Wow! Where to start???? I have been in Saigon for nearly a week now and there is so much to tell! So it's not boring, I am going to hit the main points.
Food --- the Vietnamese do know how to cook! Even western dishes are done well. I have had omelets, pineapple pancakes, garlic bread, fried rice, chicken wings with crispy broken rice patties, and pizza. Tomorrow I am attending a meet up group to do a street food walkabout.
Traffic --- yes, it is as bad as you think, read about or see on you tube. The guidebooks are right when they say to start crossing at the most opportune time, keep a steady pace and don't stop or you will get hit. I have seen it happen but luckily no one was injured. I, myself, take a deep breath and follow the guidebooks....so far so good. There is a lot of honking but not the road rage kind. It is simply a way to warn other drivers where you are.
Transportation --- taxis are aplenty here. I took my first ride on the back of a motorbike the other day and it was quite scary at first. I quickly relaxed knowing when it's my time, it's my time. LOL. However, regular taxis are my definite preference.
Accommodations ---- my hotel is simple but clean and the staff are friendly and helpful. I do have a VERY firm mattress which has taken some getting used to. Also, I have a "toilet shower" which is basically a shower head in the middle of the bathroom with no enclosure. I don't mind it actually.
Apartment --- I will be moving into my studio apartment on December 3 and I am very much looking forward to getting settled and unpacked. My building is a year old, has a lift, 24 hour security, weekly cleaning service, laundry on site, free wifi and cable. All for a mere 8 million dong/month!!!! Yes, it sounds incredibly expensive but with the exchange rate equates to around $350/month. Still getting used to how crazy that sounds. Pictures to follow when I get settled.
Job --- I had my first interview today with one of my top schools, Vietnam USA Society English Centers and it went well. I will be doing a demonstration lesson on Thursday morning. I will know by the end of the week if they are going to make me an offer.
That's probably enough for now. I will write about my experiences on a city tour next time.
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