This language is not easy, but will open a lot of doors if you can speak at least a few words.

The Vietnamese language.

Vietnamese is spoken by more than 100 million people worldwide, with the majority, 90 million plus speaking it as their first language.

“Vietnamese (Vietnamese: tiếng Việt )  is an Austroasiatic language that originated in Vietnam and is now the country’s official and national language. With about 90 million native speakers, it is by far the most spoken Austroasiatic language, at least seven times more used than Khmer, the next most spoken Austroasiatic language.

It is the Vietnamese (Kinh) people’s native language, as well as a second or first language for other ethnic groups in Vietnam. Vietnamese speakers can also be found in other parts of Southeast Asia, East Asia, North America, Europe, and Australia as a result of emigration”. Source, Wikipedia.

Why bother?

When you have the opportunity to travel, it is much more memorable if you get to experience life as a native. With your Vietnamese skills, you may engage in general conversation, cultural exchanges, and request suggestions with anybody you meet. 

Learning Vietnamese is kind of a running joke among the Vietnamese expat community. It is something that everyone considers. The majority of people attempt it. Only a few people are successful. And it’s not hard to see why.

To begin with, many Vietnamese city people speak English, to the point where you may not need to know a single Vietnamese word to get by. Or you know enough to buy a beer. (Bia)

Second, Vietnamese ican be a difficult language to learn. So many people abandon trying to learn after realizing they still can’t have a basic conversation after months of study.

With that stated, learning Vietnamese is possible, enjoyable, and well worth the effort.

If you learn Vietnamese you can locate the better restaurants. And you will have the ability to order the best Bun cha or Pho. Also you can find out what locals have to say about Tet  (Lunar New Year) or the Mid-Autumn Festival. And other events and activities that you’re interested in.

You can also learn about their practices and traditions, as well as their views on life. And you will blow their minds if you can talk with them in their language.

It is well worth taking the time to learn,at least, a few phrases. They will love you even if you try.

What is the difficulty level of learning Vietnamese?

Vietnamese is neither difficult nor simple to learn. It is  more realistic to describe Vietnamese as “an easy language” rather than a difficult language. However, one feature of the Vietnamese  that is difficult to master is pronunciation.

Why?, because it is a tonal language. There are six tones in the Vietnamese language.

There are six tones in Vietnamese that you need to learn and master when you learn Vietnamese.

• Mid-Level Tone     (Thanh Ngang).
• Low Falling Tone  (Thanh Huyền) .
• High Rising Tone  (Thanh Sắc) .
• Low Rising Tone   (Thanh Hỏi) .
• High Broken Tone (Thanh Ngã) …
• Heavy Tone           (Thanh Nặng)

But to reach this level, you’ll need to study pretty hard. This Vietinamese language is also related to Cuoi and has three distinct dialects. And these are the Hanoi (Northern Vietnamese) dialect,the Hue (Central Vietnamese) dialect, and the Saigon dialect (Southern Vietnamese). The Northern dialect is considered the better dialect as it is the Capitol city of Vietnam, and where the Government is situated.

Image of Hanoi. ( Stock photo )

The best ways to learn Vietnamese.

•  Become a member of a local Vietnamese community in your area.
  Attend a Vietnam cultural festival or meet local Vietnamese people. This will be useful in learning more about Vietnamese culture and finding someone to practice listening and speaking with.
•  Practice pronouncing the words.
  People develop a habit of pronunciation and speaking rhythm as a result of CD players with Vietnamese music, songs, and films. Vietnamese is a language that expresses meaning through a variety of tones.
• Enlist the help of a tutor to create a lesson plan.
  If you don’t have much money, hire a native Vietnamese speaker to speak with you many times a week and invite them to dinner.
• The best and quickest approach to learn Vietnamese is to spend more time in Vietnam.
• Study online.

Final Thoughts. 

Is it worthwhile to learn Vietnamese?

While it is true that learning to understand the six tones of Vietnamese as well as foreign vowels will take a lot of practice, don’t give up.  It is possible to learn Vietnamese and it is definitely worth the effort.

If you like this, check out my website for more information about Vietnam. ==> here <==

I hope this helps you in your decision to learn Vietnamese. If you need help, I can offer free lessons online.

Stephen.

Any or all links on this site maybe affiliate links, and if you purchase something through those links I will make a small commission on them.

There will be no extra cost to you and at times due to my affiliation you could actually save money.

You can read our full affiliate disclosure here.

National Teachers day.

Vietnam celebrates National Teacher’s Day on November 20th.

Is there a teacher who has had a significant and meaningful impact on your life? Someone who patiently helped you through a difficult topic or subject, or encouraged you to pursue your interests and passions?

If you answered yes, I don’t need to inform you about the immense gratitude that kids have for their teachers.

On National Teacher’s Day in Vietnam, pupils express their thankfulness, gratitude, and respect for their teachers.

In this article, you’ll learn why National Teacher’s Day is so important to Vietnamese students’ and teachers, as well as a little about the history of Teacher’s Day in Vietnam.

On this day, students’ pay tribute to their teachers by visiting them, presenting flowers, and sending messages. Many working people still visit their old schools and teachers, thus this day also serves as an opportunity for graduates to reunite and relive old memories while also discussing their present life.

Additionally, this is the day on which the ministries evaluate and award instructors who have excelled during the year.

When is National Teachers day.

In 1957, a group of Vietnamese educators and education professionals traveled to Poland to attend an international teacher’s conference. The first commemoration was held in 1958 to mark the 50th anniversary of that meeting. It evolved from there, and the day was formally titled Viet Nam Teachers’ Day in 1982.

Teachers day is historically held on the 20th of November. The first nationwide celebration in Vietnam was held on November 20th, 1982. From that day on, the 20th has become one of the most important and customary days for the country’s education sector. It commemorates every single individual who has contributed to the Education sector and celebrates their accomplishments in raising the next generation of students’.

Stories from Students

Here are some brief stories from students’ in Vietnam and their take on Teachers day.

These stories are unaltered and may contain some mistakes. But it gives a true feeling to how the students’ feel and think.

All nicknames were chosen by the students’.

May

Teachers Day is a special day for students’ send a thankyou to their teachers. In general, all schools in HCM city will give students’ the day off to organize and attend a ceremony and the afternoon will be a time for former students’ to visit the school and visit their teachers, for example. To me, I usually hang out with my friends or stay at home and sleep on Teachers Day. Because it’s rare that my school just gave us a day off.

Jenny

Teachers’ Day is November 20th. This is a day celebrated to express our gratitude to our teachers for their dedication and hard work. Students should respect their teachers, and Teachers’ Day is the perfect occasion to show teachers how much they appreciate them. This is an opportunity for students’ to express their gratitude and deep gratitude to their teachers.

Lisa

Teachers are our second parents. They deserve to be appreciated and respected, especially on Teachers Day- an occasion takes place on 20th November. On this day, most school hold events for students’ to give their teachers presents and also love. This is a big day in the field of education, one of the most meaningful days of the year.

Teacher Day Celebrations.

The Vietnamese Teachers’ Day holiday allows pupils to express their gratitude and admiration for their teachers. Concerts, recitals, and exhibitions are common events at schools. .

For the ceremonies, students’ also prepare food and flowers. Classes are frequently canceled for the day. In schools. However,.students’ often attend school in the morning and some also spend the whole day partaking in these joyful activities.

there are a slew of activities to commemorate this holiday.

Students’ will have been practising their performances and been preparing for several weeks prior to the day. You will see traditional costumes and dances along with the students’ version of K or V pop. All good fun and highly entertaining.

Some parents take advantage of this opportunity to meet and thank their children’s teachers.

Parents and students’ express their gratitude by bringing to school beautiful flowers and other gifts for teachers. Some students’ even decorate their own ‘thank you’ card to teachers.

Passing of “red envelopes” while officially frowned upon still happens in most schools. Although not so much for Foreigners. But do not be surprised if you have to carry home several bunches of flowers.

Lucky Money.

Teachers Day for Foreign Teachers.

Do you want to know if international teachers who work in Vietnam are recognized on this day? “Yes,” is the answer. Like other Vietnamese teachers, they will get blessings and presents from their pupils, parents, and the schools were they teach. They will receive all the love and respect that the Vietnamese people have for them.

You will be in awe by what occurs on Vietnam’s national teacher’s day. I have taught at schools were the students’ put on elaborate performances for the Teachers. And afterwards the teachers retreat into the hall and drink beer, eat and sing karaoke. An outrageously funny day.

“When I first heard about Teachers’ Day in Vietnam, I was surprised because we don’t have anything like this in New Zealand,” said Stephen, a teacher who has participated in several Teachers’ Day events in Vietnam.

“I think it’s fantastic that the children are doing so much for the teachers and acknowledging them. It’s always encouraging to watch our pupils put forth so much effort. Stephen Hey, a foreign teacher who has lived in Vietnam for nearly fifteen years, said, “All the teachers look forward to this day.”

Conclusion

I hope you learned something new about Vietnam Teacher’s Day while you were here with me. Is there a day set aside in your country to honor and thank teachers?

If that’s the case, how do you express your gratitude to your teachers? I eagerly await your response!

Learning about different cultures can be one of the most exciting and fulfilling aspects of traveling. If you’re looking for more cultural knowledge about Vietnam you will find these pages helpful.

Etiquette in Vietnam

Vietnam coffee culture

Food in Vietnam.

Many thanks for reading , Stephen.

You can check out my website here. ==> Vietnam <==

Any or all links on this site maybe affiliate links, and if you purchase something through those links I will make a small commission on them.

There will be no extra cost to you and at times due to my affiliation you could actually save money.

You can read our full affiliate disclosure here.

Covid

At the moment, no. But that is because of Covid. But when the planes are flying again this may help you avoid any potential trouble.

Vietnam.

Vietnam is a small and relatively unknown country in Southeast Asia, flanked to the west by many mountain ranges and to the east by a dazzling ocean. The country is currently known for its beautiful beaches, rolling rice paddies, and fast-paced cities.

Despite its tiny size, Vietnam’s long narrow shape provides great variety of scenery. The hilly north is known for its ancient ethnic minorities, rolling rice terraces, and towering limestone karsts. While central Vietnam is known for its sandy white beaches and UNESCO-listed historic towns. You will find some of the most refined and delectable food in Vietnam here as well.. The south of Vietnam is known for the Mekong Delta, fairy-tale islands, and cities that are a joy to visit and photograph.

Vietnam is a welcoming and safe country to visit. Your journey should be pleasant and trouble free if you use some common sense. Tourists frequently complain about aggressive street vendors, unfriendly tour guides, and unsafe driving. However, with a level head and careful planning, these issues can be avoided.

SOME DO’S

There are no cultural etiquette standards that a foreigner, as a tourist, is expected to know. Greetings are similar to those in Western countries. However, it is widely admired by the locals if you have some understanding of Vietnamese etiquette.

Vietnamese men and women dress conservatively. Despite the heat, it’s best to keep your skin hidden. If you do, especially if you’re a girl, you’ll be met with blank glances from the locals.

When visiting pagodas, be sure to dress appropriately. There will be no shorts or soiled beer t-shirts allowed. Shoes are OK, and you will only need to remove them on entering a home or pagoda. If you’re unsure, just do as the natives do.

Drink plenty of bottled water, particularly if you’re out sightseeing. There’s no need to lug around large bottles. A street vendor is never far away, and they’ll almost certainly find you before you find them.

SOME DONT’S

Don’t wear a lot of jewelry or carry a handbag. In Vietnam, violent crime is uncommon, but petty theft is more prevalent. You are a potential target if you carry a bag or wear a digital camera around your neck. I have personally had a bag stolen from me, while on the back of a Xe Om. (motorbike taxi)

If you’re taking a Xe Om (motorbike taxi), make sure your bag, if you have one, isn’t easy to take. Do not hang it off your shoulder. Put it on your lap. Bag snatching, while still uncommon, are the most likely crime a visitor will face, and the likelihood increases dramatically if you have a camera or laptop on display.

When going to temples and pagodas, avoid wearing singlets, shorts, skirts, dresses, or other revealing clothing. Treat it the same as if you are going to church on Sunday.

Public shows of affection between couples are frowned upon. As a result, you may see couples holding hands but not kissing or hugging. Although this is changing with the younger generation it is best, as a foreigner, to refrain.

In Vietnam, losing your cool means losing face. You’ll have a better chance of getting what you want if you keep your cool and stay polite.

Remember, this is Vietnam, a developing country, and things may not work as they do in your home country. Don’t be neurotic about your safety; instead, be alert of what’s going on around you.

You can check out more about etiquette in Vietnam. ==> here <==

Why come to Vietnam.

Vietnam is an ancient country that only the most daring of travelers ventured into until the 1980s. The country is currently enjoying its time in the sun, with tourism numbers exceeding 12 million in 2017, up 30% from the previous year. Although, obviously now, Covid has stopped all tourism.

But once the borders open and the planes start flying Vietnam will be a great choice. Simply put, these are a few of the hundreds of reasons why Vietnam should be on your travel bucket list

Easy to travel: With a reliable, economical, and extensive network of trains, buses, airlines, and local transportation, Vietnam is one of the most accessible countries in Asia. You may go from one area of the country to another using convenient public transportation, and no part of the country is closed to foreigners.

Beautiful: Vietnam is a beautiful country. Mountains, forests, jungles, beaches, islands, and national parks abound in the country. But even the cities are stunning in their own right. Just a few minutes in Hanoi, Vietnam’s bustling capital, and you’ll discover tropical flowers blooming out of antique buildings, quiet lakes, and exquisite pagodas.

Friendly: Vietnamese people are known for being friendly, courteous, and generous. As you see young and old chew the fat on small stools out in the open air, the elderly being cared for by their community, and brilliant grins on the faces of folks you merely pass on the street, visitors to the country will truly understand what makes Vietnamese culture so unique.

Foody paradise: Long overshadowed by Thailand, Vietnamese food is now beginning to make headway in foody circles across the rest of the world. And once you try it, you’ll understand why. Sweet, salty, sour and savory flavors are balanced to perfection in every dish, and the myriad accompaniments to every meal add freshness and personalization that you’ll struggle to find anywhere else on earth. you can find out more about the food of Vietnam here.

Affordability: Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries in Asia. In addition to being a cheap travel destination hotels, transportation, souvenirs, meals, drinks, and everything in between are shockingly inexpensive. As a result, more people can afford to visit Vietnam, as a small sum of money goes a long way.

Conclusion.

I have been living here for 15 years and highly recommend a visit to this wonderful exhilarating country. Add it to your list. You will not be disappointed.

Steve.

Feel free to leave any comments below.

Any or all links on this site maybe affiliate links, and if you purchase something through those links I will make a small commission on them.

There will be no extra cost to you and at times due to my affiliation you could actually save money.

You can read our full affiliate disclosure here.

When you come to Vietnam you will want to capture those moments that are special. The sights of Vietnam will blow you away.

There is always something interesting and colorful to capture. Will your smartphone be enough to really capture those moments of a lifetime. Let’s get into it.

Cameras vs smartphones.

You might be thinking right now that you don’t really need a travel camera because you already have one on your smartphone that goes everywhere with you.

Even while smartphone cameras are improving, there are still some times where they simply cannot match the quality of a good camera..

Sensors in cameras are larger than those in smartphones. Even cameras with a smaller sensor, such as Micro Four Thirds, have a lot more surface area to work with than a smartphone sensor.

This makes them ideal for low-light photography since they can record a wider dynamic range and more detail in the highlights and shadows.

The other major advantage of cameras over smartphones is that they can use an optical zoom lens. And this makes getting pin-sharp photographs of distant things considerably easier.

This greatly expands your shooting versatility and the variety of shots you can take.

Could you take a picture like this with a smartphone. It would not happen with the degree of sharpness in this picture.

Things to look for in a travel Camera.

Don’t get me wrong: I appreciate an excellent camera phone. However, a mirrorless camera, DSLR, or luxury compact camera will do a better job of capturing your once-in-a-lifetime moment.

Don’t limit yourself to a single-lens wide-angle lens if you can afford it.. Choose a camera and lenses that will allow you to photograph in a range of scenarios, such as a long-zoom compact or a mirrorless camera.

Size and weight: If you don’t want to lug around a heavy bag, a pocket-sized compact camera is a good option. If you’re going to be carrying your camera in a shoulder bag or backpack, a larger DSLR or mirrorless camera will produce superior results.

After size, the next thing you should think about is what you want to take a picture of.. A long zoom, for example, is useful on safari, whereas a tiny, light, and fast camera (preferably with prime lenses) is excellent for capturing quick photo possibilities in the city.

The best travel cameras combine performance and portability to enable you to shoot in a variety of situations and conditions.

Simplicity: When on vacation, not everyone wants to worry about fiddling with camera settings. Everyone can utilize the full auto modes on all of the cameras on this list.

If your vacation is likely to include a lot of bumps, water, and bad weather, you’ll want to look at durable compacts like the Olympus TG-6, or an action camera like the GoPro Hero 9 Black if video is your primary concern.

Price: The cameras on my list come in a variety of pricing ranges but choose wisely. Remember, you only get what you pay for.

My favorite toys.

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

We focus on portability when choosing the best travel camera, and the tiny yet powerful Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is one of the best portable cameras available. It not only has a remarkably light body with tactile dial led controls, but it also employs the Micro Four Thirds sensor.

While this has significant drawbacks in terms of low-light performance, it practically doubles the focal length of any lens attached to the camera; for example, a 50mm lens will behave like a 100mm lens.

This goes a long way in vacation photography, allowing you to keep your gear size down.  It has a lot to offer.

Its quick burst shooting, precise autofocus, and stunning 4K video makes it a fantastic camera in every way.

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: Mirrorless Sensor: Micro Four Thirds

Megapixels: 20.3MP

Screen: 3 inch tilting touchscreen, 1.04million dots

Viewfinder: EVF

Max burst speed: 8.7 fps Max

Video resolution: 4K

Level: Beginner/enthusiast

Price. $799  At  ==> Amazon <==

Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200

Panasonic’s solution to the rise of high-end compacts like the excellent Sony Cyber-shot RX100 V, which have stolen the thunder from compact travel zooms, has been to maintain the camera body at the same size as its prior ZS/TZ-series cameras but squeezing in a considerably larger sensor.

We saw this with the Lumix ZS100 (known outside the US as the Lumix TZ100), and Panasonic has continued this trend with the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200.

This physically larger 1inch sensor allows for significantly greater image quality than would otherwise be possible, but the lens’ zoom range isn’t quite as vast as some others with smaller sensors.

Despite this, the ZS200 / TZ200 has a very useful 15x zoom, as well as a helpful built-in electronic viewfinder that makes composing shots in strong light easier. Although it’s a little on the pricier side, this is still one of the greatest travel zoom small camera on the market right now.

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: 1 inch type

Megapixels: 20.1 MP

Screen: 3 inch touchscreen, 1.24 million dots

Viewfinder: EVF

Max burst speed: 10 fps Max

Video resolution: 4K

Level: Beginner/ Intermediate

Price. $699.66  At  ==> Amazon <==

Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VII

The original RX100 redefined premium compact cameras by being the first pocket-sized camera to include a huge 1.0-inch sensor. They were always wonderful for travel, but because of the limited zoom lens, they may have been disregarded in favor of other models.

Things changed when we got to the RX100 VI, which paired a far longer lens than ever before – and now the RX100 VII has undergone some improvement.

The incredibly wide aperture of earlier generations has been sacrificed to make the lens longer, but if you’re mostly going to be shooting in sunny climates, it might not be such a huge concern.

Under the hood of the RX100 VII, there’s a lot of power. It has features you may never use, such as a ludicrous 90fps burst mode, as well as more usual features, such as 4K video.

The major disadvantage of this model is its  price, but if you want the best of the best for your travels, it might be the one for you.

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: 1 inch type

Megapixels: 20.1 MP

Lens: 24 – 200 mm

Screen: 3 inch tilting touchscreen, 924 K dots

Viewfinder: EVF

Max burst speed: 90 fps Max

Video resolution: 4K

Level: Intermediate

Price.  $1,298.00  At ==> Amazon <==

Panasonic Lumix GX80 / GX85

The Panasonic GX80/ GX85 is a tiny and light camera with a typical rectangular ‘rangefinder’ design. Make sure you purchase it with the Panasonic 12-32mm f/3.5-5.6 G VARIO ASPH. retractable kit lens.

In 35mm terms, this is similar to 24-64mm, providing a slightly smaller zoom range than a standard kit lens in a much smaller compact.

The GX80 can easily fit into a large pocket, thanks to the Micro Four Thirds sensor, which allows for this shrinking.

Physical controls include a tilting screen with touch sensitivity and a pop-up flash alongside a hotshoe, most functions are handled via buttons and menus rather than dedicated dials.

If you have room in your suitcase for a small compact camera this will be perfect..

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: Mirrorless Sensor

Megapixels: 16 MP

Lens: Micro Four Thirds

Screen: 3 inch tilting touchscreen, 1.04 million dots

Max burst speed: EVF Continuous shooting speed

Video resolution: 4K

Level: Beginner Enthusiast

Price.  $597.99  At  ==> Amazon <==

Canon EOS M50 Mark II

Canon’s EOS M line used to feel like an afterthought, but it’s come a long way, and these lightweight, cheap mirrorless cameras are now a great choice for travelers.

Thanks to its high-resolution APS-C sensor, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a powerful stills and video camera. It’ll handle most shooting scenarios with ease, and its sleek design is attractive as well.

A clean HDMI out, the ability to shoot vertical video and the ability to live-stream to YouTube are just a few of the camera’s video features.

The only major drawback is that the camera’s 4K is subpar, with shaky autofocus and the 1.6x crop factor that has hampered so many Canon launches. This is a good buy if you don’t need to shoot 4K on your trips..

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: DSLR Sensor

Megapixels: 24.1 MP

Lens: Canon EF- Mount system

Screen: 3 inch fully articulating LCD touchscreen

Viewfinder: EVF

Max burst speed: 10 fps Max

Video resolution: 4K

Level: Beginner to Enthusiast

Price. $719.00 Bundle  At  ==> Amazon <==

Nikon D3500

Nikon’s latest entry-level DSLR is the D3500. It misses a few capabilities, most notably a vari-angle rear screen and 4K video, as compared to the Canon EOS Rebel SLR/250D, but it’s a lot cheaper, so these differences won’t matter to many customers.

If you go with the D3500, make sure it comes with Nikon’s retracting 18-55mm AF-P VR lens .

And if you’re going traveling, you might want to consider Nikon’s affordable and lightweight 10-20mm AF-P lens as well – it’s great for narrow streets, expansive interiors, and tall buildings and landmarks.

The Nikon D3500 can only shoot full HD video, not 4K, and its live view autofocus isn’t as advanced as the Canon EOS Rebel SL3/250D’s, but if you’re only interested in stills and prefer to utilize the viewfinder over the rear screen, the D3500 is a great deal.

SPECIFICATIONS

Type:  DSLR Sensor

Megapixels: 24.2 MP

Lens: Nikon F

Screen: 3 in one fixed

Max burst speed: 5 fps Max

Video resolution: 1080 p

Level: Beginner Intermediate

Price. $609  At  ==> Amazon <==

Sony A6100

The Sony A6100 is arguably the finest blend of size, shooting power, and value right now if you don’t mind carrying something slightly larger than a pocket camera on your travels.

It isn’t perfect, but it checks most of the boxes for globetrotting photographers. Despite its small size, this entry-level mirrorless camera comes with a slew of handy features, like configurable buttons and a microphone input, as well as a flip-up touchscreen that, while restricted in functionality, is excellent for framing long-distance selfies.

The 24.2MP sensor, when combined with a suitable lens, produces decent shots with plenty of information, while the AF system which is shared with the flagship A6600  assures consistently accurate focus and outstanding continuous tracking.

Even while shooting on the move the A6100 can also take 4K footage at 30fps, albeit there is no IBIS. The battery life is good, as is the Wi-Fi, which works nicely with the companion app for sharing holiday photos quickly.

The relatively low-res EVF and LCD, as well as the Auto ISO, which might struggle with fast-moving subjects It’s preferable to shoot street action in full manual mode.

The A6100 comes close to achieving travel perfection, with decent value, strong features, and a bag friendly design..

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: APS-C CMOS Sensor

Megapixels: 24.2 MP

Screen: 2.95-inch tilt-angle

Max burst speed: 11fps Movies

Video resolution: 4K

Level: Beginner Intermediate

Price. $869.95  At  ==> Amazon <==

Sony ZV-1

The Sony ZV-1 is one of the the best pocketable alternatives if you’re primarily interested in shooting trip video rather than stills. It brings together the best video-focused capabilities of Sony’s RX100 series.

Sony’s most recent autofocus system is arguably the best in a tiny camera. The ZV-1 is less convenient for stills shooters than the RX100 VII due to the lack of an electronic viewfinder.

But it’s still a decent camera and better than most smartphones thanks to its 20.1MP 1-inch sensor.

The ZV-1’s brilliant 24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 lens and Real-time Eye AF are ideal for capturing professional, smartphone-beating vlogs, but it’s video where it really shines.

A 3.5mm microphone jack ensures that the audio quality matches the visual, and a built-in hot shoe allows you to mount a lot of extra stuff.

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: Compact 1 inch sensor

Megapixels: 20.1 MP

Lens: 24 – 70 mm f1.8 – 2.8.

Screen: 3 inch tilting touchscreen

Viewfinder: None

Max burst speed: 24 fps Movies.

Video resolution: 4K

Level: Beginner/enthusiast

Price. $703.00  At  ==> Amazon <==

GoPro Hero 9 Black

An action cam should be at the top of your list if you require a small, pocketable video camera that can handle pretty much whatever your journey throws at it. Right now, the GoPro Hero 9 Black is the most powerful and versatile.

This is the only GoPro with a front-mounted color display, which comes in useful for framing your journey highlights. It also has a larger battery and several new software tricks when compared to the more cheap Hero 8 Black (which is also worth considering).

Hind Sight catches the action 15-30 seconds before you press the shutter, and Hyper Smooth 3.0 stabilization, which smooths out even the most juddery mountain bike footage, are two of these features. In addition, the 5K video mode captures more detail than any other GoPro, and the Linear shooting mode corrects wide-angle distortion to make film look like it was shot with a more traditional camera.

The sensor of the Hero 9 Black is smaller than those available in luxury compacts and mirrorless cameras, and it is geared more toward video than stills. However, if you primarily want to capture video, the compact size, 10m waterproofing, and compatibility with a variety of attachments all help you get shots that are otherwise impossible to achieve with other travel cameras.

SPECIFICATIONS

Weight: 158g

Waterproof: 10m

Video 4K

Burst speed up to 60fps1080: up to 240fps 720: up to 240fps

Stills resolution: 20MP

Battery: 1720mAh

Price. $349.99  At  ==> Amazon <==

Olympus Tough TG-6

For some travelers, a camera that can withstand water, ice, dust, rain, and even collisions is all that matters. The Olympus TG-6 may lack the zoom range and huge sensors of the other cameras on our list, but if your trip photography focuses on adventure rather than tourism, the TG-6 is likely to be a better fit.

The TG-6 will survive a lot more punishment than the ordinary compact because to its waterproof, crush-proof, shockproof, and freeze-proof build, but it’s not just its tough credentials that excite.

Raw photography and 4K video recording are both uncommon on waterproof compacts, and the 12MP sensor’s pixel count was purposefully reduced over previous models to make it generate better results.

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: Compact Sensor

Megapixels: 12 MP

Lens: 25 – 100 mm

Screen: 3 inch

Water proof. 3 meters.

Shock proof.  2.1 meters

Freeze proof 10º C or14° F

Video resolution: 4K

Level: Beginner

Price. $449.00  At  ==> Amazon <==

Conclusion

While I have tried to be as fair as possible in the comparisons it is sometimes like comparing apples to bananas.If you wish to leave any comments feel free to reply below.

Maybe you are thinking. What does Steve use. I have the Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VII. And it is a brilliant camera. if you want to look at some of the pictures I have taken in Vietnam, you can look ==> here <==

Steve.

Any or all links on this site maybe affiliate links, and if you purchase something through those links I will make a small commission on them.

There will be no extra cost to you and at times due to my affiliation you could actually save money.

You can read our full affiliate disclosure here.

Enjoy.

It’s time to relax and enjoy your retirement after years of hard work. Choosing where to spend this time is always a challenge. The information in this post will assist you in determining why you should retire in Vietnam.

In contrast to neighboring countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, which offer retirement visas for seniors, Vietnam has few retirement visa choices. However, foreigners can still retire and live in Vietnam if they take advantage of the long visas and flexible conditions.

Pros and Cons of living in Vietnam.

I have been living here for 15 years and am married to a Vietnamese lady. I am 63 years old and have an English school in Ho Chi Minh City. For me this was the best move I ever made. Let’s delve deeper.

Pros.

Vietnam is one among the top ten countries in the world with the lowest living costs. With the money you’ve set aside for retirement, you’ll be able to enjoy exquisite meals, great holidays and comfortable living.

A lot of people think Vietnamese food is one of the most delicious and unique cultural elements of the country. Vietnamese food, like traditional Asian dishes, caters to all aspects of customers’ health and psychology. With the added bonus of tasting great.

Every Vietnamese cuisine combines five distinct flavors: salty, sweet, sour, spicy, and bitter. You will have a vivid and unforgettable experience as soon as you bite into that first Banh Mi or a bowl of Pho.

Also, Vietnam is a country that stretches over 2,000 kilometers from south to north with a rich abundance of beautiful beaches and cooler climes in the west. You can decide the climate you prefer and find a City to live in within that area.

Cons.

Vietnamese culture and Western culture have many differences. Without first learning, you may be in for a cultural shock. The more you know about the differences between Western and Vietnam cultures, the easier it will be for you to integrate and make more friends.

Foreigners must adhere to a number of severe restrictions while applying for a visa in Vietnam. Foreigners who plan to retire in Vietnam, for example, are only allowed tourist visas with a duration of one to three months.

You can apply for a visa exemption for a maximum of 5 years if you have a Vietnamese parent or spouse. If you want to stay longer, you must apply for a new visa when your current one expires.

Also, Vietnam has a lot of traffic and pollution issues. These two issues are being worked on by the Government but it will take time to resolve them. You should psychologically prepare yourself if you plan to stay here for a long time.

How much does it cost.

According to a recent International Living rating, most foreigners can easily live in Vietnam on $800 to $1,200 per month. If you have $200,000 in savings, that would last you roughly 20 years. The following items are included in your retirement cost of living in Vietnam:

Monthly costs A quick overview.

Rent and costs for an average apartment/house go from $200 to $600 each month.

Meals range from $5 to $100 USD, and could be more if you want to eat in a 5 star hotel. Otherwise, food is cheap in Vietnam.

$100 for groceries a month or more if you want a lot of “foreigner food”

If you want to go out once a week to eat and have a couple of drinks, : $50 or cheaper depending on what you want to eat.

Vietnam’s best retirement destinations

The following destinations are great places to retire in and lead a peaceful lifestyle. These places have a relaxed atmosphere and slower pace of living than the major cities.

What are the best places to retire in Vietnam? I think these are the top 5 cities in Vietnam to retire in.

Nha Trang is a seaside city in Vietnam.

The ideal environment for you to relax and live happily. The beach city of Nha Trang is ranked as one of the most appealing places for retirees based on these criteria.

There are lots of local sites that are both interesting and fun to visit. Just remember to take off your shoes when entering any building, like a pagoda or someones house.

Ponagar Tower, Mineral Springs, Institute of Oceanography, Long Son Pagoda, Bao Dai Palace, and many other interesting and great places for the Ex Pat make this seaside city a great place to visit or live.

Phu Quoc is known for being a tranquil getaway.

A beautiful pearl in the center of the sea. You will find this Island off the South Coast of Vietnam. It has beautiful beaches such as Sao beach, Ganh Dau beach, Long beach, Ong Lang beach, Thom beach… and it is great for swimming or any sea and beach activities.

Meals here are fantastic because of the fresh seafood and the rich culinary tradition. Visiting Ham Ninh fishing town or visiting the semi-wild park, which opened at the end of 2015 is an amazing unique experience that will knock your socks off.

Da Nang, voted Vietnam’s most easy living city.

Da Nang provides a perfect living environment for the elderly Ex Pat. The city is clean and lovely, and the beaches are among Southeast Asia’s cleanest, safest, and most appealing. Despite its rapid development, this location maintains a tranquil atmosphere.

The attraction of Danang is a combination of wide highways, open sidewalks for pedestrians, and the Han River flowing through the heart of the city. This creates stunning scenery and along with a mild climate it makes Da Nang very livable. The standard of living is excellent, while the expense of living is low. You can easily travel from Da Nang to Hue, Hoi An ancient town, and My Son sanctuary. My Son is an Ancient site and can be hot, but well worth visiting.

Hue the Ancient Capital.

People’s lives in Hue’s old city are like the Huong River: leisurely and tranquil. In addition to the mausoleums and temples, the environment here includes historic residences and tree-lined streets. All of which contribute to a relaxed atmosphere. Because of this it is a very welcoming environment for the traveler in us all.

Most afternoons you can hear the Thien Mu bell or you can stroll into the old ruins and sit and listen to the stories about this historical city. You will have some fascinating experiences in Hue if you decide to live here. Also, the cuisine is unique to the region and very well-suited to the tastes of the culinary inclined.

Hoi An, some like it hot.

The weather is hotter in the center of Vietnam, but Hoi An has the advantage of being a great shopping town.

The quiet corners of the old town are the highlight of Hoi An and will provide a relaxing atmosphere for the people who wish to live here.

You will be living close to rural landscapes. The lifestyle here is very laid back and you can relax over a bowl of Pho or a coffee.

The Japanese historically chose the Dien Ban district of Hoi An as the location for their retirement. This can be a great place to retire to. However, it can be busy at times with foreign travelers.

Obtaining a retirement visa for Vietnam

In recent years, Vietnam’s visa policy has improved significantly. It is, however, still lacking. For foreigners who intend to retire in Vietnam, there is currently no specific visa regulation in place. Foreign retirees who want to live in Vietnam confront a slew of challenges related to official visa requirements.

Due to the lack of a Vietnam retirement visas, foreigners wishing to retire in Vietnam can only apply for a tourist visa, which has a period of 1 to 3 months or 5 years ( If their parents or spouse is a Vietnamese citizen). And you maybe subject to visa run requirements.

What is a visa run.

A visa run is when an ex pat has to leave the country and travel to Cambodia or Lao or Thailand to get another extension on their Visa.

Conclusion.

In my opinion Vietnam is a great place to retire. However, you must be able to accept differences in cultural attitudes as well as some small societal challenges. If you can get your head around that you will find Vietnam and it’s people to be very welcoming.

Before you make up your mind check out some other things about Vietnam below.

Food in Vietnam.

Etiquette in Vietnam.

Maps of Vietnam.

The coffee culture.

Apartment rentals.

Also if you are looking for additional income while living in Vietnam check out my other website. Hope it helps. My other website..

If you have any questions about this please leave comments below.

Stephen

Any or all links on this site maybe affiliate links, and if you purchase something through those links I will make a small commission on them.

There will be no extra cost to you and at times due to my affiliation you could actually save money.

You can read our full affiliate disclosure here.

What is a Chromebook?

Chromebooks are a new sort of computer that is designed to make tasks go more quickly and easily. They run Chrome OS.

A system that includes cloud storage, Google’s greatest features, and numerous layers of protection. When your Chromebook isn’t connected to the Internet, you can utilize offline-ready apps to keep using your Chromebook.

What’s the difference between a laptop and a Chromebook?

Chromebooks are laptops and two-in-one computers that run Google’s Chrome OS. The hardware may resemble any other laptop, but the Chrome OS’s simple, web-browser-based interface is a far cry from the Windows and MacOS machines you’re probably used to.

Whether you’re thinking about converting from a Windows laptop or MacBook to one, your child got one from school, or you’re just curious about Chrome OS, here’s all you need to know.

The History of Chromebooks.

Chrome OS was essentially Google’s Chrome web browser when it first launched. For people who are used to operating systems like Windows and Mac, the average Chromebook appears to be nothing more than a laptop that runs a web browser.

Chromebooks were widely mocked when they originally debuted in 2011 for their limited functionality and need on a constant internet connection.

This year marks the eleventh anniversary of the operating system, and while today’s Chromebooks are a long way from their origins, some things haven’t changed, and you may not be willing to work around the limits that they do have.

Access to Microsoft Office is one of the major roadblocks for many people. Although the entire Office software can not be installed on a Chromebook, Microsoft provides web-based and Android versions in the Chrome and Google Play stores.

But don’t buy a Chromebook if you require or desire a specific Windows or Mac application and there isn’t a good online or Android app equivalent and don’t buy one if you want to utilize VMware.

You’ll also need a Windows, Mac, or Linux laptop if you want an extensive photo and video editing feature.

Basic photo and video editing is good, but Chromebooks often lack the graphical horsepower required for difficult activities. And they may not have the ability to run Windows or Mac apps and games.

Chromebooks, on the other hand, may now be used for more than Android and browser-based games thanks to streaming-game services like Google Stadia, Nvidia GeForce Now, and Xbox Cloud Gaming. You can also install and play Linux games, but this will require a higher-end Chromebook.

Additionally, various Android photo and video editing apps are available, including Adobe choices.

What is a good chromebook?

Several years ago, regardless of who produced them, all Chromebooks were pretty much the same. Now, a much wider range of laptops and two-in-ones are available to take advantage of Chrome OS present capabilities.

When it comes to Windows laptops, you’ll still find more sizes and styles, especially if you need higher processing and graphics capabilities, but the selection of Chromebooks is now much better than in the past.

If you just want a pleasant basic experience with a Chromebook then the compact, lightweight OS, as well as web apps, have low hardware requirements.

Quicker, higher-end processors, more memory, and more storage for files and apps are all advantages. but you pay for them.

I would recommend at least..

4GB of RAM or more Intel Celeron or Core i-series, AMD Ryzen or MediaTek CPUs

64 GB of storage space

Display resolution: 1,920×1,080-pixels

These suggestions are open to interpretation. You can purchase a display with a resolution of 1,366×768 pixels, for example, but the low-cost ones seen in low-end Chromebooks look particularly soft when compared to full-HD machines.

And if there’s a microSD card slot to augment it or you don’t expect to download a lot of Android apps, you can get by with 32GB of onboard storage. Unlike a typical laptop, a Chromebook stores files in the cloud rather than on the local hard drive.

It’s also worth mentioning that storage and RAM are frequently soldered on and cannot be upgraded.

Do Chromebooks need to be connected to the internet?

When Chromebooks originally came out, they were effectively paperweights when they were offline, which was a huge problem if you were in the middle of writing an important document and your internet connection failed.

Things have luckily improved since Google enhanced its offline capabilities, and popular apps such as Netflix, YouTube, and Spotify now have offline capabilities as well.

Are Chromebooks affordable?

Chromebooks can be lighter and smaller than the conventional laptop because to Chrome OS’s modest hardware needs, and they’re also generally less expensive.

New Windows laptops under $200 are hard to come by, and they’re rarely worth the money. On the other side, finding a good $200 Chromebook is relatively simple (or at least it was prior to COVID).

Even while paying more will bring you a higher build quality, more features, and faster performance, premium Chromebooks normally cost between $400 and $500, but can potentially cost over $1,000 depending on your needs.

Laptop vs Chrome book.

When it comes to Windows laptops, you’ll typically need to spend $700 or more to get a thin, lightweight model with adequate performance and battery life that will last for years.

Laptop.under $600

We’ve found the laptop deal for you if you need a workhorse in an amazingly beautiful shell. The MSI Prestige 14 Evo with an Intel Tiger Lake Core i3 costs $599 on ==> “>Amazon<==. That’s a savings of $200 off the regular price of this sleek Evo notebook. But it will not last long at this price.

My top 3 Chromebook choices.

Lenovo Flex 5 | Under $400.

If you require a laptop for all-day use, the Lenovo 13-inch Chromebook two-in-one is a better option than the Duet. Thanks to an Intel Core i3-10110U processor, 4GB of RAM, and a 64GB solid-state drive.

It features a full HD display as well as good performance and battery life for the money. But because of its dull display, the Lenovo Flex is not a good choice for outdoor use. Check it out here. ==> Amazon <==

Key Details

• Processor : Intel® Celeron® 5205U Processor (1.90 GHz, 2 Cores, 2 Threads, 2 MB Cache)
• Operating System : Chrome OS
• Graphics : Integrated Intel® UHD Graphics
• Memory : 4 GB DDR4 2400MHz (Soldered)
• Storage : 32 GB eMMC
• Display : 13.3” FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS, glossy, touchscreen, 250 nits
• Camera : 720p HD
• Battery : 4 Cell Li-Polymer
• AC Adapter : 45W
• Pointing Device : Click Pad
• Keyboard : US – English
• WLAN : 802.11AX (2 x 2)
• Bluetooth : Bluetooth® 5.0
• Warranty : 1 year Mail-in
• Color : Graphite Grey

Acer Chromebook Spin 713 | Under $700

Are you fed up with attempting to work on papers or spreadsheets on a small widescreen monitor? The Acer Chromebook Spin 713 has a 13.5-inch 2,256×1,504-pixel touchscreen with a 3:2 aspect ratio, which is one of Acer’s brilliant Verti View displays.

It gives you extra vertical workspace, as the name implies, but it still has the width of a conventional 13.3-inch laptop with a 16:9 ratio. You’ll be able to get more work done in a day thanks to this and its battery life, which lasts nearly 13 hours., yet it’s still small and light enough for everyday use. ==> Amazon<==

• Processor : Core i5
• Operating System : Chrome OS
• Graphics : Integrated Intel  UHD Graphics
• Memory : 8 GB Shared
• Storage : 128 GB
• Display : 34.3 cm (13.5″) CineCrystal (Glare) In-plane Switching (IPS) Technology
• Battery : 3 Cell Li-Polymer Lithium Ion (Li-Ion). Maximum Battery Run Time.10 Hour
• AC Adapter : 45W
• Pointing Device : ClickPad
• Keyboard : US – English
• WLAN : IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax
• Bluetooth : Bluetooth 5.0
• Warranty : 1 year carry-in
• Color : Steel Grey

Best Chromebook for playing games.

Asus Flip CM5

Chromebooks aren’t usually connected with video games. You now have a lot of options, with cloud gaming services like Stadia, GeForce Now, and Xbox Game Pass running on Chromebooks alongside Android mobile apps and Linux games.

And the Asus CM 5 is ready for them at ==> Amazon.<==.

• • Processor : AMD Ryzen™ 3 3250C Processor 2.6 GHz (4M Cache, up to 3.5 GHz, 2 cores)
    AMD Ryzen™ 5 3500C Processor 2.1 GHz (4M Cache, up to 3.7 GHz, 4 cores)
  • Operating System : Chrome OS
  • Graphics : AMD Radeon Graphics
  • Memory : Options.
    4G DDR4 on board
    8GB DDR4 on board
    16G DDR4 on board
    8GB DDR4 on board,Memory Max Up to:16GB
  • Storage : Options
    64G eMMC
    128GB M.2 NVMe™ PCIe® 3.0 SSD
    256GB M.2 NVMe™ PCIe® 3.0 SSD
  • Display :
    Touch screen,15.6-inch,LCD,FHD (1920 x 1080) 16:9,IPS-level Panel,Glossy display,LED Backlit,250nits,NTSC: 45%,Screen-to-body ratio 81 %,With stylus support
    Touch screen,15.6-inch,LCD,FHD (1920 x 1080) 16:9,IPS-level Panel,Glossy display,LED Backlit,250nits,NTSC: 45%,Screen-to-body ratio 81 ％,With stylus support
    Touch screen,15.6-inch,LCD,FHD (1920 x 1080) 16:9,IPS-level Panel,Wide view,Glossy display,LED Backlit,250nits,NTSC: 45%,Screen-to-body ratio 81 ％,With stylus support
  • Camera : 720p HD camera
  • Battery : 57WHrs, 3S1P, 3-cell Li-ion
  • AC Adapter : TYPE-C, 45W AC Adapter, Output: 15V DC, 3A, 45W, Input: 100~240V AC 50/60Hz universal.
  • Keyboard : US – English
    
  • I/O Ports 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C support display / power delivery/1x HDMI 1.4/Micro SD card reader.
  • Bluetooth : Bluetooth 5.0
  • Warranty : 1 year
  • Color : Mineral Grey

Conclusion

A Chromebook’s simplicity is unrivaled. There’s little reason not to use a Chrome device if everything you do can be done in a web browser or with web or Android apps.

Although, thanks to support for Android, Linux, Parallels, and VMware, you can do a lot more now than you could when they originally came out in 2011.

These are great workhorses and even good game players.

But get in fast before they go.

If you want to ask any questions, drop it in the reply.

Steve.

Any or all links on this site maybe affiliate links, and if you purchase something through those links I will make a small commission on them.

There will be no extra cost to you and at times due to my affiliation you could actually save money.

You can read our full affiliate disclosure here.

Student Stories.

These stories were written by my students in Vietnam. And while not being perfect it gives an insight into what is popular and how they think. I admire their determination in learning English. To learn English as a foreign language can be very difficult.

The levels of learning range from Starters to Advanced and they are then tested through an English examination such as IELTS. But more on that later.

Lets jump straight in. All these stories are written by 13 year old children who have been in lockdown for 4 months. All names used are nicknames the children choose for themselves.

Jenny

My life when the city just lockdown is normal. I usually spend most of my time playing games and watching TV. I usually sleep at 10:30 and wake up at 7:30. I have breakfast with my family, then I do the housework for my mother.

In my free time, I play games with my friends and brother, or listen to music or read comics.At ten-thirty, I will cook rice and help my mother cook.

Then around 11 o’clock I had lunch with my family. In the afternoon, I continue watching movies with my family or texting with friends.

On Monday, Wednesday and Saturday I have an English class from 7:30 to 8:30. At 9 o’clock I will spend my free time doing the things I like until bedtime.

The end(≧▽≦)

Julie

Because of covid 19 I had to stay at home, during that time, I stayed at home and slept a lot. I usually don’t eat breakfast because I wake up at noon.

I played the game on my phone with my friends. I stayed up late until 3-4am playing games with them. I also learned English online at home.

I read books in my free time and often listen to music during my nap. i played my rubik’s cube. Because I have a lot of time at home.

I have spent a lot of time practicing to play Rubik’s faster. It is very difficult. And I also lie in bed to surf social media. I’m too lazy to exercise at home. Every night, me and my sister, aunt and mother used to pray for the end of covid 19.

JESSICA

“Hi, i’m Jessica ( Tường )

My life when my city just lock down still very normal. I usually wake up at a quarter to eight. I have breakfast at eight o’ clock. Then i watch TV and play with my dogs :D.

At a quarter to eleven i sometimes help my mom to make lunch. I take a nap at twelve o’ clock. In the afternoon, ’cause i’ m lock down so i just turn on and watch TV again ;-;.

I take a bath at hafl past four and have dinner at half past five. At Monday, Wednesday and Saturday i have a English class from half past seven to half past eight in the evening. I play games with my friends and go to bed at half past ten .

Jessica

Sorry if it’s bad 😀

May

In a normal day like before, in the morning at 6:30 I went out of the house to go to school and then I studied from 7 a.m to 5 p.m. I went home to eat lunch and next I went back to school.

But now during the lockdown, I can only stay at home and not go anywhere. In the morning, I get up at about 11 o’clock, have lunch, watch movies.

I will take a nap around 2 o’clock and get up at 4 o’clock to prepare for the extra English class. And finally, I started sleeping again at 3a.m because I like nocturnal type. Stay up late with out parents’ permission is interesting. Every day is the same, it can be said to be quite boring.

Levels of learning English.

Common European Framework of Reference for Languages

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment, abbreviated in English as CEFR or CEF or CEFRL, is a guideline used to describe achievements of learners of foreign languages across Europe and, increasingly, in other countries. The CEFR is also intended to make it easier for educational institutions and employers to understand the ability of these speakers of English.

• Wikipedia

There are seven basic levels of learning English. These can be broken down into Starter, Flyer, Mover, Pre – Intermediate, Intermediate, Upper Intermediate and Advanced.

Starter.

Is for those who have a basic level of English or have just started learning English.

Flyer

For the student who has successfully learnt the basics and is ready to move on to the next level of learning.

Mover

This level introduces the student to both the written and spoken side of English. It focuses on everyday usage of English and helps the students build confidence in their abilities.

Pre Intermediate

Pre Intermediate offers speaking practice to help students learn and practise useful phrases. This will help them to speak English clearly and effectively.

Intermediate

Intermediate students will be able to understand  the main points of  familiar matters that are regularly encountered at work, school, or in a leisure activity. They will be able to deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where the language is predominantly spoken.

Upper Intermediate

The upper Intermediate section offers reading practice to help the student understand texts that have a wide vocabulary range. They will need to consider the writer’s opinion. Texts include articles, reports, messages, short stories and reviews.

Advanced

Polish your English skills and explore different styles of writing and advanced vocabulary. This is what Advanced learning is all about. Students might look at various subjects such as Business, Analytics, Computer Science and much much more.

Admiration.

Learning any language can be difficult. And because of the structure of the Vietnamese language, learning English is difficult.

The Vietnamese language is a tonal language.There are six tones used in the Vietnamese language. These are mid level, low falling, low rising, high broken, high rising and low broken.

To learn the stress in English can be a challenge for any student. But there are also many other challenges as well.

It can be difficult to understand the differences between different varieties of English.

Think about the differences between formal and informal language, as well as the differences between spoken and written language.

This causes students to write words phonetically, that is, how they would pronounce them rather than how they are actually spelled.

And also using informal language, possibly even slang, in formal contexts. Easy for someone who has been brought up on English but considerably more difficult for those who use English as a second language.

Good luck with one of the most difficult languages to learn.

How do we learn languages.

As babies we listen to our parents and this is the way we learn. The first skill is listening. The second speaking, the third reading and the most difficult is writing. So it is with great admiration for my students that they can communicate, while not perfectly, at least understandably.

I challenge you to learn a language and set your mind free. Studies have shown that learning a second language increases your IQ and opens doors that would not normally be available to a speaker of only one language.

Michigan State University has an excellent article on the benefits of learning a second language. You can find the link here.

==> M.S.U <==

I hope you found this article interesting and please feel free to leave any comments.

Please check out my recommendations for tools to learn other languages on my website.  

Any or all links on this site maybe affiliate links, and if you purchase something through those links I will make a small commission on them.

There will be no extra cost to you and at times due to my affiliation you could actually save money.

You can read our full affiliate disclosure here.

Thanks.

Stephen.

Renting in Ho Chi Minh City.

Ho Chi Minh is a city of delectable smells, auditory and visual experiences you thought could not exist.

A true sensory overload in every way.

Ho Chi Minh City offers everything from cheap rentals to top of the world class street food. Its colonial history mixed with its more recent tourist boom means Ho Chi Minh city is a very popular destination for expats and tourists alike.

Apartments for rent Ho Chi Minh City can vary in size, price and location. From suburbs, or districts as they are called in Vietnam, like Distict 1 to Go Vap, Hoc Mon and many more.

In such a huge city it is possible to live very cheaply amongst the locals, or very luxuriously in an expat community.

As an example, I am living in Go Vap in a 3 story house for which I pay less than $200 per week.But a friend of mine is paying the same amount to live in a 3 room apartment closer to the city center.

District 1, the main center  has some of the most expensive apartments for rent in Ho Chi Minh city because of its great location and closeness to the cities historical sights.

A locally built Saigon apartment is likely to be smaller than those in  North America or Australia and Europe. This is a relatively small country with a big poulation.so you pay for space.

Cheap apartments abound but tend to be very small and the more expensive apartments are larger with more space.

Expats come here for a variety of jobs, the main being to teach English.

Teaching Jobs.

High paying teaching jobs here allow the expats the income to afford great serviced apartments in affluent areas in the city like district 1 and 2 and district 7. But there are now a lot of teachers and expats choose to live in districts that are more Vietnamese in feel.

If you choose an apartment you will quite often find it comes equiped with  a pool, gym and sauna.

 Apartments in Ho Chi Minh City

Serviced and non Serviced apartments.

Serviced and some non serviced apartments in Ho Chi Minh City are more geared towards the expat community. The four main areas of Ho Chi Minh city for expats are District 1, 2 and 3, and 7 and District 9..

Modern and well built apartments have been constructed with expats in mind. And the properties are roomy and of good quality and design.

A  serviced apartment in Ho Chi Minh city, depending on price, will usually include facilities like underground parking and a 24 hour reception desk.

For people that value their privacy and security, and in a city with crazy traffic like Ho Chi Minh city  these things can be very important.

Examples.

District 1.

Address: Nguyen Van Thu, Dakao ward, District 1.This is central snad it will only take a few minutes to get to more ex-pat areas like District 3,7. Abd about 15 minutes to District 2 .

40sqm – Type: big studio, spacious, breezy balcony. – Fully equipped kitchen, windows around with natural lights. – This is very clean, comfortable, and perfectly sized for one to two people

Rental: 10.3 million dong ( $450) per month includes some free services like TV cable, high speed internet, parking. and cleaning and changing bedsheet, laundry. plus Security 24/7.

District 2.

Located in Thao Dien ward in district 2 where a lot of foreigners are living and working .It is close to a lot of markets, supermarkets, convenience stores, restaurants & coffee shops as well as medical centers and  international schools,…

75sqm, two bedrooms and two bathrooms – Large balcony with beautiful river views – Fully furnished, comfortable living & modern fittings.

Amenitites: swimming pool, gym, BBQ garden, playground for kids and small park.

Rental: 14.8 million dong per month ($650 US)

District 3

On  Vo Thi Sau street in district 3 which is close to the heart of  Ho Chi Minh City.. You would be close to banks, restaurants and coffee shops, supermarkets, markets..

35sqm, Type: big studio, spacious, breezy balcony. – Fully equipped kitchen and windows providing natural light

Rental: 10.3 million dong ( $450 US ) per month. It includes some free services like TV cable, high speed internet, parking.  Cleaning, changing bedsheet, laundry.and Security 24/7..

District 7

Design: 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms

Area: 91 sqm

The apartment is suitable for a  family. It s only one unit with 2 bedrooms at River view , fresh and breezy.

Rental fee: 13 million dong per month ($575.00 US)

Furniture: fully optioned

Public amenities of Riviera point: schools, universities, hospitals, and shopping centers are all close.

Security protection 24/24 with cameras and security.

Riviera point is one of the newer complexes in District 7. it is located on Nguyen Van Tuong street next to Long Ca Cam river. Riviera Point has modern facilities like a big swimming pool, fully equipped gym, a tennis court, children’s play ground and a sky garden…

Close by you will find super markets, restaurants, coffee shops and hair-salons

District 7.

Saigon South Residence is located in a peaceful and relatively green area, Saigon south Residence Nha Be is one of the more desirable residential complexes for many people.

From this Saigon south residence it takes 5 minutes drive to SC Vivo City, 10 minutes to RMIT, and 20 minutes to the center of District 1.

It has 3 bedrooms, and 2 bathrooms. Unfurnished.

Price is 20.000.000 million dong per month ( $880.00 US)

Maps.

If you wish to find out where these Districts are have a look at my ==> maps <== page.

Conclusion.

Moving to any Country has its own problems. I just hope this helps some people by providing information about the costs of living in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

If you have found this helpful please check out my other blogs about Vietnam. They cover everything from what you need to teach, to the etiquette of the locals.

I am always happy to answer questions so please leave a comment.

Any or all links on this site maybe affiliate links, and if you purchase something through those links I will make a small commission on them.

There will be no extra cost to you and at times due to my affiliation you could actually save money.

You can read our full affiliate disclosure here.

Vietnams commitment to education

Vietnams commitment to education can be seen by it’s huge investment in public and private schools.

The Government believes that a healthy mix of education and hard work is the key to success , both for the people and the country.

The bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City are normally packed with children who are seemingly always on their way to school or extra classes.

School and teacher quality

Lately Vietnam has increased enrollment of students while trying to work out and enforce some  minimum quality standards for its’ school facilities countrywide. Is it being successful, only time will tell.

Teacher quality is also a major concern, and Vietnam has laid a good foundation by trying to make its teachers more professional and accountable. Vietnamese culture holds teachers in high regards.

But It is still unfortunate that they are not paid as professionals should be.In a lot of cases the teachers have to provide private tuition outside of normal teaching hours to survive.

Is it getting better?

In a nutshell, yes it is. However there is still a long way to go. When you are teaching English in a classroom and see your classroom teacher, who is meant to be helping, combing a students hair you have to wonder about quality.

Vietnam looks for ideas from abroad. The ministry of education studies curriculum reform in high-performing countries like Korea and Singapore.

Vietnam have also introduced several initiatives from other countries that have developed new ideas. New teaching methods like the Escuela Nueva program from Colombia. And they have also introduced new reforms in K – !2 classes as well as some higher education reforms.

There are times when you bang your head against the wall in pure frustration but Vietnam education is heading in the right direction.

There is a lot to improve.

There are quality improvements that need to be fixed and a lot of gaps that need to be closed

There are still over thirty percent of children not moving up to secondary school and there are a lot of parents who still can not afford to send their children to school.

There is a huge challenge for the Government of Vietnam  to reduce absenteeism and early leavers .Low income families look to their children as providers and take them out of schools to work on farms if needed.

Another challenge for the Government is to stop bribe taking. The MOET was voted as the worst performing and most corrupt Government body in Vietnam.

As well as this a lot of the private schools ( Those that teach English) will provide certificates of attainment for cash.

On top of that a lot of the textbooks are very old fashioned and boring for the students. Apart from being incorrect in some cases. Quite often I find myself correcting the official Government supplied scholastic books.

So there are a lot of challenges, however in the 15 years I have been here it is improving. The Government of Vietnam is trying to improve the education market, but they have a lot of other problems as well.

The basic skills that have been provided in the past will not be enough for Vietnam to move ahead. There is a definite need for the introduction of a more comprehensive education system and a better reward system for its teachers.

Education in Vietnam

Pre-school or kindergarten (which is optional) is offered from the age of about 18 months, in Vietnam, with compulsory schooling from the age of six. Only five years of primary education are deemed mandatory.

After primary school, children move on to lower secondary education  and upper secondary education

Pre-school Optional for children aged between 18 months and five years olds .Fees may be payable, and kindergartens are more commonly found in major cities. Although child care centers are in most regional areas.

Primary School Compulsory from age six to 11 for all children Education at primary level is free for the morning however if the student learns in the afternoon the parents have to pay some money.

Secondary School Secondary education is divided into lower and upper programs. Not compulsory but parents want their children to succeed and will try their hardest to educate their children. Again there is a cost involved.

The Road Ahead. 

The next step for Vietnam is to provide better quality schooling that creates higher-order cognitive and behavioral skills (such as creative and critical thinking) for more young people.

Will it be achieved with the existing Government body, MOET., the Ministry of Education and Training. That remains to be seen. However they are working on designing more creative competence based programs for both students and teachers.

If Vietnam can clean up the internal structure of its official government department of education, that too would help.

While governmental reform is an important step, the other changes should be in how to deliver content in the classroom.

Better learning and teaching methods.

There are still a lot of Vietnamese and foreign teachers who are not providing good content in the classroom. This needs to change.

Many teachers are still teaching passively and not engaging the students. This really comes down to teaching style. 

Active student based approaches that are fun and entertaining are not common in the classroom. However there is change happening. Some teachers are realizing that to get the students attention and turn it into a learning activity, they themselves need to change.

If you look at the picture above you will see activities that make learning fun and easy to remember for the student.

When I have taught at different schools in Vietnam I have seen practises that have been out of date for a long time. Rote learning and teacher centred approaches are still the norm and the kids are bored. The teachers stand in front of the class, write on the board and say copy.

Is change going to happen? Yes and to help bridge these gaps policy makers have assured that there will be a comprehensive update of both books and teaching styles. Let us hope that it is sooner rather than later.

Change will only happen if it is implemeted by the Government. Teachers need better pay..Yes. Teachers need better resources..Yes. Teachers need to improve their skillsets..Yes.

Is it getting better.. yes.

Can I help?

Yes, and one of the best ways is to become a teacher of English in Vietnam. We provide so much, in and out of the classroom, that with your help we can change lives.

Teaching EFL.

English as a Foreign Language, or EFL, refers to learning and using English as an additional language in a non-English speaking country. It can be compared with ESL ( English as a Second Language ) and ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages ), which mainly refers tolearning English as a new resident in an English-speaking country.

For more information about teaching in Vietnam and EFl please look at my website

. ==> Great teachers <==

In Conclusion.

Vietnam is a vibrant and exciting country and a joy to teach in. There are cultural differences and challenges that will face you if you come here. Whether it is for holiday or to work. you will never have a dull moment. I challenge you to come. It is an experience that will stay with you for your whole life.

I welcome all comments and reply to everyone. So if you have any comments please leave a comment.

If you want to find out more about me, look here. Steve.

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