Comments on: Cost of living in Saigon Vietnam

By: Vietnam720

Vietnam720 — Mon, 11 Oct 2010 01:54:25 +0000

Hey Fatima, whether it’s enough or not it will depend on your lifestyle.

But there’s something alarming here: assuming you are doing 8 hours/day and 5 days a week, you are only being paid US$2+/hr. The average rate here range from $10 – $25/hr. You certainly need to revisit the terms offered to you.

By: Fatima

Fatima — Sun, 10 Oct 2010 13:25:04 +0000

hi i have a job offer in vietnam free accomodation for 350 usd per month, is it enough?and its 8 hours a day teaching english, i hope i can get your advice, my free accomodation includes my stay in a room shared with other 2 teachers and electricity,food is not included. hope u can enlighten me.

By: Vietnam720

Vietnam720 — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:12:16 +0000

Hi Ezra,

Wow, a war veteran.

The wet weather usually starts around May in Vietnam. But if u are taking the unbeaten track, then I guess anytime will be fine.

As for teaching, u’ll find it easier to get hired at the bigger cities. Hope this help.

By: Ezra

Ezra — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 23:06:48 +0000

Thanks for your responses. I was in Xuan Loc during the war. My tentative plan is to essentially “backpack”; that is, not looking for organized entertainment, clubs etc. Just want to wander in the markets, maybe mix a little with the farm community and maybe even take some guided hikes through the jungle. I love the food and wish to buy the dishes in the most humble of settings and at low prices. The fruits are second to none! Also, am thinking of coming during the rainy season as not as convenient for many tourist and not as busy. The every day cultural experience is interesting to me. Also, might seek temporary employment in an area where my English language skills can be an asset. I am able to speak only a little Vietnamese – just enough to make them smile and answer in very simple sentences. Can you comment on any of this? Thanks again.

By: Vietnam720

Vietnam720 — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 10:20:36 +0000

Hi Ezra,

I’m not familiar with Xuan Loc so can’t comment about the safety there. But I do know Xuan Loc is in Dong Nai which is a good 50km away from Saigon. If it’s on a tour, then yeah, go on the road less travelled. But if it’s for work, then try coming to Ho Chi Minh City, at least for a start and as a warm up to Vietnam. Things ouside the major cities will for sure be cheaper but this also means lesser entertainment spots, lesser friends and expat around you…

By: Ezra

Ezra — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:02:36 +0000

What about safe travel to Xuan Loc, and lodging there. Are the guest houses cheaper than Saigon?

By: Vietnam720

Vietnam720 — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 02:41:57 +0000

Jason,

Thank you for your compliment.

Sorry, didn’t read the top comments to realise it’s the same person posting and that you had mentioned already you are staying here for at least 3 months.

Have fun in Vietnam. I’m sure you gonna love Vietnam

By: Jason Bowens

Jason Bowens — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 02:26:36 +0000

Ben,

Great Tip.

I’ll be staying for 3 months minimum.

Thank you for offering resources. Your website is fantastic!

By: Vietnam720

Vietnam720 — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 05:46:28 +0000

Hi Jason,

Many of the mini hotels in the backpacker’s area double up as private apartment or that they do provide long term stay. So 1 tip is to stay a few days with a few of them, then chose 1 good place.

As for which street, it makes no difference as they are all close by. Important is to have a comfortable room with proper facilities and friendly landlord.

How long are u gonna be staying in Saigon?

By: Jason Bowens

Jason Bowens — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 18:45:05 +0000

Ben,

What do you recommend I should do for accommodation?

Reserve a hotel for several days, then look around Pham Ngu Lao for rooms?

Would you recommend staying on De Tham Street, Bui Vien Street, or Pham Ngu Lao Street?