Brett Nelson
1st teaching experience
I first arrived into Hanoi, Vietnam in January 2003. I was on my way to teach in Hai Phong. I came alone into Hanoi, found the old train station, and took the 1 ½ hour train ride to Hai Phong. The train ride was interesting - it was a 1950's train with hard wooden seats. I'm sure I paid 3x too much for a pack of Wrigley's gum. It was a bit cool at the time (January), and was absolutely fascinated by the smells and feel of the country.

The teaching experience there was fantastic. I specifically remember 2 classes - and pre-intermediate and advanced class. The students were so interested in my life - hobbies, my age (almost first or second question asked), if I was married (nope, single….giggles from the girls), and if I liked Vietnam and Vietnamese girls.

The students in Vietnam are taught to respect the teachers (teachers are respected almost like parents here), so that certainly made my 1st teaching experience (and all the subsequent one's) very enjoyable.

What do you like most about teaching in country you are teaching?
I guess I would have to say the best thing about teaching in HCMC…well, for students - their desire to learn. There is a hunger here to become better at learning English and do well in their life. For a teacher, that exactly what you want….pupils hungry to learn. Location - you're only 3 ½ hours away from some beautiful beaches, or a $75 plane ride away from what I consider the most beautiful beach in Asia - Nha trang. Ho Chi Minh City has also has some great selections of restaurants (that wasn't the case 4 years ago).

What's your schedule now?
When I was teaching full-time in 2006,I worked 9-11am Monday thru Friday and Mon Wed Friday 6-10pm with weekends off. I now own and operate ESL Job Spot :)

Any advice for those coming to the country you are teaching?
The 1st month, take a motor bike taxi to get around. Once you're familiar with the roads, if you're up for it, rent a bike and get around yourself. In HCMC, be sure to head to Ngon Restaurant, and spend some time in Mui Ne every couple months (some great wind surfing). Don't forget: in Vietnam, the person that invites pays! I'd also recommend having someone show you around. If you're heading this way, contact me (use the contact button on this site) and we'd be happy to show you around Ho Chi Minh City.