sunketing's Guestbook

Ha!
I visited a few years ago, actually, and kept my ATM receipt showing I was a millionaire. I actually didn't have problems in Vietnam because the numbers were so far removed from what I was used to. I knew I was paying tourist prices, but I never really felt like I was overpaying and I definitely never had guilt by numbers!

Thanks!
I completely agree.

Utilities and other varying costs
Utilities are a pretty small fraction of the overall costs, unless you're running your AC non-stop. My apartment adds it to my rent, but some make you set up your own accts. In my mind, it's part of your monthly rent, just like internet or renting a fridge. Mobile phone plans vary widely. Just like prices for phones. Which is why I didn't mention it. No expat I know watches TV here because it's all in Thai; most stream/DL TV shows on the internet for free. You can do visa runs to neighboring countries (there are tours for this) and get your 60 day visa. You need to have at least 30 days left for processing time of the Non-B visa, so that's why you need to start with 60. If you start with 30, you'll run out and have to do another visa run. Or worse, maybe. This is, of course, assuming you want to work in the country legally. My main concern was that none of the forums posted anything about how much general costs are for immigration and that adds up to be much more than many will anticipate. Ditto for apt costs. Those are easily the two biggest costs a person faces up front and can't avoid.

the bird
Was one of the the gifts I received.