Odds, Ends and Random Thoughts.

* Purchase Property: You can buy property in Vietnam but there are limits and time constants on how many and how long you get to keep the property.
check out: www.justlanded.com
You will never have 100 percent ownership when buying a house in Vietnam. 

* Wish they had a simple Expat Visa for Non- Employed (retired) Expats ...
Good for 1 year. (or longer)
After all the Expats will spend much money in every community.
Thus supporting local business, yet not taking jobs away from the people.

* Driving: It is not recommended that you drive. But if you do get a Vietnamese Driving License.
You can convert an International Permit (not a license) to a Vietnamese Driving License.
Lots of documents are required.
check out:  http://www.vietnamonline.com/transport/how-to-obtain-a-vietnamese-driving-license.html 
There can be serious trouble if you do not follow the rules. Not to mention causing an accident or death. Both of which are common. Make friends with a few Honest Taxi and Xe Om operators.

* Working In Vietnam ... Start planing way ahead of time.
There are many Job Boards and various classifieds on the internet.

* Learning Vietnamese: There are many books, tapes, CD's. DVD's  and various programs teaching you to speak the native language. Many of these fall short in one way or another. Soak up what you can. Take your time and you will do just great. Having a few native speaking friends is more than helpful when it comes to truly learning and understanding.
Check out: YouTube.com. I have watched many Youtube videos about language, cultural events, foods and street scenes. I like Rusty Compass, www.rustycompass.com  and  https://www.facebook.com/rustycompass.
Yet for an enhanced (free) understanding of the local language I enjoy Annie on Youtube. 
Simply search for: Learn Vietnamese with Annie. 
She is a talented woman with a great understanding for teaching language.
Annie also does private classes.
You will find her on Youtube and facebook. http://learnvietnamesewithannie.com/

* Some of my other travel tips.
Do not use Drugs and avoid getting drunk.
Travel light and wear layers.
Check out the area and eat in several little places. Try new foods.
Stay away from voicing your Religious and Political Opinions.
Watch your phone and avoid Roaming Charges.
Please use the Room Safe.
Make copies of all your documents. Email to self.
Use your credit debt card to establish a paper trail,