn't get any replies. I have some long flights coming up over the next few months (which I hate!) and I am looking for a pharmacy that sells Xanax without a prescription. Somewhere in ...
By the way, I tried to contact a small local clinic to obtain some Xanax... they wanted me to see a Dr for a cost of $60 and then pay $10 per 0.25mg tablet! So expensive.. Does anyone know the generic name/local brand of Xanax in Vietnam? Read More
Xanax in HCMC? by Xaviar84
Hi all, I tried asking this a while ago but sadly didn't get any replies. I have some long flights coming up over the next few months (which I hate!) and I am looking for a pharmacy that sells Xanax without a prescription. Somewhere in ...
Thanks, I will check around... hopefully I can find some! Read More
Xanax in HCMC? by Xaviar84
Hi all, I tried asking this a while ago but sadly didn't get any replies. I have some long flights coming up over the next few months (which I hate!) and I am looking for a pharmacy that sells Xanax without a prescription. Somewhere in ...
Thanks.. sorry but the map link doesn't seem to work? I have sent you a private message... :) Read More
Xanax in HCMC? by Xaviar84
Hi all, I tried asking this a while ago but sadly didn't get any replies. I have some long flights coming up over the next few months (which I hate!) and I am looking for a pharmacy that sells Xanax without a prescription. Somewhere in ...
This is my backup plan :D .. although it is far easier if I can just buy a small amount of it otc rather than going through the hassle of seeing a Dr along with the associated fees to do so Read More
Xanax in HCMC? by Xaviar84
Hi all, I tried asking this a while ago but sadly didn't get any replies. I have some long flights coming up over the next few months (which I hate!) and I am looking for a pharmacy that sells Xanax without a prescription. Somewhere in ...
:lol: Thanks Dejavu but it is necessary medication.. Don't worry I am not addicted to the stuff, just need a little extra help for my dislike of flying! Read More
Xanax in HCMC? by Xaviar84
Hi all, I tried asking this a while ago but sadly didn't get any replies. I have some long flights coming up over the next few months (which I hate!) and I am looking for a pharmacy that sells Xanax without a prescription. Somewhere in ...
Thanks, no I haven't tried the pharmacies on HBT yet. I first wanted to check if anyone knew any pharmacies as it's easier if you know where to go rather than traveling around trying to find it :D Read More
Xanax in HCMC?
Hi all, I tried asking this a while ago but sadly didn't get any replies. I have some long flights coming up over the next few months (which I hate!) and I am looking for a pharmacy that sells Xanax without a prescription. Somewhere in ... Read More
Saigon River Club vs Star Fitness The Manor?
Hi all, I just moved to Binh Thanh District and I am trying to choose which gym to join... does anyone have experience with either Starfitness (The Manor) or Saigon River Club (Saigon Pearl)? I will be going to visit them both over the next few ... Read More
Getting your Driving and Motorbike License in Vietnam by dathancna
Ok, firstly, I'm not very sure if there has been any previous posts on this topic before but I would just like to put this information up for everyone out there who is looking for information. I just submitted all my documents today and am waiting ...
Thanks... I have actually been looking at the Visitor Bios 175... I've never heard of the brand though.. does anyone know if it any good? If it was easy to obtain the A2 then I was looking at a Benelli bn302 I think though for the time being I ... Read More
Getting your Driving and Motorbike License in Vietnam by dathancna
Ok, firstly, I'm not very sure if there has been any previous posts on this topic before but I would just like to put this information up for everyone out there who is looking for information. I just submitted all my documents today and am waiting ...
I drive from Binh Thanh district to Binh Duong and back everyday for work which is one of the reasons why I am considering a geared motorbike rather than a scooter.. but I will give it some thought before I make any decisions! Thanks all for the ... Read More
Getting your Driving and Motorbike License in Vietnam by dathancna
Ok, firstly, I'm not very sure if there has been any previous posts on this topic before but I would just like to put this information up for everyone out there who is looking for information. I just submitted all my documents today and am waiting ...
Thanks for the advice.. I know the PCX. I was working in Phuket for two years prior to moving to Saigon in December last year and had the opportunity to ride them a few times... nice bikes but I am really looking for a proper motorbike than a ... Read More
Getting your Driving and Motorbike License in Vietnam by dathancna
Ok, firstly, I'm not very sure if there has been any previous posts on this topic before but I would just like to put this information up for everyone out there who is looking for information. I just submitted all my documents today and am waiting ...
And is it a difficult process to get the A2 license for a foreigner? Perhaps I will stick with a 150 - 175cc bike! Read More
New friends in Binh Thanh District by Xaviar84
Hi all, I just moved to Binh Thanh district a few days ago (Xo Viet Nghe Tinh Street).. It would be great to make friends with any locals or expats who live in this area... lets go for a coffee, food or a beer! Please PM me if you're interested ...
Thanks for your comments guys... agreed it is not difficult to meet people when you have the free time to do so.. On the other hand, you can sometimes connect with people on here who you may never meet by walking around... never limit your options! Read More
Getting your Driving and Motorbike License in Vietnam by dathancna
Ok, firstly, I'm not very sure if there has been any previous posts on this topic before but I would just like to put this information up for everyone out there who is looking for information. I just submitted all my documents today and am waiting ...
Great to find a recent post on the procedure of obtaining a local license... I am just waiting for my company to complete my work authorization and I will do the same thing! Does anyone know the CC of bike you are allowed to drive once you have ... Read More
New friends in Binh Thanh District
Hi all, I just moved to Binh Thanh district a few days ago (Xo Viet Nghe Tinh Street).. It would be great to make friends with any locals or expats who live in this area... lets go for a coffee, food or a beer! Please PM me if you're interested ... Read More
Binh Doung Area - Lotte Mart ..... by E__
Hi guys. I think i will be spending more time here in VN now... i found it nicer here after my 13years living some places where i was..... Any buddies living near the newly popped-out Lotte Mart, Binh Doung area ??? Hook me up, we need more fun ...
Up until a few days ago I lived in Vinh Phu in Binh Duong (I work at a hotel here) Sadly, other than the Lotte Mart there is nothing really to do in this area. It is very industrial area and definitely not a great area for foreigners to live... but ... Read More
Flying medicine
Hi all, I am not really sure this is an appropriate topic for this forum so I wont go into too much detail just in case... I hate flying and have plans to take a short vacation to the UK within the next few months. I am looking to buy some ... Read More
Binh Thanh or Go Vap District?
Hi everyone, At the moment I am living in Vinh Phu in Binh Duong...my job is currently "live-in", however, next month I am allowed to rent a place of my own locally. I am looking at areas within a 10km radius to my work... and I am considering Go ... Read More
Why do some motor drivers don't look, before they go forward, Ahead? by spajcte
So today while i was driving, someone pulled right in front of me, so me trying to avoid to hit the person on the side, i slammed my brakes and skidded on the road, Hurting my Knee my elbow and braking my left side mirror. All i could see was his ...
I've only been driving over here a short time but the drivers that frustrate the hell out of me are the kamikaze motorbike riders who randomly pull out of a side street on to a busy road.. without the slightest glance behind to see if a vehicle is ... Read More
Any members in District 12 / Thuan An area?
Hi everyone, I tried posting this a month or two ago but thought I would try again as I sadly had no luck the first time! I recently moved to Vinh Phu in Binh Duong to start my new job.. (its very close to District 12). I don't know anyone in this ... Read More
Any members living in the Thu岷璶 An area?
Hi, I will be working as Rooms Division Manager at a hotel there Read More
Any members living in the Thu岷璶 An area of HCMC?
Hi everyone, I start my new job at the end of the week at a hotel in the Thu岷璶 An (Binh Duong) area.. I will be living in the hotel for at least the first two months, so it would be great to make friends with people who live in the area... ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
Maybe its because its not WIN DEN CHEW. The Vietnamese NG is really hard to pronounce. Try to stick to the NG from SONG and say Nwen Denhhh (keep its a long one) Cheuw (accent on the e). Nwen Denh Cheuw. Might help you. I would advise to have pen & ... Read More
Any members living in the Thu岷璶 An area?
Hi everyone, I start my new job at the end of the week at a hotel in the Thu岷璶 An (Binh Duong) area.. I will be living in the hotel for at least the first two months, so it would be great to make friends with people who live in the area... ... Read More
Criminal Background Checks by mtgmike
Hello, I'm applying for work as was asked by one company to supply a copy of my criminal background check. I'm an American so this is might be a bit of an ordeal? I read that if you've been in Vietnam for 6 months you can/must get a background ...
I was under the understanding that should you be living in Vietnam for over 6 months then a background check has to be provided from Vietnam, if under 6 months you have to provide one from your last place of residence.. I have not been living in the ... Read More
First visa extension by Xaviar84
Hi, I apologize if this question has been asked a thousand times... My first 3 month single entry visa is expiring in early March and I need to renew it for another 3 months. I have been quoted $68 for a new 3 month single visa or $170 for a new ...
Thanks Colinoscapee I start my new job at the end of the week... I'm guessing that a 3 month single entry will be ok for the time being as my employer will sort out my work visa/permit, etc... Read More
First visa extension
Hi, I apologize if this question has been asked a thousand times... My first 3 month single entry visa is expiring in early March and I need to renew it for another 3 months. I have been quoted $68 for a new 3 month single visa or $170 for a new ... Read More
Where do expat meet up? by Richard Loo
Many of us are newbie like your truly and we are fairly new in HCM. Is there any place where expats can meet up or gather together to exchange ideas and experience? The Metro -Lotteria or the new Parkson with Big C would be a good place? any ...
This seems to be true... Read More
Pay apartment rental by US Dollar or VN Dong? by big15096
When I was searching for apartments to rent. All rental rate was given in US Dollar. Are you paying them in US Dollar? or VN Dong?
Prior to moving in she told me it would be $250 a month.. but when I pay her the rent each month I simply convert it from USD and pay her in VND. I would not stay here if she insisted on me paying her in USD each month as it would be far too much of ... Read More
Budget by MrshyONE
I am trying to adjust my monthly budget and I was wondering if anyone who has been living in HCM can advise, currently I'm budgeting 84mil vnd per month for all expenses. Is this amount average , below average or too much,? Non drinker so that is ...
It all depends how you choose to live and what type of accommodation you like... I moved to HCMC in December and I would say that that is a huge budget... especially as you are single as well as a non drinker. I like to eat, drink and visit ... Read More
Why don't Vietnamese understand Vietnamese spoken by a foreigner? by I do believe
Having lived in Vietnam for 6 years and studied Vietnamese at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities it never ceases to amaze me that if I speak and pronounce a Vietnamese phrase perfectly to most Vietnamese, they don't understand me. ...
I only moved here in December and I live on Nguyen Dinh Chieu street... simple name right? My Vietnamese friends told me how I should pronounce this (similar to Win Den Chew) but it doesn't matter how I try to say this, sometimes over and over again ... Read More
Pay apartment rental by US Dollar or VN Dong? by big15096
When I was searching for apartments to rent. All rental rate was given in US Dollar. Are you paying them in US Dollar? or VN Dong?
I imagine it depends on the preference off the landlord.. mine quotes the prices in USD but I pay her in VND Read More
Criminal Background Checks by mtgmike
Hello, I'm applying for work as was asked by one company to supply a copy of my criminal background check. I'm an American so this is might be a bit of an ordeal? I read that if you've been in Vietnam for 6 months you can/must get a background ...
I am in a similar situation... I start my new job next weekend and I think it is likely that they will ask me for my background check however I have only been living in Sai Gon since early December 2013 and prior to this I was living in Thailand ... Read More
Is teaching English a good job for expats in Saigon? by mikeymyke
I was wondering how viable a job teaching English is for someone who doesn't know much Vietnamese, was born in Canada, and is married to a Vietnamese woman? Does it pay well and have enough hours working? Also are there a lot of opportunites? ...
Having been here for only a few months it does seem that teaching is perhaps the easiest option for foreigners looking for work, it is probably the backup option for many people who cannot find any other suitable work. I've heard from friends that ... Read More
First dates by Jquinoq
What are some impressive resturant to take a first date in HCM? Any other advice for first dates? :P
I would take my first date to a rooftop restaurant with a nice romantic view... away from the craziness and the incessant honking from the street below I've heard Shri Restaurant is quite good although I haven't been there yet to see for ... Read More
Hello Saigon by Xaviar84
Hi everyone, I'm a 29 year old English guy who recently relocated to Ho Chi Minh just two days ago having spent the last two years living in Thailand. I would love to meet fellow expats as well as some local Vietnamese people to really get to know ...
Thank everyone for the replies! Good to hear from you all... I have been living here for around 5 weeks now... still searching for a job here but there will hopefully be more opportunities coming available around Tet. Should anyone wish to meet up ... Read More
Gym near the zoo? by Xaviar84
Hi, I moved to District 1 on Nguyen Dinh Chieu street about 3 weeks ago and I am desperately looking for a local gym. I don't have a motorbike as yet so I am hoping to find somewhere locally I can walk to... I saw a gym on Nguyen Thi Minh Thai ...
Thanks for all the help.. Appreciate it! The gym is ideally situated for me.. I'm currently looking for work here so once this is hopefully found I can then get a motorbike and perhaps join another gym elsewhere in the city. Matthiasb.. Sorry for ... Read More
Gym near the zoo? by Xaviar84
Hi, I moved to District 1 on Nguyen Dinh Chieu street about 3 weeks ago and I am desperately looking for a local gym. I don't have a motorbike as yet so I am hoping to find somewhere locally I can walk to... I saw a gym on Nguyen Thi Minh Thai ...
Thank you Missmae... Yes, I cannot remember the name of it. It is actually a short walk from my home so it would be ideal for me to walk to. However, when i went past I didn't see any foreigners in there.. looks very Vietnamese style :lol: But I ... Read More
Gym near the zoo?
Hi, I moved to District 1 on Nguyen Dinh Chieu street about 3 weeks ago and I am desperately looking for a local gym. I don't have a motorbike as yet so I am hoping to find somewhere locally I can walk to... I saw a gym on Nguyen Thi Minh Thai ... Read More
Six Senses Latitude Saigon River?
No, it is not one of the other Six Senses properties. :) It is called Six Senses Latitude Saigon River... type it in to Google... there are also a few videos of it on Youtube.... All the websites I've come across say it is/was due to open late ... Read More
Six Senses Latitude Saigon River?
Are there any hoteliers on here? :D I moved to Saigon 3 weeks ago now and I'm currently looking for a new hotel role in the city. I read about a property called Six Senses Latitude Saigon River which was due to open in late 2013? Has anybody ... Read More
Gyms - Nguyen Dinh Chieu area?
Hi, I moved to Saigon 2 weeks ago now and have recently found a place to live on Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street in DIstrict 1. I do not have a motorbike yet and was wondering if anyone knew of any gyms in the area that are either walkable or a short ... Read More
50cc motorbike for rent in HCMC?
Thanks Missmae, I have sent Thien an email. I am not really a bike person so I'm not sure if automatic 50cc bikes exist in Vietnam.. I was riding a Honda Click 125i in Thailand for two years :D Read More
50cc motorbike for rent in HCMC?
Hi, I saw a post on this topic recently although sadly there were very few responses, so I thought I would try again... I moved to HCMC less than a week ago, I've finally found an apartment for rent and I am now looking at renting a small ... Read More
Hello Saigon
Hi everyone, I'm a 29 year old English guy who recently relocated to Ho Chi Minh just two days ago having spent the last two years living in Thailand. I would love to meet fellow expats as well as some local Vietnamese people to really get to know ... Read More
Blue Cross Vietnam Health Insurance?
Appreciate the advice... I guess it makes more sense to go to a hospital when I arrive and check out their insurance packages.. Read More
Blue Cross Vietnam Health Insurance?
Thanks for the advice Tran Hung Dao... I'm just worried that should an emergency happen I would not have any medical coverage. I was qouted $250 per year with the company above... do you know this cost compares to insurance issued through the ... Read More
Xmas by mikieunguyen
Everything seems boring right now! Anyone wants to hang out on Xmas day? Let me know by commenting on the box below! Btw, the more, the merrier!(;
I'm moving to HCMC next weekend (from Thailand)... I'm really interested in seeing what Christmas is like in Vietnam.. the last 2 have been rather non-existant for me over here in Phuket! :mad: Read More
Blue Cross Vietnam Health Insurance?
Hi, I will be moving to HCMC next weekend and I am looking at taking out some basic health insurance to cover me. One of the best quotes seems to be from a company called Blue Cross Vietnam (based in HCMC) which is offering me cover for less than ... Read More
Top hiring sectors in Phuket by Julien
Hi, let聮s talk about job opportunities in Phuket. What are the top hiring sectors? And according to you, what are the most promising job sectors, which will keep creating jobs in Phuket? Thanks in advance for sharing your ...
I echo the comments of Sting01 above... Phuket is incredibly expensive, it does have the ominous title as the most expensive place to live in Thailand afterall! I have lived here for 2 years but will be moving on to a new challenge in Vietnam come ... Read More
Expat Health Insurance in Vietnam?
I will be moving to Vietnam in December (from Thailand). At the moment I have health insurance cover through the hotel where I work but will loose that from the end of the month once I move to Vietnam. Can anyone recommend any good health ... Read More
Taking the leap by tintinmiami2013
Hi all, So I'm 11 months away from packing up and moving to HCMC, Vietnam. There are too many thoughts and concerns. I'm so excited, but nervous at the same time. My mind is spinning with logistical obstacles while my heart is dreaming of the ...
Good luck with your move... I'm "taking the leap" in December when I will be moving from Thailand to Ho Chi Minh City... Like you I am both nervous and excited at the same time! Read More
Taxi scam in Vietnam by Tran Hung Dao
[quote=Xaviar84]I will be moving to HCMC in December 2013... I work in the hotel industry and from what I've read there seems to be a massive boom in the hospitality industry at the moment. Hotels such as The Pullman, The Reverie and Le Meridien to ...
Well.. taxi scams, muggings, street crime, etc is rife throughout SE Asia not just Vietnam so I really doubt that that would put people off of visiting such a wonderful country. I live in Phuket and this happens week in, week out over here yet still ... Read More
Top hiring sectors in Ho Chi Minh City by Julien
Hi, let聮s talk about job opportunities in Ho Chi Minh City. What are the top hiring sectors? And according to you, what are the most promising job sectors, which will keep creating jobs in Ho Chi Minh City? Thanks in advance for sharing ...
I will be moving to HCMC in December 2013... I work in the hotel industry and from what I've read there seems to be a massive boom in the hospitality industry at the moment. Hotels such as The Pullman, The Reverie and Le Meridien to name but a few ... Read More
Cheap short term accomodation? by Xaviar84
Hi, I will be moving to HCMC in December...Can anyone recommend any fairly cheap hotels/guest houses or apartments that can offer me accomodation for my first 2 to 4 weeks in the city... or until I find a place to stay for the long term. Ideally ...
Thanks for the advice.. If anybody has been in a similar situation and can recommend the names of any hotels, etc that give a discount for a longer stay then please PM me. Read More
Cheap short term accomodation?
Hi, I will be moving to HCMC in December...Can anyone recommend any fairly cheap hotels/guest houses or apartments that can offer me accomodation for my first 2 to 4 weeks in the city... or until I find a place to stay for the long term. Ideally ... Read More
Expat life in Danang? by Xaviar84
Hi everyone, I may have the opportunity to work for a hotel in Danang although it is not guaranteed yet. I just wanted to know what life is like in Danang, I am guessing fairly quiet? Is there much more of an expat community? Is there a good ...
Thanks everyone for the advice... Still deciding whether to move to Danang area or if HCM is the better choice.. Read More
Expat life in Danang?
Hi everyone, I may have the opportunity to work for a hotel in Danang although it is not guaranteed yet. I just wanted to know what life is like in Danang, I am guessing fairly quiet? Is there much more of an expat community? Is there a good ... Read More
Is there anyone who can help me? by mab0918
Hi! 1. Is there anyone who can help me how to apply in this two hotels Pullman Saigon Centre and The Reverie (Time Square) ? This two hotels will open soon I want to work there. 2. Is this two hotels are still hiring? Thank you for those who ...
Hi Nga! I tried to PM you but your inbox is full :/ I also work in the hotel industry and I am looking to relocate to HCMC within the next few months.. Please can you PM me the email address of The Reverie HR department?? Read More
5 night stay in Vietnam - What visa?
Hi, I am from the UK, however I am currently living in Phuket, Thailand. I am in the process of arranging my first trip to HCMC with a view to possibly relocating there later this year. I plan to stay for 5 nights from the 18th Sept however I am ... Read More
Budget accomodation in District 1? by Xaviar84
Hi all, I am looking at taking my first trip to Vietnam in the middle of September. I currently live in Phuket Thailand but I'm considering moving to HCMC in the near future so I want to take a look at Saigon to see if its really a place I would ...
Thanks everyone for the advice... I guess I dont need a swimming pool, it would just be an added bonus! Can anyone suggest any good hotels in the areas mentioned above? I am looking to stay between the 18th and 23rd Sept and really want to get ... Read More
Budget accomodation in District 1? by Xaviar84
Hi all, I am looking at taking my first trip to Vietnam in the middle of September. I currently live in Phuket Thailand but I'm considering moving to HCMC in the near future so I want to take a look at Saigon to see if its really a place I would ...
Thanks for all the advice everyone! Really looking for to my trip to HCMC in September. I think it is definitely best to check out District 1, 2 and 3 whilst I am there. I'm planning to stay for 5 nights on my first visit just to get a feel for the ... Read More
Where is the best place to live in Thailand for rent, safety ect? by kpearson
My family and I want to move over to Thailand and I don't know what part is best? We have 3 small kids. Ages 6,5, and 1.5 years old. any help would be great. thanks
I've lived in Phuket for the past one and a half years. To be honest (some people may not like this comment) but I would skip Phuket completely... whilst it maybe great for the millions of tourists that visit... it is undoubtedly very picturesque ... Read More
Budget accomodation in District 1?
Hi all, I am looking at taking my first trip to Vietnam in the middle of September. I currently live in Phuket Thailand but I'm considering moving to HCMC in the near future so I want to take a look at Saigon to see if its really a place I would ... Read More
Relocating from Thailand to Makati, Cebu or Boracay? by Xaviar84
Hi everyone, Where to start.. So, I have been working in hotels for over 10 years now. I am currently working at a resort in Phuket, Thailand and have been living here for 1 and a half years. Although there are frustrations as with any country, ...
Thanks for the great reply Tzitsme! :) I currently work as Villa Manger however I have 10+ years experience throughout the Rooms Division department. I am currently considering the Philippines as well as Vietnam or Bangkok however I will ... Read More
Relocating from Thailand to Ho Chi Minh? by Xaviar84
Hi everyone, my first post here on the forum! :D Where to start.. So, I have been working in hotels for over 10 years now. I am currently working at a resort in Phuket, Thailand and have been living here for 1 and a half years. Although there are ...
Many thanks Colinoscapee, I will try and contact him Read More
Relocating from Thailand to Makati, Cebu or Boracay?
Hi everyone, Where to start.. So, I have been working in hotels for over 10 years now. I am currently working at a resort in Phuket, Thailand and have been living here for 1 and a half years. Although there are frustrations as with any country, ... Read More
Relocating from Thailand to Ho Chi Minh?
Hi everyone, my first post here on the forum! :D Where to start.. So, I have been working in hotels for over 10 years now. I am currently working at a resort in Phuket, Thailand and have been living here for 1 and a half years. Although there are ... Read More
Hi
Hi everyone, nice to meet you all. I am currently based in Phuket, Thailand although I'm considering relocating to Vietnam in the near future. Hoping to get some great advice here on this forum! :) Read More