Things to do for wives in HCM

Posted by jenn (2107 days ago)

My husband's company is moving us to Hanoi in January and even after all the song and dance from the HR department about what's it like to live in Vietnam I am still rather unconvinced that this is a good place for an expat wife.

Two questions: is it possible to find work as an expat wife in Vietnam? I am a housewife and mother but have good experience in the PR/Advertising field. I am not too hung up on the pay but I wouldn't be very excited about receiving $200 a month.

If I decided not work (or if the opportunity was not there), what is there to do in Ho Chi Minh for a wife whose husband is a workaholic? Is there a good network of women? If so what do the women do? Or is everybody going 'mad' waiting for hubby to be relocated back to civilization?

I would very much appreciate and value some advice from people who are going through this. Thanks.

Posted by cara (1321 days ago)

i'm sorry, i don't live in hanoi...i did travel vietnam a few years ago and loved it! I'm sure it will be whatever you make it...as to wages... doesn't the wage reflect the cost of living??? i know that there is no way i'd ever make the wage that i am now(in HK) if i was in canada...i make as much as a doctor in canada, but i only teach english in HK...if you only make $200 per month in vietnam, you'll be able to but a lot more there than you would at home(i'm not saying that it's a good wage, i don't know what is...). just keep in mind that it's all relative!

Posted by cara (1321 days ago)

also, it's a little confusing...your topic said in HMC(Ho Chi Minh) but your description says Hanoi....

Posted by Danny (1321 days ago)

Hi, Jenn, Oct. 2 2003

I may have to move back to HCM for work from Hong Kong recently.
As I have seen some Advertisment job whih is needed at the website :http://jobsearch.monster.com.hk/.
Please get a look.
Good Luck !

Danny

Posted by jenn (1321 days ago)

Sorry, I meant HCM.

Posted by jenn (1321 days ago)

p.s. if you knew what you know now, would you have made the move?

Posted by Janet (1321 days ago)

Living in Vietnam is very hard if you are used to the states, It is very hot and hummid, so going out side, you have to get used to it. There are limited things to do in Saigon, And working for an ad firm only will pay about $300 usd dollars. There are a high demand on teacher with college degrees, but only pay about 600 at most. But that will give you a chance to meet with the locals. Please dont expect to much, The most important is time for yourself..