The first few days

You will be pleased to know that life here on the ground in Ho Chi Minh is going well.

I am beginning to get know my way around a little but it is still bizarre to think that this is home!

Some of things I have noticed or particularly enjoyed in these first few days are:

The tree-lind streets

Walking in the park with the locals at 5.45am (but not this morning as it is bucketing with rain) and seeing all the activity - the aerobics, tai chi, badminton and ballroom dancing.

Pho

Discovering that I can buy almonds!

 

 The electrical wiring

Beef salad

A close call with a scooter whilst walking on the footpath and realising that a 'green man' walk signal does not give you any right of way!

Motorbike 'taxi' drivers asleep on their bikes

Being collected by a driver to go and view apartments

When looking at a shirt being told I would need extra large!

The horns

Tropical fruit and coconut water

Wifi and lying in bed listening to AM with Sally Sara - plus skype and viber

Cafes just like home - well nearly!!

Realising that very few people smoke and that I haven't noticed the smells or spitting that were so familiar in Hong Kong

Men taking their birds for a walk and collecting their bugs for the day.

A man taking his dog for a walk from the comfort of his scooter

Discovering a gourmet food shop

Meeting new colleagues - Kiwi's, Aussies, Americans and Canadians

The contrast of old and new

An amazing electrical storm

The ever friendly and helpful local people

Learning about various places to eat and visit through social media

It has been a very positive beginning and I am very much looking forward to deciding on an apartment, moving in and getting to know this city so much better.