A New Part of Town

I've moved to a hotel in the Tan Binh district of Saigon. I was not expecting such a big difference. I rarely see any foreigners here. There aren't very many signs in English and people rarely understand me. When I walk around, many people stare. I have friends that live in this district, so I'm not completely isolated! Of course, there is amazing food to be found around here.

I need to find an apartment soon. My ideal location would be near some shops. It might be nice to live near some westerners too. I really like the local Vietnamese people, but sometimes I feel a desire to socialize with someone from the same culture as me. At the same time, I love to experience the real Vietnam with a local guide. I strive to have a good mix of friends!

I tried driving a motorcycle for the first time a few days ago. It is sort of like riding a bicycle. A REALLY heavy bicycle. I will keep trying because it simply seems to be the best way to get around the city.

Speaking of food...Vietnamese people are adventurous compared to your average American! I've tried fish heads, fertilized duck eggs, and snails. It wasn't too bad, actually (except for the very bitter fish head). Nothing seems to go to waste either.

Mmmm...snails and some sort of shellfish.

This little adorable thing cleaned up after me when I spilled some chicken. Many restaurants I've eaten at have animals running around inside. It's pretty charming.

Back to Reality!

I finished the CELTA course, interviewed for a job, and got it. I started teaching some kids English last weekend. It was incredibly stressful, actually! They needed someone right away, so I didn't have a chance for orientation or training in teaching kids. I made it through though, and it's supposed to get easier. That's what my coworkers are telling me, at least! (very friendly people!)

Outside of work, I'm looking for a new place to stay. I've set up a reservation in a hotel near my school where I'm working. Eventually I'll need to rent an apartment.

Also, I really want to learn to ride a motorcycle! It would help me get around so much more easily!

The crazy streets of Saigon. Riding a motorcycle could be like riding a bike back home, but with some more distractions.

I'll be glad to be moving away from a tourist area. Every time I leave my hotel, I see tons of exploitation of people. The streets are filled with prostitutes, children being pressured by their parents into selling trinkets to tourists, and thieves. Some of my friends have had their phones and purses stolen. Fortunately, I haven't lost anything yet (and hopefully it stays that way!)

In general, I'm finding that the locals here are very friendly. They really invite me to many things and help me out. Oh how I wish I could speak and understand Vietnamese though. The language barrier can be crazy at times! Finally, here are some random pictures (I need to take more though!):

I'm preeeettty sure that wasn't one of the Tintin books that Hergé wrote. Unfortunately, this was just a poster. I was kind of hoping there would be some sort of made up story inside in broken French or something.

The Temple of King Hung Vuong, an early leader (dynasty?) of Vietnam. Near the gate are also...

...Vietnamese dragons!