#iAMHCMC Gazette - Quarter 1 - 2019

BY LOCALS, FOR LOCALS

01-02-03/2019

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In Brief Travel

The Year in Review A look at the people, places and events that defined 2018 and what’s coming up next.

“The four-day calendar New Year holiday and the nine-day lunar New Year (Tet) festival

are expected to offer golden chances for the Vietnamese tourism sector, with the number of holiday-makers booking tours via travel agents forecast to rise by 30 percent year-on-year”.

Vietnam National Administration of Tourism

F&B “When I was 18 or 19, Vietnamese cuisine was unknown. Look around the world today, it’s number one”.

Celebrity Chef David Thai

Leisure “Almost every weekend, we meet people from Hong Kong, Singapore or Bangkok just to name a few cities, who come here to enjoy our vibrant nightlife”.

Dan Bimong, founder of The Observatory

Education “In the next 20 years, when English is good, IT is strong, education will change.”

Education Minister Phung Xuan Nha

Furthermore

MARCH - State funeral of Vietnam’s Prime Minister, Phan Văn Khải JUNE - Vietnam’s under-23 youth football league makes it to the final of the world championships in China JULY - Landmark 81, the tallest building in Vietnam, opens in Saigon SEPTEMBER - Tran Tieu My from Quang Nam Province is crowned Miss Vietnam OCTOBER - Nguyen Phu Trong, Former General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, is nominated President of Vietnam DECEMBER - Korea offers a new visa program for 5-year visas to South Korea for residents of HCMC, Hanoi and Danang Vietnam wins the AFF Suzuki Cup H’Hen Nie makes it to the top 5 in the Miss Universe Pageant

“You have perfect demographics here in Vietnam

and this young generation is the one that’s going to take Vietnam, a low income country, to a first world country and I feel that that’s inevitable.”

Henry Nguyen (Vietnamese-American businessman) Vietnam will host the ASEAN Tourism Cooperation in Ha Long City in January The Vietnam Sustainability Forum will take place in Hanoi in January HCMC will launch seven new waterway tour routes to meet the growing tourist demand Vietnam will host the United Nations Day of Vesak as well as an international Buddhism conference in May Vietnam expects ro reach a 6.6%-6.8% GDP growth in 2019 3

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EDITOR’S NOTE

By Locals, For Locals

TRAVEL FEATURES 6. Bamboo Airways Set to Join Vietnam’s Race to the Clouds

7. Sparkling Celebrations at Sheraton Grand Danang Resort

8. The Ancient Town of Hoi An Morphing to Keep up with Changing Times

10. The Rise of Korean Travellers in Vietnam 12. The Endless Summer In Ninh Thuan Province

14. Recent Developments in International Tourism Turn Quy Nhon into a Hotspot

F&B FEATURES 16. Organic Seafood Production in Vietnam; an Interview with Antoine Bui

18. Four Female Chefs You Should Know About in Vietnam

20. Sustainable Farms Fight Poverty in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta

LEISURE FEATURES 22. Hanoi to Host Formula One’s First Race in April of 2020

24. Understanding the Ecosystem that is Saigon’s Nightlife

26. The Rise (or Fall) of Mall-Based Retail in

I was scanning through my news feed, which was filled with topics ranging from Vietnam winning the 2018 AFF Suzuki Cup, pictures of beached whales with bellies full of plastic and racist slurs against Miss Vietnam at the Miss Universe pageant, among other things, when I fell upon a news blip—Oxford Dictionaries had chosen their 2018 Word of the Year. This may seem like a small thing, probably only of interest to someone who works with words for a living, however, as Oxford Dictionaries puts it, the word is chosen to “reflect the ethos, mood or preoccupations of that particular year and to have lasting potential as a word of cultural significance”.

And Oxford’s word for 2018 is… toxic.

Toxic? I was surprised. It seemed so negative. Yet, as I read on it painted a picture of 2018 across the globe. From toxic relationships to toxic air, toxic masculinity to toxic waste, this word was thrown around a lot in the Year of the Dog. Regardless of whether our New Year began on the 1st or we’re still in preparation for the upcoming Tet celebrations, January is traditionally a month where we all try to “make ourselves better”. We focus on our wishes, our goals, our hunger for newness. But, if we really want change, perhaps it’s time to shift our perspective instead and to try to erase the toxic in our lives.

In this edition of #iAMHCMC, we invite you to challenge yourself to “rethink” how you’re impacting the world around you. If you want to travel somewhere you’ve never been before, perhaps head to a “Y-farm” (pg. 20), which creates economic relief for young people through organic farming. If you want to try a new restaurant, how about going to one with a female Head Chef (pg. 18)? If you want a makeover try going on a “diet” from single-use plastics instead (pg. 28). If you’re looking for an alternative way to educate your children, try using “restorative justice” rather than traditional punishment (pg. 32). Toxic doesn’t only refer to broad ideas, it can also be about toxic behaviours that reduce our quality of life. For example, whether you’re CEO of a company or an independent entrepreneur, you might benefit from some time management strategies to help you focus on what really matters (pg. 44).

To make 2019 different than the years that came before, it may be time to shake up the status-quo and ask for change—within ourselves, within our environment, within our mindsets—so that the Year of the Pig can be an inspiring, non-toxic end to an epic 12-year cycle.

Here’s to a New Year, a new you, a new world… a new word.

Sincerely yours,

Saigon

28. Vietnam has a Plastic Waste Problem;

Molly Headley-Benkaci Content Manager

Here’s What’s Being Done

EDUCATION FEATURES 32. Practising Restorative Justice at ISSP 34. ISHCMC Secondary School: Providing More Choices for Learners

36. The Ultimate Guide to International Schools in Saigon

38. ABC International School’s New Secondary Campus in HCMC

FURTHERMORE 40. Guide to Giving Birth in Saigon 42. The Science of Networks; How Connectivism is Changing Our Interactions

44. Increase Your Effectiveness by Managing Your Time

46. Behind the Flood; How Greener City Planning Can Unblock HCMC Waterways

48. Investors to Shape the Future of Asia Pacific

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Editor Rob van Diesum Content Manager Molly Headley-Benkaci Writers J.K. Hobson Sivaraj Pragasm Stuart Miller Mervin Lee Lucie Sherwood Brennan Lagman Aileen Murphy Mark Gwyther

Damien Bazin Karen Wise Ly Quoc Dang Laura Nalin Angee D Victor Burrill Traffic Coordinator Huong Pham Front Cover Øyvind Sveen Design Manager Hera Nguyen

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Set to Join Vietnam’s Race to the Clouds A new airline based out of Binh Dinh province in Vietnam will now offer domestic flights, international routes and competitive pricing… is it too good to be true?

Bamboo Airways, Vietnam’s newest entity in the country’s relatively saturated aviation industry, soared to the skies with its inaugural flight on 12 December 2018, after failing to do so on its initial planned date of 10 October 2018. The airline received the final green light from Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and the Ministry of Transportation on 8 November 2018 after an intense meeting that saw the participation of several other core government organs.

An Airline with Headquarters in Central Vietnam A subsidiary company of FLC Group JSC based in Hanoi, Bamboo Airways has its headquarters in Phu Cat Airport (IATA: UIH) of Binh Dinh 6 | iamhcmc.com/gazette

by Mervin Lee

TRAVEL FEATURE

Province. Phu Cat Airport serves most of the province and is approximately 35 km from Quy Nhon city, the largest city in Binh Dinh, known for its sandy shorelines and impressive geographical landforms. 24 domestic routes and 16 international routes such as to Russia, Germany, Korea, China and Japan are planned from now till 2023.

Bamboo Airways is exploring uncharted territory with its Hybrid Model. This purportedly combines the trustability of traditional full-service carriers and competitive pricing more commonly associated with low-cost carriers.

More easily said than done, though, based on observations by international experts.

Numbers Not Looking Bright for Vietnam, Aviation Experts Say An article published by Bloomberg on 1 August 2018 surveyed the domestic aviation market trends in Vietnam. Brendan Sobie, a Singaporebased analyst at CAPA Centre for Aviation, said to Bloomberg that “anybody coming into the market now is late”. According to Sobie, Vietnam’s annual domestic seat capacity growth has also been reduced to less than 10% in the last year or so. On a brighter note, he commented that international seat demand is increasing, with an estimated 20% growth annually in the last three years. This might explain Bamboo Airways’ ambitious international route plans.

Trinh Van Quyet, chairman of Bamboo Airways, firmly believes that the growing middle class and its increasing desire to travel both

domestically and internationally will bolster these numbers. Beyond its current inventory of 20 leased aircrafts, parent company FLC Group JSC has commited to buying 24 Airbus SE A321 planes worth US$3.2 billion. In June 2018, FLC also finalised a contract with Boeing Co. for 20 twin-aisle 787-9 Dreamliners. Full delivery of these planes is expected in 2022.

Real Estate Plans for Quy Nhon Probably Not Just a Coincidence Perhaps not too coincidentally, FLC Group JSC is also a real estate developer. It recently announced a 600+ hectare real estate development with an estimated 70,000 resident capacity in Quy Nhon City. Located 19 km away from the city centre, Lux City Quy Nhon has been described by the developer as an ecodistrict that combines the natural characteristics of coastal Vietnam with the comfort of modern living. The self-sustainable eco-district is set to feature parks, clinics, mixed-used highrises, convention centres and several recreational facilities that exploit the province’s natural beauty. Much of the developer’s marketing material focuses on Quy Nhon’s connectivity to other major cities in both Northern and Southern Vietnam and Lux City’s suitability for retirement housing.

One might say that Bamboo Airways’ entry into Vietnam’s aviation industry might be well aligned with Quy Nhon’s strategy to become the crown jewel of Central Vietnam.

For more about developments in Quy Nhon turn to page 14 or go to the Travel section on CityPassGuide.com.

From Our Partners

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Sparkling Celebrations at Sheraton Grand Danang Resort authentic Vietnamese dishes that are sure to satisfy every culinary whim. Pile your plate with all of your favourites and ring in the Year of the Pig surfside. A complimentary bottle of Louis Roederer rounds out the celebratory feeling.

Pack your bags and head to Sheraton Grand Danang for a laid-back and luxurious vacation. Celebration deals for the Lunar New Year and Valentine’s Day as well (as the endless infinity pool) make this the ideal location for the ultimate February get-away.

This swoon-worthy, 5-star resort on Vietnam’s central coast comes complete with swaying palms, white sands and the gentle sound of waves for background music. The Sheraton Grand Danang offers up everything you need to take your holiday to the next level. No stress, no interruptions from the outside world and the best part? It’s easily attainable from HCMC with only a 1.5-hour flight.

At the Sheraton Grand Danang, from the moment you enter the resort, you’re in another world. A world where panoramic views of blue waters and private beach stretch on to infinity.

The exterior of the hotel gives way to rooms whose pale tones are elevated with muted opulence, drawing attention to the turquoise waters of the sea beyond the windows and the plunge pool on the balcony. And if that isn’t enough to help you forget your worries for a while, imagine this: the hotel features a quarter-kilometre long infinity pool complete with a pool cabana serving craft cocktails, snacks and fresh juices.

Welcome to luxury. You’re going to want to stay awhile.

This February, let the Sheraton Grand Danang take care of the vacation planning. Whether you’re

prepping your Tết holiday with the whole family or stepping out of the city chaos for a little R&R with your special someone, look no further than the resort’s holiday packages and beachside bliss.

Sun, Sea, Spa and Sweets Until the 10th of February, if you book a minimum 2-night stay, you’ll enjoy Sheraton Grand Danang’s Sparkling Celebration deal— perfect timing for ringing in the lunar new year in chic comfort. After breakfast at Table 88, send the little ones to the Kids’ Club and head to the Shine Spa where the Sparkling Celebration deal will treat you to a soothing 20 percent off.

Most people would agree that the thing that defines holidays the most is the festive food.

Yet, there is one simple fact when it comes to family meals and that is that it’s impossible to please everyone. From dietary restrictions to the finicky palates of under-5 guests, holiday meals always account for a large percentage of organisational headaches. Leave the culinary stress behind and let everyone choose for themselves. The Tết Brunch at La Plage restaurant features a boundless selection of

For something really special and unique to Sheraton Grand Danang, try the Crab Fest Special at The Grill. Seven different types of crab are available and prepared to perfection.

Try this upscale restaurant’s signature Blue Crab Beignets, which are sure to please even the most discerning tastes. More treats for the new year include a Sweets Buffet in the Tea Lounge featuring the resort’s most delectable savouries and sweets as well as more than 25 world-class teas and Illy or Vietnamese coffees.

Sheraton Grand Danang is Passionate About Romance Spirit your loved one off to an idyllic retreat where chocolate-covered strawberries await you in your room. Speaking of rooms, two words: Honeymoon Suite. Grab your sweetheart, kick off your shoes and sip complimentary sparkling wine on your personal terrace. A simple call to room service and our staff will prepare a bespoke BBQ experience for you, served beachside, poolside or even in the comfort of your own room. Sheraton Grand Danang’s Ultimate Romance package takes care of all the details so that you can focus on what matters: spending time with the one you love.

There is even a cocktail-making class at the swanky Mix Bar, ideal for bringing a touch of vacation back home with you. No vacation days left in February?

Never fear, this special couple’s deal is available until 2 November 2019!

Late check-out is available until 3 p.m. for both packages, so don’t hesitate to have one last swim in the epic infinity pool before you go.

Details SHERATON GRAND DANANG RESORT 35 Truong Sa Street, Ngu Hanh Son, Da Nang (+84) 0236 3988 999 sheratongranddanang.com SPARKLING CELEBRATION Rates From VND 6,800,000++ ULTIMATE ROMANCE Rates From 7,500,000++ 7

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by Mervin Lee

TRAVEL FEATURE

The Ancient Town of Hoi An Morphing to Keep up with Changing Times

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in December 1999, Hoi An is definitely not a stranger to foreigners. What’s up next for this dreamy destination? City planning, green initiatives and perhaps a carrying capacity problem?

Rumour has it that the celebrated Japanese covered bridge in Hoi An’s old town is scheduled for renovation shortly, but until that happens, the show continues on a daily basis for curious tourists. The bridge, one of the last few surviving temple bridges in the world, was built in the late 16th century to connect the Japanese and Chinese trader enclaves on adjacent ends. To combat increasing sewage flow issues in the bridge’s vicinity, a new wastewater facility with a total daily processing capacity of 2000 cubic metres was completed after 19 months of construction. The total expenditure of approximately 1.1 billion Japanese yen came from Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) scheme. An estimated 1000 residents in five surrounding wards will benefit from this change.

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Hoi An: Vietnam’s Most Livable Town?

In October 2018, the German Corporation for International Cooperation (GIZ) sponsored 178,000 euros to fund a community-focused masterplan which aims to transform Hoi An into a bicycle-friendly city. The masterplan, which was born through mutual collaboration between the People’s Committee of Hoi An and Health Bridge Canada (https:// healthbridge.ca/), aims to introduce bicycle lanes and bicycle sharing schemes throughout the city. The masterplan is being helmed by Health Bridge Canada and is the newest plan to enter a greater umbrella scheme known as the “Vietnam: Livable Cities” project.

Other key elements of the scheme include

another masterplan which aims to create 79 new playgrounds for children by 2020 and to ensure that every child has access to a playground near their home. In an effort to promote occupational efficiency, the Hoi An Center for Cultural Heritage Management and Preservation launched an audio guide system for visitors in November 2018. The system will be available in five languages including Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese, French and English and was described by vice-director Mr. Pham Phu Ngoc as the first time that modern technology is being used as a tool to educate visitors about Hoi An’s history.

Environmental Initiatives in Hoi An Cu Lao Cham, a group of eight islands 20 km off the coast from Hoi An, has been steadfast with its efforts to keep the islands plastic-free.

Ten years ago, Hoi An’s Party Chief Mr. Nguyen Su swore that he would “rescue the

by Mervin Lee

TRAVEL FEATURE

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islands from drowning in a sea of plastic bags”, a potential disaster which might have resulted from a great influx of visitors since the early 2000s. The islands, popular with tourists as a day trip destination from Hoi An’s old town, have benefited greatly from the unexpected birth of a souvenir industry that focuses on biodegradable bags made from materials such as papyrus. In what might possibly be an attempt to mimic Cu Lao Cham’s environmentally friendly success, nearby Da Nang City launched a campaign in November 2018 to encourage residents and visitors to “Say No” to single-use plastic products in a bid to reduce pollution and waste treatment overheads.

The real estate scene in Hoi An is also receiving well-deserved attention from investors who are eyeing numerous projects sprouting in areas surrounding its scenic ancient town. Casamia Hoi An is one of the newest of recently introduced projects, sporting villas set in a Venetian-style boardwalk neighbourhood located right beside Cam Thanh commune’s beautiful Nipa Palm biosphere reserve area. A mere five minutes’ drive from Hoi An’s ancient town and An Bang beach, wealthy homeowners will also have easy access to their private yachts parked right outside their doorsteps. The property is being designed by famed architect, Mr. Vo Trong Nghia, in collaboration with MIA Design Studios which is also based in Ho Chi Minh City. Vo Trong Nghia’s work has been described as 21st century green and

sustainable architecture amalgamated with local Asian materials and expression.

Hoi An City Planning Construction for one of central Vietnam’s wildest gaming projects, Hoiana, commenced on 17 August 2017 and has been proceeding as planned. The US$4 billion project will cover an area of 1000 hectares and will include retail space, restaurants and recreational facilities such as a golf course and a water park. After some initial obstacles which involved securing a loan from a local

bank, Hong Kong-based Suncity Group finally acquired a 34% stake in the project on 29 August 2018 and has has thus become a major driving force and decision maker behind the project alongside VinaCapital Group and Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Ltd. from Hong Kong. Although local Vietnamese are not permitted to gamble in their home country, Hoiana is scheduled to open in 2019 and it is believed that Suncity Group’s expertise in luring high-stake punters from mainland China to its venues in Macau will make Hoiana very profitable.

Last but not least, perhaps the most stunning development pertaining to Hoi An is a recent summoning of investors by Danang City’s Department of Planning and Investment to assist in the development of an urban rail system which will connect Danang International Airport with Hoi An’s city centre. The planned 33 km line will run along the region’s sandy beaches and is estimated to cost a total of VND15 trillion (US$650 million), part of which will be funded via the Official Development Assistance (ODA) scheme as well as the Public Private Partnership (PPP) programme which serves as a channel for private investors to invest in projects helmed by government agencies.

One final question that remains to be answered amid all of these developments is how Hoi An will be able to support all these imminent infrastructure changes?

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TRAVEL FEATURE

by Aileen Murphy

The rise of Korean Travellers in Vietnam

Vietnam has overnight become one of the most desirable holiday destinations for South Korean travellers this winter, but what’s influenced this sudden surge in popularity?

The tourism market for Korean travellers to Vietnam has expanded at a rapid rate over the past three years. South Koreans are closely following Chinese tourists as the most significant tourist group in Vietnam and together make up over half of all foreign visitors. However, Korea is projected to soon surpass China with a growth rate of 55.3 percent per year, while the Chinese growth rate has slowed over the last year.

According to the latest statistical data published by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT), over the past 10 months of 2018, there have been 2,867,380 Korean inbound visitors, a substantial increase in comparison to the around 1,000,000 back in 2015.

In October of this year alone, 303,417 South Korean tourists entered Vietnam, closely following Chinese tourists at 371,361. The recent influx of Korean tourists could be a reflection of the increasingly prosperous relations between the two nations, which is significantly notable within the new generation.

Although English still holds the top spot as the most commonly learned second language, the number of young Vietnamese learning Korean has considerably risen in popularity, partly due to their interest in Korean celebrity culture such as K-pop and Korean dramas.

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The improved ties have impacted not only cultural relations but also political ones. Amended diplomatic trade agreements are set to make Vietnam and South Korea US$100 billion in revenue, and South Korea will be Vietnam’s second-largest export market by 2020.

Convenient and CostEffective Travel Between Vietnam and South Korea

as Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines have been long-standing popular honeymoon destinations for Koreans but now the luxury beach resorts of Da Nang are giving them a run for their money.

Swapping the Cold Korean Winter for Vietnam’s Beaches

South Korea, in turn, has also become a top market for Vietnamese travellers.

Consequently, more and more air routes are being introduced and visa restrictions have been loosened allowing the use of e-visas and a 15-day visa exemption.

Da Nang is the top-visited destination for South Korean travellers in Vietnam, followed respectively by Hanoi and Saigon. The central region welcomed 1.3 million South Korean tourists last year escaping the cold Korean winter for a warmer climate.

There are currently eight air carriers that operate between the countries with plans to increase their frequency and range of destinations— including seven direct flights per week between Da Nang and Daegu being introduced on 22 December 2018. The flight itself is also relatively short at just over four hours and a return ticket can cost as little as VND4.5 million (US$190).

Interest in Da Nang was intensified when a dominant South Korean tour operator, Ticket Monster Inc., cited Da Nang as one of the world’s top 10 destinations favoured by South Korean families and couples. Da Nang city has many tourist attractions including the 67-metre-tall Lady Buddha statue and the recently built “Golden Bridge” that caused a media storm online and subsequently boosted tourism in the area. Da Nang is also revered for its miles and miles of stunning coastlines and well-kept beaches.

But this is comparable to other neighbouring Southeast Asian countries. Destinations such

TRAVEL FEATURE

by Aileen Murphy

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on luxury as long as there is good-quality service; if there is good service and a good atmosphere they are willing to spend their money”.

How Could the Hospitality Industry Improve to Cater to Korean Tourists?

South Korean tourists like to visit multiple locations during a short stay, so the accessibility between Da Nang and the surrounding attractions is inviting. The city is only a stone’s throw away from the UNESCO World Heritage ancient town of Hoi An. Nha Trang is also seeing its fair share of Korean tourists that are mainly middle class 25 to 45 year olds, according to Remi Faubel, General Manager of Novotel Nha Trang. Faubel explained that like Da Nang, the increase in tourism in Nha Trang is likely related to the area’s sunny beaches.

“Korean tourists are discreet, well educated, good customers”, Faubel said. “In terms of spending, Koreans are not good. They don’t spend money on local products; they don’t come for shopping.

Koreans mainly come to Vietnam to relax and enjoy the beach, entertainment and bars.”

What Level of Service do Korean Tourists Expect?

Speaking to #iAMHCMC, the Marketing and PR Manager at the Lotte Legend hotel, Ms Nguyen Thi Thu Thao, said she had noticed a substantial increase in Korean guests visiting the hotel even during the past month-and-a-half. She explained that the 5-star Lotte Legend hotel has a mixed international clientele but is also a favourite with Koreans, partially due to its worldwide reputation.

She said, “Koreans choose the Lotte legend hotel as it’s a respected brand around the world”.

The average demographic of Korean tourists who stay at the Saigon riverfront-located hotel is high-class travellers aged between 30 and 50, who expect top-quality service. Nguyen said, “Korean customers do not hesitate to spend their money

Implementing new strategies to cash-in on the flourishing Korean market in Vietnam is becoming a top priority for tour guides and hotels. However, some services in Vietnam still need drastic improvements to persuade Korean holidaymakers to spend more and stay for longer.

The director of the Korean Cultural Centre in Vietnam, Mr Keum Gi Hyung, recently met with the VNAT in Hanoi to try and solve any remaining barriers between the nations that could be hindering further tourism success. Hyung said at the meeting that providing top-quality tours, professional tourist-guide training, and increased control of agents would ensure the growth rate would continue. Korea offered support in training management teams and tour guides.

He also strongly suggested a heightened focus on improving traffic safety. Vietnam is infamous for its chaotic and sometimes dangerous roads, especially in big congested cities such as Saigon and Hanoi.

Korean tourists who aren’t used to the disorder can find it unappealing for a holiday destination. But Hyung’s advice wasn’t solely contrary. He praised Vietnam for its impressive scenery, delicious food, and friendly and hospitable people.

Like this article? Read more about Hoi An in the Travel section on CityPassGuide.com

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by Mark Gwyther

TRAVEL FEATURE

The Endless Summer in Ninh Thuan Province Ninh Thuan is hot on Mui Ne’s heels to become the go-to place for watersports tourism in Vietnam. Kitesurfers are flocking to the still pristine coastline to find their perfect wave, but will that last as traditional tourism increases as well?

Like Acapulco, Bali and many other famous beach destinations, it was adrenaline junkies looking for the next big wave who ‘discovered’ Ninh Thuan’s coastline. With dramatic cliffs dropping into the sparkling blue ocean and a dry climate matching Greece’s Aegean region, the Vietnamese province is increasingly becoming a favourite spot for kitesurfers from around the world.

Kitesurfing is becoming a mainstream sport. With nearly two million enthusiasts worldwide it will be included in the 2024 Summer Olympics for the first time. Jumping on a surfboard and being pulled by a giant kite has captivated some of the world’s most influential people such as Richard Branson, Larry Page and President Barack Obama.

In 2016, Forbes Magazine claimed kitesurfing was the new golf for business executives.

It was only 10 years ago when a few of these adventurous people drove motorbikes north 12 | iamhcmc.com/gazette

from Mui Ne up the coast and past the city of Phan Rang. Passing goats on a narrow one-lane road winding through small hamlets and fishing villages, they made their way to the ocean where the wind was roaring. At first it was a group of South Koreans who began coming every year, spending three months in the area. A Vietnamese kitesurfer from Mui Ne also began bringing his friends to his secret spots and soon the word spread. However, back in those days the drive took all day and no beach facilities existed for the kiters, meaning only the very adventurous made the trip.

Progress Towards Becoming a Sports Tourism Destination By 2014, things began to change. New roads and bridges were completed. A coastal road was widened and extended making the spots easily

accessible from the nearby city of Phan Rang. The early explorers to the area began developing simple shelters and offering local food and drinks at their favourite spots. A beach club catering to kiters opened. Each year their numbers doubled and by 2016, word was spreading well beyond Vietnam.

That year in February, The Kiteboard Tour Asia held Vietnam’s largest professional kitesurfing event in Ninh Thuan. In the summer, one of the leading kitesurfing equipment manufacturers launched an important new product line at Ninh Chu Bay. Marketing photos taken of that week’s activities still circulate through the sport’s media.

Kitesurfing publications noticed too. That year articles appeared in two issues of Kite World Magazine and Ninh Thuan was featured in The Kiteboarder Magazine’s top international destinations publication—a first for Vietnam.

Remarkably, Ninh Thuan and the capital city of Phan Rang may be better known in international kitesurfing circles than among foreigners who live in Vietnam.

It is the area’s unique geography and climate that attract the kitesurfers. My Hoa lagoon,

by Mark Gwyther

20 km from Phan Rang, is a huge coral reef that keeps the shallow water butter smooth but with clean-breaking offshore waves. From beginners to world-class, the spot is perfect for all levels and all types of kitesurfers. Adjacent to Phan Rang is the eight kilometre crescent, Ninh Chu Bay. The beach is lined by three-star resorts where kiters can walk from their room and jump on their board.

The climate is also distinct. Never cold, the province receives the least amount of rain in Vietnam and the most sunny days. Winter storms that typically pass nearby generate strong northerly winds but very little rain. In the summer the southerly trade winds get supercharged by the arid land to the south. Not many coastal locations boast two distinct wind seasons that allow kiting for over 10 months of the year.

A few professional windsurfers train in Ninh Thuan during the winter and equipment rental and lessons are available. Also, the best surfing waves in Vietnam break five kilometres north of beautiful Vinh Hy Bay. A handful of adventurous surfers already ride them during the winter. Ninh Thuan also offers other activities. One of the largest coral reefs in the northern hemisphere lies just off the coast and it is starting to be explored by snorkellers and scuba divers. Back on dry land, the hills around the area are perfect for trekking and mountain biking.

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Change is Imminent but Enjoy the Cool Surfer Vibe for Now Growth in the area’s sport tourism continues doubling every year. The South Korean group just arrived for this season—their 10th year.

They will be joined by groups from Finland, Poland, Lithuania, Hong Kong and thousands of individual kiters from countries all over the globe. Quite a few of these kiters now return every winter creating a closeness of community you don’t feel in most places. On a given day, upwards of 200 kites cross back and forth along My Hoa Lagoon.

The facilities have grown to match the demand. Four large kite schools have opened, each with a restaurant and rooms. Guesthouses and house rentals are popping up near the kite spots and locals who never may have seen a foreigner before are now developing businesses focused on them. Land that was thought nearly worthless five years ago is in demand as Ninh Thuan’s coastline is suddenly a hot commodity.

Just like Bali, Ninh Thuan will change. The Australian surfers in the early 1970s were adventurous, off-the-beaten-path explorers.

Those days are already in Ninh Thuan’s

#iAMHCMC

rearview mirror. Transportation has improved to the point where travel from the airport or train station takes less than an hour. The wide roads and light traffic make renting a motorbike relatively safe. Hi-speed internet, ATMs, grocery stores, pizza, and soon a movie theatre, are available in town.

The same wind and sun the kitesurfers enjoy now make Ninh Thuan the centre of Vietnam’s renewable energy industry.

Hundreds of foreign energy workers stay in the area and more projects are starting.

Finally, traditional tourism is also growing.

Several highrise resort projects are being constructed along Ninh Chu Bay, and hidden away 10 kilometres past My Hoa rests the most exclusive resort in Vietnam (where many celebrities have tried their hand at kitesurfing). Even at My Hoa lagoon, kiters can take a break and lie next to the swimming pool while eating some of the best lasagna in Vietnam and drinking a cold craft beer.

If you have ever wanted to experience a cool surf culture vibe or you just want to break up your normal routine, Ninh Thuan is at that perfect crossroads of being both adventurous and accessible.

Like this article? Read more about Ninh Thuan and sports tourism on CityPassGuide.com 13

#iAMHCMC

TRAVEL FEATURE

by J.K. Hobson

Recent Developments in International Tourism Turn Quy Nhon into a Hotspot North any further, because you don’t have more than six months of sunny season, whereas in Quy Nhon you have 10 months outside of the rainy season.” Grundi-Hong takes out a photo of a clean, sunny beach with calm, clear waters.

“This is the bad season!” he says.

According to the Saigon Times, Tuy Hoa Airport in the south-central province of Phu Yen was expected to begin welcoming international flights in November 2018.

Dinh Viet Thang, head of the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam, said that the authority has been completing procedures to begin hosting international flights, with the first arriving from Russia.

Quy Nhon could well be the next up-and-coming travel destination for beach-goers seeking a quiet getaway in Vietnam. A new airport offering international flights plus pristine beaches equal a sure-fire recipe for increased tourism.

Quy Nhon is underrated, but that may not be the case for long. The central coastal city in Binh Dinh province is becoming the target of a huge wave of development, as prospectors seek out a new beach city to turn into Vietnam’s next big tourist destination.

Travellers so far have been more likely to visit neighbouring cities such as Da Nang and Nha Trang that are known to be developed, have attractive beaches, and are also home to international airports.

The Buzz About Quy Nhon has a Lot to do with its New Airport That said, Quy Nhon has got quite a lot going for it, and developers are setting up for what they think might be a tourism goldrush. Its remote location, beautiful beaches, clear ocean waters and ancient ruins, put it on British newspaper 14 | iamhcmc.com/gazette

The Guardian’s top 10 list of sun destinations for the winter of 2018. It also earned a spot on the Dozen Dream Destinations for 2019 list for popular travel website Remote Lands.

Quy Nhon is 650km from Saigon, 300km from Da Nang City and over 1,000km from Hanoi.

This makes it a perfect getaway for locals, and for adventurous travellers seeking a quiet escape off the beaten path. One of the main reasons Quy Nhon is attracting attention is the opening of international airports nearby. #iAMHCMC spoke with TJ Grundi-Hong from Epikurean Hotels & Lifestyle, a prominent resort developer in Asia. “Do expect to see more international flights in the near future, most likely in the next 36 to 48 months. On that coast, from Song Cau to Quang Nam, you’re going to see a lot of development in the near future. “[Places like Nha Trang and Da Nang are] highly saturated and it’s getting extreme sensitive. Where can you go? You can’t go up

Grundi-Hong explained, “If I was an airline operator, especially a charter operator, I would rather land in Tuy Hoa and move my customers north and south, rather than to land in Cam Ranh. To travel from Cam Ranh to Nha Trang is 60km; from Tuy Hoa, it’s 100km.

The difference being that there’s zero traffic, it’s way cheaper and there’s way more negotiation power with the hotels in those areas”.

Quy Nhon is More Than Just a Beach Town History buffs will want to visit Thap Doi Twin Towers, remnants from the Cham civilisation in Vietnam’s central region. Unlike much Cham architecture, the Thap Doi Towers are quite accessible, meaning you won’t have to climb hills in the blazing midday heat.

For anyone seeking a quiet getaway in a lovely Southeast Asian beachtown that isn’t overrun by tourism and development, visit Quy Nhon. You might want to get in while the getting is good.

This is an excerpt. Read the full article on the Blog section of CityPassGuide.com or turn to page 6 for more about Quy Nhon’s aviation developments

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#iAMHCMC

F&B FEATURE

From an interview by Damien Bazin; adapted by Karen Wise

Organic Seafood Production in Vietnam; an Interview with Antoine Bui Antoine Bui sits down with #iAMHCMC to explain the trials and tribulations of organic seafood production in Vietnam and why going organic is more important now than ever.

Today’s consumers are increasingly socially and environmentally conscious. No longer are they eating simply to survive. A growing number want to be sure of the quality of what they are consuming, know where it has come from, how it’s been produced and any subsequent impact on the natural environment. Local producers are taking note of this trend thanks to people like Antoine Bui, a man with a passion for developing local organic production here in Vietnam. Bui is Representative Office Manager of Binca, a German company that distributes seafood products in Europe and Vietnam.

Bui’s interest in organic food production started early in his career during a stint as a consultant conducting market studies related to Vietnam. Already someone at the forefront of new trends, having opened a pasta restaurant in Poitiers, a student city in the west of France, at a time when pasta 16 | iamhcmc.com/gazette

was just beginning to hit the food scene, Bui moved back to Vietnam to work as Sales and Marketing Director at Aquaservice, specialists in tilapia production. It is here that he learnt about organic seafood production and certification from Mr Philippe Serene, General Director of Proconco and Aquaservice and a consultant for a German company distributing seafood products in Europe.

Since foreign companies could not purchase land, Bui’s first mission was to secure partnerships with local fish farmers willing to go organic. Not an easy sell, 15 years ago, when the focus was on quantity, minimising costs and making a modest living. As it happened, all that was needed was one person, Ms Nguyen Thi Dung, an aquaculture engineer by training, who had her concerns about farming processes at the time. She was shocked to see that whole

ponds were being treated with antibiotics without any distinction between sick and healthy fish and that epidemics were prevalent in the high density farms. Her misgivings made her immediately receptive to Bui’s approaches. A collaboration was formed and Ms Dung set up her first organic farm at Long Xuyen.

Challenges and Opportunities for Organic Producers in Vietnam At the heart of organic seafood is the quality of the environment and adherence to recognised stringent criteria. Profits come later. Organic is not for those seeking to make a quick buck or wanting to cut corners.

You need to be a true believer working with a partner as devoted as you are. Converting a conventional fish farm into an organic one can take up to three years. Radical changes must be made throughout the entire business including seemingly basic hygiene matters such as not throwing used cigarette butts

by Damien Bazin, Karen Wise

F&B FEATURE

The Future of Organic in Vietnam; Will the Trend Last?

anywhere. In order to get certification, the whole farm must be organic—a mix of conventional and organic is not allowed— something that not everyone appreciates.

Regulations must be met. The European Union, for example, forbids the use of reproductive hormones. Creation of optimal atmospheric conditions for the natural reproduction of pangasius presents a huge challenge for organic farmers in Vietnam.

Nevertheless, certification labels are important as they give producers credibility in the overseas market.

For those that are unable to get organic certification, the Global GAP Aquaculture and Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) standards, which allow the use of antibiotics under certain conditions and with strict tracking, offer an intermediary option. Producers in the Mekong Delta, seeing the growing concern over food safety among the middle classes, are taking an interest in these intermediary labels.

Bui hopes that once they understand them he will be able recruit more suppliers.

Seafood is not the only organic food item today’s consumers are looking for. Demand for vegetables, fruits and poultry is also on the rise.

Producers, recognising this and having heard of Bui’s work, are approaching him for advice on how to switch to organic farming. The EU and Naturland organically-certified fruits and vegetables of this first collaboration will be available on the domestic market in early 2019.

#iAMHCMC

Mr. Charles Antoine Bui, Sales and Marketing Director at Aquaservice

According to Bui this organic movement offers a lot of opportunities. Shortages at stores are common particularly in Hanoi where consumers are perhaps more affluent.

He also suspects Hanoians are wary of the many Chinese products flooding the market and have a greater trust in local produce. He has yet to witness such shortages in Ho Chi Minh City; however, he estimates that of the 10 million inhabitants of the metropolis 1.4 percent of them consume organic products on a regular basis spending around VND1,000,000 per month. He is convinced that a similar study in Hanoi would show even greater numbers.

One might wonder if this trend is sustainable in Vietnam. In Bui’s opinion, yes. Over the past two to three years the Vietnamese consumer has grown increasingly sophisticated and organic is seen as a guarantee of quality compared to products traditionally available to them. The number of farms declaring themselves organic producers is increasing particularly in the Hanoi area, so much so that the Vietnamese government recognises that clarity around what is truly organic is going to be needed.

In fact, Bui would go as far as to say that, were he a younger man, he’d start a chain of organic stores selling an extensive range of organic products including cosmetics, highlighting the international appeal of such items.

As to how the trend first started, Bui puts it down to the Vietnamese diaspora, especially those emanating from California where, of course, organic production has been popular for many years. He goes on to cite the example of an organic pepper producer who converted following the advice of his brother living in California.

Like this article? Read more about organic production on CityPassGuide.com

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F&B FEATURE

by Lucie Sherwood

Female Chefs

You Should Know About In Vietnam In a traditionally male-dominated industry, let’s hear it for four of the most talented and exciting female chefs shaking up the restaurant scene in Vietnam right now.

NIKKI TRAN Cau Ba Quan and Cau Ba Noodles Restaurants in Saigon

Many of us have an image of professional kitchens as being something of a boy’s club, despite women traditionally doing most of the cooking in private homes for centuries. Whilst women still account for a relatively low portion of professional chefs globally, there are more women enrolling for training and a number of female chefs rank among the best in the world, earning major accolades and awards. As Vietnam’s food landscape grows and evolves, more restaurants are opening and drawing in big talents, both local and foreign. Among these rising stars are several talented female chefs who are shaking up Vietnam’s culinary scene with their unique take on Vietnamese and international cuisines, often drawing influence from their diverse geographical backgrounds.

TAM LE Saigonita Concept Restaurant in Saigon Facebook: m.me/saigonita

Tam Le’s Saigonita is a concept restaurant that reinterprets Mexican cuisine through the lens of Vietnamese ingredients and dishes. The creator and chef hosts her intimate pop-up dinners on select evenings every month.

Already, Saigonita is storming the foodie scene in Saigon, with its dinners booked-out two months in advance.

Tam was raised in Texas before leaving to work in branding in New York, where she recalls beginning to make her own tortillas after 18 | iamhcmc.com/gazette

Facebook: Nikkitranhai

Famous for her appearance on the Netflix hit series Ugly Delicious, Nikki Tran is dishing up her brand of ‘Viejun’ (Vietnamese-Cajun) food in her two modern Vietnamese seafood restaurants: Cau Ba Quan and Cau Ba Noodles in Ho Chi Minh City. As a Saigon native who has spent time in Houston, Texas, Nikki describes her cooking as a collaboration between cultures, rather than‘fusion’.

discovering that she couldn’t get hold of freshly made tortillas in the city. As a Texas-born Vietnamese, she grew up eating both Mexican and Vietnamese cuisines and says, “to combine them was only natural to me”.

After moving to Vietnam, Tam developed her exciting Vietnamese-Mexican food with encouragement from her friends. The menu changes depending on what’s in season and the chef’s mood—Tam describes her Huế-vos Rancheros as a current crowd favourite.

Tam doesn’t consider her gender to be a challenge in Vietnam’s culinary world. She explains, “I see so many opportunities in Vietnam”, although, she acknowledges that the industry is very male-dominated.

Nikki never trained as a professional chef, nor did she have any aspirations to cook, but she was thrown into the kitchen when the chef didn’t show up on the opening night. Now

by Lucie Sherwood

her aspiration is to bring modern Vietnamese food to the mainstream.

Nikki acknowledges the challenges of working in a male-dominated industry, describing how gaining authority in the kitchen can be difficult for women working in a traditionally patriarchal society, and that the conventional female roles within a Vietnamese family can limit the ability to work long hours.

Nevertheless, Nikki feels that there are a lot of opportunities out there for aspiring female chefs, stating, “the creativity brought by women is highly anticipated and appreciated”. She advises women to be tough in the kitchen and to have confidence that female chefs can do whatever male chefs can do, whether it’s scaling a fish or butchering a whole cow.

NGUYỄN THỊ HỒNG HUỆ Stoker Restaurant in Saigon info@stokerwoodfiredgrill.com

F&B FEATURE

#iAMHCMC

Stoker has been making waves in Saigon’s culinary scene for some time now, and its Junior Sous Chef, Nguyễn Thị Hồng Huệ, is one of the restaurant’s rising stars. Stoker’s speciality is cooking meats using various techniques involving fire, perhaps making the presence of a strong female chef even more unusual.

After studying finance and embarking on her chef’s training, Hue joined Stoker where she has worked with the Executive Chef, George Bloomfield, to create new signature dishes for the steakhouse, including Smoked Milk Panna Cotta and Woodfired Basque Cheesecake.

Hue explains that she finds Ho Chi Minh City “one of the best places to explore local and international food”, with its eclectic range of restaurants and diverse food scene. Hue highlighted that this environment creates lots of opportunities for female chefs, saying that “women, in general, are well-known for being careful, resourceful and tidy, which are good values for a chef”.

shows including the Asia Food Channel’s ‘Home-cooked Vietnam’. Since its opening, Nen has received wide attention, being visited by the Prime Minister of New Zealand and three-Michelin-star Chef Dominique Crenn from the US.

SUMMER LE Nen Restaurant in Danang

Summer explains her food philosophy as “utilising local ingredients and making them the star of the dishes”. She describes her food as “a reflection of myself... creative, intellectual, with great attention to detail”. She explains that she especially loves to experiment with elevating often overlooked ingredients in Vietnamese cuisine, such as duck.

Now an unofficial global ambassador for Central Vietnamese cuisine, Summer Le has been dishing up her take on the food of her home-region at her acclaimed restaurant, Nen, since August 2017. The ethos of Nen is to push the boundaries of modern Vietnamese cuisine whilst retaining its core values.

Summer feels Vietnam is open-minded when it comes to women in the workplace in comparison with some of its neighbouring countries. She points out that the industry is heavily maledominated, but cites the physical requirements of the job as one of the reasons for this.

Before opening her restaurant, she was a food blogger and has been featured on several cooking

Like this article? Read the full story at CityPassGuide.com in the Blog section.

summerle.com/foodtour/

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F&B FEATURE

by Ly Quoc Dang & Laura Nalin

Sustainable Farms Fight Poverty in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta Two Mekong Delta-based companies are working toward successful sustainable farming solutions while helping locals drive themselves out of poverty.

Tucked away behind the banks of the Mekong Delta lies the Y-Farm, formally known as the Mekong Youth Farm Network. Y-Farm, a groundbreaking sustainable farming initiative, is making a positive impact in Can Tho City in more ways than one. The project, led by Ly Quoc Dang, aims to improve the livelihood of local community members while also serving as an education for young generations in Vietnam on the importance of renewable, eco-friendly efforts.

The Y-Farm project is linked with the Warm Hold Association, a volunteer-led nonprofit working with HIV-positive individuals in the Mekong region.

The impassioned constituents of the Y-Farm are a mixture of local community members as well as applicants of The Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative, a small grants competition for young leaders in Southeast Asia. There are currently nine members of the Mekong Youth Farm Network; the team is from five different countries. The network assists more than 250 young people within the district as 20 | iamhcmc.com/gazette

well as 25 young farmers and students. The ultimate goal is to encourage youth in the area to become interested in organic agriculture while promoting income improvement for disadvantaged women.

Why the Binh Thuy District is an Ideal Eco-Farming Location in Vietnam Binh Thuy District, where the farms are located, is known for its lush green spaces and its expansive vegetable production. The fact that the farm functions in this region is what makes the program successful. Two of the main goals of Y-Farm are to provide parttime jobs for impoverished women living within the local provinces as well as provide free, healthy and safe food for orphaned children.

The network is committed to helping poor community members rise out of poverty and proves itself in several ways. Much of the

farm’s produce is sold at local shops, serving as an affordable alternative for poor and homeless locals.

While the Mekong Youth Farm Network mainly functions as spaces for farmers, volunteers and researchers to do their work, some of the farms also serve as an opportunity for tourists to gain insight into life in Can Tho City. If they’d like, tourists can link up with a local family and stay on their farm for a few days for an unmatched experience.

How One Company’s Transparency is Changing the Sustainability Game The Y-Farm isn’t the only project in the Binh Thuy District working toward sustainability.

Les Vergers du Mekong, the Orchards of the Mekong River, has been working directly with local farmers since 2000. The Frenchowned company has established long-term relationships with community agriculturists, and produces gourmet coffee, honey, juices, tea and jam. According to the company’s website, the orchards generate what is estimated to

by Ly Quoc Dang & Laura Nalin

F&B FEATURE

#iAMHCMC

The company’s unique business model has become a staple in the region and will continue to seek ways to build upon a sustainable future in Vietnam and beyond.

“Real sustainability can only be truly achieved when all parts of the value chain work together and especially to integrate the small farmers in the food value chains”, Boyadjian said. “Sourcing for shared value reinforces our contribution to preserving the environment, stimulating the well-being of communities and securing resources for the long term. By building sustainable value chains, we seek to revitalise rural communities, improve the living standards of the small-scale farmers, and increase the quality and quantity of fruits they produce”. be more than six million tons of fruit per year, with more than 30 different varieties, including mango, pineapple, raspberries and passionfruit.

Sophie Boyadjian, Export and Marketing Director for Les Vergers du Mekong, stated that operating business in such close proximity to the farmers in Binh Thuy District has done wonders for all involved. From the very beginning, the company’s founder Jean-Luc Voisin created a unique business model with the concept of farm-to-table in mind. The presence of the strong local supply chain combined with the processing of natural products that get directly distributed throughout Vietnam

is what has made his business so successful in the region.

Boyadjian added that a common goal of Les Vergers du Mekong is to share the success with the famers, staff and community as a whole. During the early stages of business, Voisin and his team invested in a program to successfully integrate local farmers into the larger supply chain. By creating several training centres throughout the Binh Thuy District, the company has been able to collect fruits with 100 percent traceability, preserve the natural ecosystems and promote environmental agriculture certifications, according to Boyadjian.

Although programs like the Y-Farm and Les Vergers du Mekong are currently few and far between, it will be absolutely necessary to integrate sustainable efforts into Vietnam’s business efforts in order for it to thrive.

The nation’s absence of practical recycling solutions combined with unhealthy food production practices are driving it to a point of recklessness, many of its citizens suffering as a result. With companies looking toward the future, Vietnam can successfully join the global ranks—both economically and sustainably.

Like this article? Read more about Can Tho and organic production on CityPassGuide.com

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LEISURE FEATURE

by J.K. Hobson

Hanoi to Host Formula One’s First Race in April of 2020 Hanoi has announced that it will be hosting The Vietnamese Grand Prix, Formula One’s first race in Vietnam. It will be a yearly event starting in April 2020.

Hanoi to Host F1 Round Start your engines, because Formula One racing is coming to Hanoi! To be known as The Vietnamese Grand Prix, the race will be added to Formula One’s calendar scheduled for April 2020, according to CNN.

Vingroup and F1 Join Forces Vingroup, which is controlled by property developer, and Vietnam’s first billionaire, Pham Nhat Vuong, is hosting the race as part of a multi-year deal with sports owner Formula One in a bid to broaden the series’ appeal by creating events in new locations around the globe.

F1’s chief executive Chase Carey told CNN, “Since we became involved in this sport in 2017, we have talked about developing new destination cities to broaden the appeal of Formula 1 and the Vietnamese Grand Prix is a realisation of that ambition”.

22 | iamhcmc.com/gazette

Nguyen Duc Chung, Chairman of the city of Hanoi, proudly stated, “It’s a further demonstration of Vietnam’s ability, as one of the fastest growing economies in the world, to host events on a global scale and attract tourism to the country. It provides an opportunity for inward investment to Vietnam and importantly to bring the exciting wheel to wheel racing of Formula 1 to the people of Vietnam”, as reported on the F1 website.

Nguyen Viet Quang, Vice-Chairman and CEO of Vingroup, added,”We are excited to see that our work with Formula One to secure this deal has finally come to fruition. An essential part of this collaboration has been making sure that we not only showcase the city of Hanoi but also deliver an exciting race for Formula One fans in Vietnam and around the world”, as reported by ESPN.

Only the Fourth Street Race in F1 History Vietnam’s is the fourth and newest addition to the Asian leg of F1’s calendar, which already

includes China, Singapore and Japan. The race will be F1’s fourth street race, following the iconic Monaco race, Singapore and Azerbaijan.

The Vietnamese Grand Prix is the first new race to be announced since Liberty Media purchased the F1 organisation in a US$4.6 billion deal in early 2017.

The track being proposed in Hanoi will be 5.565km in length and will feature over 22 turns in a unique hybrid design which will combine street racing and a countryside track. According to the F1 website, “The aim was to create a unique hybrid layout, fusing a street circuit’s characteristics with a permanent countryside track layout within the confines of the city’s topography”. One of the track’s straightaways will be 1.5km in length and will will enable cars to reach speeds of over 300 km/h, according to the BBC. Formula One also stepped up its promotion game this year by hiring Bryan Tyler, the Emmy-nominated composer who scored the Fast and the Furious franchise to compose the organisation’s official theme song.

Like this article? Keep up to date on the latest F1 developments as they happen on CityPassGuide.com

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#iAMHCMC

LEISURE/ENTERTAINMENT

by Sivaraj Pragasm

Understanding the Ecosystem that is HCMC’s Nightlife Nightlife in Saigon is quickly gaining a reputation for being one of the most vibrant and diverse in Southeast Asia. How did it all start and how far can it go?

How and When Did It All Start?

The evolution of the city’s nightlife scene is as dramatic as the history of the city itself.

During the American War, the city saw a sizeable population of foreign journalists residing here as correspondents. They mostly frequented hotel bars, sipping on cocktails while churning out news reports pertaining to the war. Hotel Majestic, The Rex and The Caravelle were some of the most popular with the latter subsequently becoming the unofficial American media headquarters during the war, as described in a journal written by Steve Somerville, a former correspondent for Reuters based in Vietnam.

Tu Do Nightclub was the nightlife institution of that era. The club brought together American and Vietnamese patrons looking for great live

music courtesy of legendary performers like Tuan Ngoc and Khanh Ly, among many others.

Sowing the Seeds for the Club Scene in HCMC With Doi Moi, Vietnam embraced a free market economy in the late ’80s and early ’90s, effectively marking its growth as a nation. It also saw an increasing number of foreign businesses setting up base here. The city saw the return of establishments catering for music, alcohol and entertainment.

As the 2000s rapidly streamed past us, technology started shrinking things and music production tools got condensed into computer software programs. Young Vietnamese musicians eager to create their own sound began producing their own brand of electronic music designed to give you that extra pump in life and soon enough, Vinahouse was born. Its

polarising reach did not stop beer clubs from popping up all across the city, much to the delight of young locals with a penchant for loud music and towers of booze.

Electronic music had, by 2010, become a global trend and Vietnam embraced it wholeheartedly.

This also coincided with HCMC’s magnificent economic growth and this resulted in an increasing number of foreigners living and working here. In what could be seen as a genuine exchange of culture, they also brought along their favourite music from their homes to the city. Clubs, lounges, bars and rooftop bars started opening across the city, providing a diverse range of music, both mainstream and underground.

According to Dan Bimong, founder of The Observatory, “I started The Observatory with the idea of having a venue where we can invite artists from all around the world that fit with my musical perspective that is clearly focused on a wide range of house, disco, techno and affiliated sounds”.

At the turn of this decade, those genres were still only limited to small parties within common circles, mainly among expats.

“The idea was also to have a place that is fully dedicated to that activity with a decent sound system and a programme with international guests every weekend in order to give the opportunity for the city to see artists that never had the chance to come to play in Vietnam”, Bimong added.

24 | iamhcmc.com/gazette

by Sivaraj Pragasm

A Thriving Nightlife Ecosystem While clubs like Envy, SkyXX, Kasho and Chill SkyBar serve those who are looking for the mainstream EDM club experience, venues like Lush and Piu Piu go one step further by organising themed events featuring specific genres of music like hip hop and bass music.

The Lighthouse and Arcan cater to those looking for purely underground electronic music genres like techno, house, drum & bass and psytrance with plenty of independently organised events featuring international DJs. There has also been a massive increase in the number of young Vietnamese DJs and music

LEISURE/ENTERTAINMENT FEATURE

producers in the city mainly due to a rising level of awareness and interest, with DJ academies run by organisations like Pioneer Music catering to them. This has created a revolving door of talented DJs playing in clubs across the country, performing alongside experienced foreign DJs currently living in HCMC, and even touring the region. Locally produced music festivals have also brought in big-name DJs and producers like Deadmau5, Ferry Corsten, Armin van Buuren, Hardwell and Steve Angello to the city, playing to large crowds.

Establishments like Drinking & Healing, Snuffbox and Firkin have provided residents and tourists with bespoke cocktails created by skilled bartenders and mixologists, all accompanied by specially curated music.

#iAMHCMC

Homegrown breweries like Heart of Darkness, East West, Te Te, Winking Seal and at least a dozen others have opened more than just venues for beer aficionados. They have also created a scene that’s slowly gaining global recognition.

How Far Will It Go? Since nightlife is constantly evolving in Saigon, it has already started playing a significant role in the tourism industry with music lovers from across the continent travelling here to check out the increasingly vibrant nightlife scene in the city.

“We have noticed it at The Observatory while talking to our customers. Almost every weekend, we meet people from Hong Kong, Singapore or Bangkok just to name a few cities, who come here to enjoy our vibrant nightlife. It’s definitely growing, so let’s see what will happen in the next few years”, added Dan Bimong.

From the chaotic backpacker-filled bars of Bui Vien Street to glossy speakeasy bars, EDM clubs and rooftop bars, HCMC’s nightlife can be described as an ecosystem catering to almost everyone—locals as well as foreigners.

However, whether the city’s nightlife evolves into a global institution or not will still depend heavily on factors such as its reputation, safety and security, quality of music, the people to keep it running and of course, the authorities.

But as for now, it’s back to being one of the most vibrant in Southeast Asia.

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LEISURE/SHOPPING FEATURE

From Mervin Lee

The Rise (or Fall) of Mall-Based Retail in Saigon Retail spaces in Saigon run the gamut from traditional shopping malls to boutique clusters in residential areas to online retailers. What’s happening in the world of commerce in Vietnam and where will we be shopping next?

The history of shopping malls in Ho Chi Minh City is relatively brief. The country re-opened to foreign investment in the early 1990s, a time in history when inhabitants of numerous major cities in Southeast Asia such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok were receiving their glutton-like shares of retail therapy via the introduction of mega malls. Investors eyed every possible inch of land in these metropolitan places, effectively holding citizens hostage by nurturing a mall-based retail culture that has, so it seems, never truly hit Vietnam, even until now.

Malls Take Over Valuable Real Estate in Saigon The first modern ‘mall’ in Ho Chi Minh City, Diamond Plaza, opened its doors in 1999, superseding the antiquated Thuong Xa Tax on Le Loi street, built by French colonialists 136 years ago, as a retail pilgrimage spot for middle class and wealthy Saigonese. The establishment 26 | iamhcmc.com/gazette

was, however, not very much different from its de-facto ancestor: effectively a departmental store with limited choices of food & beverage (F&B) establishments and recreational facilities such as an arcade, bowling alley and a billiards club.

Fast forward to 2013 when Vincom Centre began operations at the junction of Le Thanh Ton and Dong Khoi street. The arrival of a mall and office tower worthy of presence in even bigger cities signified a rather revolutionary change in retail trends in Vietnam: American apparel brands and fast food chains such as DKNY and Carl’s Jr featured as neighbours beside popular Vietnamese F&B chains including Pho 24 and Highlands Coffee.

Between 2013 and 2018, numerous other notable malls such as Saigon Centre, Crescent Mall, SC Vivocity and The Garden Mall began taking over the most valuable plots of land in District 7, District 1 and District 5.

A walk in these malls, however, easily sparks a common sentiment: most retail tenants in these

places seem to be focused on F&B. In fact, this phenomenon has also sparked the birth of an indie-style retail culture in downtown Saigon, where several colonial-era residential buildings such as 42 Nguyen Hue and 26 Ly Tu Trong are now filled with independent cafes and fashion boutiques, many of which cannot afford the sky-high rental costs at larger malls.

Has the Convenience of e-Commerce and Online Shopping Already Beaten Mall-Based Retail to its own Game in Vietnam?

An article in April 2018 by the Financial Times stated that the Vietnamese are one of the largest sources of digital consumers, commanding a solid 35 percent of the total online population in the country, compared to 24 percent in Thailand and a measly 3.2 percent in Singapore. Mr. Tran Ngoc Thai Son, founder of Tiki.vn, began with online sales of hard-to-acquire English-language books in 2010 and has now expanded to a huge variety of products including electronics and promotional flight tickets. He shared that Vietnam

by Mervin Lee

is a “very young country going through a golden population period”. Incidentally, the youth are the most enthusiastic users of mobile devices in Vietnam, potentially the reason e-commerce could be a success here. Amazon is also set to enter the Vietnamese market shortly, competing directly with Lazada, the most popular e-commerce operation in the country. Chinese giant Alibaba owns 83 percent of Lazada, having injected another US$2 billion worth of investment into the company earlier last year.

However, tales of smuggled and pirated goods on e-commerce sites are not unheard of. An article by tuoitre.vn showed examples of household appliances by popular brands such as Panasonic and Philips being sold at less than 30 percent of their recommended retail prices on sites such as Lazada, Sendo and Shoppee. The origins of these items are hardly traceable. Could such problems spur consumers back to traditional shopping?

The Changing Architecture of Retail Zones On the other end of the spectrum, the freedom to operate F&B and retail business from almost

LEISURE/SHOPPING FEATURE

any property has turned entire residential enclaves into non-mainstream, open-spaced shopping complexes. The best example is the Thao Dien ward of Saigon’s District 2, known for its high density of villas, condominiums and international schools which mainly serve the foreigner and expat population in Ho Chi Minh City. Xuan Thuy street and its immediate surroundings at the heart of Thao Dien is now a respectable foodie haven; from an American burger bar, barbecue diner, craft beer bar to Hakata-style pork ramen, Danish sorbets and even a celebrity-level duck balut joint, a VND100,000 note suddenly becomes rather powerless in a country known for its cheap eats.

Huynh Van Banh street in Phu Nhuan district is another apt example. Known to young fashionable locals as a mecca for cheap apparel deals, one would wonder why these flamboyant youths would ever bother to sacrifice commuting convenience and low prices to shop at large and intimidating malls.

One easily finds similarity to Bugis Street in Singapore, effectively a fashion bazaar built on a now-defunct street between two parallel lengths of old colonial buildings. A feasible strategy

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would be for the local authorities to designate certain areas in suburban Saigon for similar purposes. Nonetheless, locals may still remain skeptical unless rental rates and shopping can be kept affordable; it is unavoidable that any ‘night market’ or ‘fashion bazaar’ pop-up in Vietnam would quickly be disregarded when compared with highly successful fashion and food bazaars found in downtown Bangkok— potentially leading locals into yet another selfinduced bout of inferiority complex.

Perhaps it is time for local mall operators to up the game by identifying the causes of discomfort and local aversion to physical shopping. The reliance on motorbikes as the main form of transportation is a key point that should not be ignored. Parking in malls can be intimidating to some locals; extended walking distances and searching for one’s motorbike in a large parking lot is an uncomfortable experience for many.

The purchase of bulky items and groceries is also a challenge: uncomfortable and possibly dangerous.

Thank God for our hardworking ‘shipper’ guys who will stay relevant, regardless of whether malls are here to stay.

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#iAMHCMC

LEISURE/ENVIRONMENT FEATURE

by Brennan Lagman

Vietnam has a Plastic Waste Problem Here’s what’s being done

Reducing plastic waste in Vietnam is a complex challenge with global implications.

See how people in Saigon are joining forces to help solve the problem of plastic.

In a house a few kilometres from Saigon’s city centre, a small group of women gather in a kitchen-turned-impromptu-office. They are part of a growing movement seeking to address the city’s visible plastic problem and lead the way in undertaking the broader Vietnamese plastic waste issue.

A Quest for Answers A month earlier, one of the group’s frontrunners, Madeleine van Hasselt—a change manager and expert in behavioural change management— addressed a crowd of over 100 community members at HCMC’s first Rethink Plastic seminar.

Van Hasselt, alongside Dr. Carel Richter, ConsulGeneral of the Netherlands, famous Australian journalist and director Craig Leeson, Public Health official Ms. Ba Nguyen Thi Thanh and others engaged business owners, corporate representatives, researchers and policymakers to convey a clear message: it’s time everyone does their part to re-think our relationship with plastic.

Since then, Rethink Plastic has evolved from an isolated event. An impressive 40,000 people on social media and 4,000 people in Vietnam have been engaged through direct or indirect action.

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Like most people, Van Hasselt was bothered by plastic, but not enough to do anything about it—until she saw a documentary that was one of the sparks that ignited the Rethink Plastic movement in Vietnam.

Craig Leeson’s remarkably shocking film, A Plastic Ocean, uses storytelling prowess to inform and inspire viewers to turn complacency into urgency about the world’s plastic problem. Van Hasselt was moved to act. She sought out key players at the forefront of the fight, starting with people in her network. As a Dutch international with corporate and political affiliations, she started with the Consulate of the Netherlands. Thanks to the unwavering support of Dr Carel Richter, the Consul-General, Van Hasselt found the support she needed to build a team.

Another key teammate is Dr Richter’s wife, Dr Nika Salvetti, thanks to Dr Salvetti’s background in global development work and Corporate Social Responsibility research and advocacy.

Vietnam’s Plastic Contribution It’s no secret that Vietnam boasts some of Southeast Asia’s most sought-after nature,

food-tourism, and historical and cultural experiences. However, like many places in this region, it doesn’t take long to see plastic... everywhere.From marketplaces to convenience stores and coffee shops to street vendors, almost anything you purchase comes in some form of single-use plastic. After all, plastic packaging is convenient, cheap, sterile and durable. Some even argue that plastic drives development.

But where does it all end up? Take a look in Vietnam’s streetside, waterways and green areas: discarded spoons, straws, poly bags and styrofoam lunch containers abound. But that’s barely the tip of the iceberg. Vietnam churns out the world’s fourth-largest volume of plastic waste and adds significantly to a whopping eight million tonnes of plastic polluting our oceans each year.

A Global Concern The effects of our dependence on plastics are terrifyingly unknown. Each year, we produce more than 300 million tons of plastic, half of which is for single use. A staggering 80% of plastic debris in the ocean comes from land. Once in the sea, it is broken down by the sun, the action of the waves, and contact with sea life.

LEISURE/ENVIRONMENT FEATURE

by Brennan Lagman

The smaller particles become what are called microplastics, or tiny particles that are invisible to the naked eye and attract harmful chemical pollutants that are stored and then released directly into the fatty tissues of the vast majority of sea creatures that mistakenly consume them, including plankton. That means the pollutants have gone through a process of bioaccumulation to infiltrate everything up the food chain to the world’s number one predator: us.

According to a study cited in A Plastic Ocean, 97% of US adults have traces of bisphenol A (BPA), —a toxic, endocrine-interrupting chemical used to make plastic more durable—in their blood. And children aged 6 to 11 have more. The presence of plastic in urine has been linked to childhood obesity, infertility and certain types of cancers. The scary thing is that we are just barely beginning to understand how far-reaching the implications are.

Microplastics in HCMC The country’s most populous urban centre produces over 250,000 tons of plastic refuse annually, and 80% of it ends up recycled or disposed of directly into the environment. What does this mean for the health of this city’s inhabitants?

Dr Emily Strider, a French researcher with the French Institute of Research and Development, and keynote speaker at Rethink Plastic, has joined forces with local scientists at the Asian Water Research Center in Saigon to look for answers.

Dr Strider and her team have surveyed the presence of macro, micro and nano plastics in Saigon’s river, air, soil and fish samples. In the river they found shocking concentrations exceeding 1,000 times those of European rivers. Being the first project of its kind, the ramifications of such numbers are unknown.

plastic economy much faster than they could understand and to adapt the prevailing sociostructural ecosystem to absorb its harmful environmental implications. Most people don’t have the intention to be environmentally harmful, even though that is their impact.

That’s why, alongside legislation, part of the solution should include communal education, and awareness-raising campaigns that target community members, key stakeholders and people at all levels of society to get real people to look around in their own communities.

Leeson adds that sustainable solutions include developing a better infrastructure to process plastic waste effectively, banning single-use plastics completely, directing monetary resources to sustainable companies so the market will follow, and most importantly, educating the younger generation.

It’s not just up to government and locals.

Dr Salvetti says, “To address plastic, we need to change how we think about products—the way they’re sourced, packaged and sold, and where they go after the product expires”. She says that the solutions that companies must put forth can’t be band-aids, they must be willing to make a long-term commitment and evolve their business model at the fundamental level. Since the entire production chain is entangled in supply-chain relationships, it’s about companies working with each other to find solutions.

What’s Being Done?

Rethink Plastic proved that efforts are increasing to address this precarious issue.

It’s easy to get frustrated with the sheer amount of plastic that people consume in Vietnam, and the complacent attitude of most locals. Like many developing countries, plastic has become a vital a part of Vietnam’s economic growth because of its durability and cost-effectiveness.

The director of Vietnam’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Ba Nguyen Thi Thanh, spoke at Rethink and said that all 63 of the republic’s major municipalities are implementing their own strategies to manage solid waste. The cities of Hoi An and Hai Phong hold some of the highest concentrations of plastic waste due to the prevalence of manufacturers who import plastic from around the country and the globe. The national government has recently followed China and placed heavy restrictions on such imports.

Thanks to globalisation and food commodification, the public bought into a

Thanh says city officials in HCMC have deployed three long-term plans to raise

What Needs to Be Done?

#iAMHCMC

awareness and reduce, reuse and recycle solid waste. Developed in 2010 and implemented three years later, the plan seeks to reduce solid waste by an ambitious 60%.

Raising tariffs on single-use plastics or deterring their use through tougher laws and regulations are what many cities and countries around the globe are doing; however, getting the general public to value such initiatives, especially in markets and streetside cafes, is the greatest challenge.

In Vung Tau, a community-led group called Chạy Nhặt, or “picking up”, hosts daily beach cleanups. In Danang, city officials are working closely with locals and businesses to carry out the Say No to Plastic campaign, along with collaborating directly with Asian Development Bank to upgrade the city’s waste management capacities and raise public awareness.

In Saigon, a Facebook Group called Zero Waste Saigon has over 9,000 members. The group—which has since become a small startup for selling zero-waste products—is a platform for HCMC residents to share resources and exchange solutions and ideas.

Rethink Plastic’s seminar also provided a platform for the following local entrepreneurs and businesses to share their initiatives: Wave Vietnam developed a plastic bag that is made from cassava protein. The bags are durable, waterproof, and completely harmless to fish and wildlife, gradually dissolving in water.

Upcycling recycles plastics by turning refuse into durable outdoor materials for parks, gardens and residences.

Reform investigates plastic waste barriers at meso and macro levels, working with key stakeholders to facilitate local solutions.

Impact Vietnam is a sustainability advisory organisation. Its most recent project is the Refill my Bottle Campaign, placing water refill stations at different locations throughout the city. People can use an app to find them, earning points for discounts and prizes. Local companies pay nothing and benefit from the added foot traffic. So far they have acquired 100 stations and counting.

This is an excerpt. For the full article and more stories related to sustainability, go to CityPassGuide.com 29

Số 2, Đường số 9, Khu Dân Cư Tân An Huy, Ấp 5, Phước Kiển, Nhà Bè, TP. Hồ Chí Minh, Việt Nam

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From Our Partners

EDUCATION FEATURE

Practising Restorative Justice at International School Saigon Pearl

ISSP applies the philosophy of “Restorative Justice” at the school as well as sharing techniques with parents looking to improve communication with their children.

Restorative Justice is an approach that was first created with criminal justice reform in mind.

Distinguished professor and criminologist John Braithwaite called restorative justice “...a process where all stakeholders affected by an injustice have an opportunity to discuss how they have been affected by the injustice and to decide what should be done to repair the harm”.

The approach was developed with the knowledge that more often than not, the punitive criminal justice system does more to shame and isolate criminal offenders than it does to rehabilitate them. Restorative justice is a means of helping offenders understand the consequences of their wrongdoings and make true amends in order to become functional members of society.

The “Restorative Approach” to Child-Rearing at ISSP International School Saigon Pearl (ISSP) approaches childhood education with this same 32 | iamhcmc.com/gazette

paradigm, aiming to alter the focus of discipline from punishment to learning. A restorative approach to learning also echoes the school’s key message, which is: “Beyond academic excellence, we develop character”.

What better way to build character than through conversation and accountability? At International School Saigon Pearl, offenders and victims discuss their actions and emotions to land on a mutual agreement for how to make fair reconciliations.

Lester Stephens, Head of School of International School Saigon Pearl has been applying the concept of restorative justice to his role as an educational administrator as well as to his parenting. He understands the struggle that parents have in dealing with conflicts concerning their children as well as the desire to have happier households. He promotes conscious parenting with the awareness that the ways in which parents and educators engage with a child will ultimately determine that child’s sense of self.

Stephens first encountered the principles of restorative justice 15 years ago. He takes the old African proverb stating that “It takes a village to raise a child” quite seriously, and promotes this spirit among the educators at his school.

“You will very rarely hear an angry, loud or yelling voice at our school. What you will hear are children being coached on their behaviour as we employ the restorative approach at our school. I believe it’s our responsibility as adults to coach children and teach them how to behave in a way that has a long-term and sustainable change towards developing good character”.

Community Education and Open Conversation at ISSP One of the key components of ISSP is to share knowledge between both parents and educators at the school. Lester Stephens recently presented a seminar about restorative justice on the ISSP campus in Binh Thanh with the goal of better communicating the principles of restorative justice to the school’s community. Parents and educators alike were given methods to help teach children how to deal with disputes amicably.

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Hiền and Quy, a young couple who had come seeking ideas and tools to improve their child-rearing, spoke about their interest in discovering new paradigms in parenting.

Hiền explained, “Both of our parents were more...traditional”. The words seeped out gently and slowly with almost a wink that contained some sort of implicit meaning.

(Americans are used to this kind of coded language when it comes to talking about parenting, saying things like “My parents were ‘old school’” to connote that they were brought up with corporal punishment as a method of discipline.)

“We’re interested in finding other ways to help our son to behave, some more modern methods”, Hiền said. She sighed with the kind of resignation present in many concerned parents, as if to say, “I’m willing to give anything a try”.

Looking Beyond the “Old School” Approach to Teaching These ideas resonated with audience members at the event even though they may have contrasted with the ways in which they themselves were raised. Hiền, 37, shared her parents’ approach to raising her: “Back then, life was hard so my parents just paid attention to how much food they could give us. They just tried to earn money to buy food. Sending us to school also took effort.

EDUCATION FEATURE

They didn’t spend time talking to us and didn’t have time to play with us. They didn’t say things nicely. I understand the need and the power of positive language, but for their time, they didn’t learn those terms”.

Older models of parenting focus on the establishment of rules and punitive measures when the rules are broken. Punishment is often some kind of administration of pain inflicted by someone with authority or power over the recipient. In Vietnam, it is not uncommon to hear about past generations of parents who had endured extreme poverty ruling over their children with iron hands.

Hien, an American woman of Vietnamese descent, shared a story about her mother’s upbringing. “Every time my mom tells me this story, she cries. She told me that my grandmother would beat her over the head with a broomstick when she was angry. She says she’s lucky to have not gotten some kind of brain damage from that!” When asked whether her mother had any understanding of why her grandmother was so angry with her Hien said, “She had no idea, she was just constantly afraid”.

Although disciplinary measures such as these can result in compliance by the child, they usually lead to feelings of guilt and shame, and ultimately isolation. This feeling of isolation can create a space in which children are more likely to repeat wrongdoings but do so in secret, with the hope that they won’t be caught. The reasons for correct

#iAMHCMC

behaviour become wrapped up in the fear of the punishment rather than the development of good character. For example, the use of school suspensions as a form of punishment might make an immediate improvement in the learning environment but in the long run, it can lead to poor academic achievement and increased juvenile delinquency.

The Obligation to Make Things Right Conversely, the restorative approach seeks to create a sense of obligation rather than shame.

Instead of going straight to punitive measures, teachers seek to reintegrate the students who had misbehaved by discussing the underlying issues of the conflict with all parties involved.

The next step is to work together to address the cause of the behaviour. “The obligation is that they take ownership of the behaviour”, Lester explained. “If they’re being naughty at home, if they made some mistakes, the idea is not that they can carry on and get away with these mistakes. Rather than guilting, shaming and blaming our children, which shuts them down, we work with them to help them feel the obligation to fix the problem by apologising or showing better behaviour”.

The children develop a stronger sense of self as a result as well as better relationships. They become more functional members of the family and society. In the long term, they will be better people because it’s the right thing to do, not because they’re afraid of being punished. (Being “good for goodness’ sake”!) #iAMHCMC caught up with Hiền a couple of weeks after the seminar and asked her if anything had changed in the way she was interacting with her children, and if she had found the information shared at the seminar useful. Hiền said, “I’ve learned a new approach on how to educate my children. I understand that by applying this kind of approach we can improve our relationship with our children by giving them the chance to take responsibility for what they have done. If they create problems we give them a chance to develop the way to fix the problem and make things right. By doing that, they understand what is right and what is wrong. It’s a softer way but I think it’s more useful. The power of words and emotions is strong. Language is very powerful”.

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From Our Partners

EDUCATION FEATURE

ISHCMC Secondary School: Providing More Choices For Learners

Discover why ISHCMC is a top international secondary school in Saigon. Read about how it is offering more choices than ever to secondary students in Vietnam.

As an educational leader and innovator at the top of its field in Vietnam, International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC) has developed an approach centred around offering the maximum amount of choice for its secondary students.

Whether through choosing from an extensive academic curriculum, exploring the variety spaces for study and collaboration, or trying the wide range of sporting and extracurricular options, ISHCMC students can truly discover and determining their own path for learning and growth.

ISHCMC’s ultimate goal is to provide students with the best possible education in Saigon, or anywhere, that offers the perfect start to adult life - preparing them for the academic rigours of university, the real-world demands of modern working life, and equipping them with necessary practical and social skills to be a positive member of a global society. Through its best practice secondary programmes, ISHCMC offers students a top-class learning experience with a rich depth of options, to help guide them in becoming wellrounded and productive individuals.

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More Choices, Mindfulness and Personalised Pathways for ISHCMC Students Emotional well-being is a cornerstone of ISHCMC’s goal to provide the best international school education in Ho Chi Minh City and Vietnam. Understanding that secondary students are entering a new and potentially confusing stage of their lives, the school prioritises holistic education and development. From periods of the day dedicated to mindfulness exercises, and specific areas for quiet reflection, to individually assigned advisors to support their needs – students are constantly given options and encouraged to decide for themselves how to look after their emotional state and enhance their mental capacity.

This attention to mindfulness is just one example of how ISHCMC is not afraid to pursue disruptive educational methods that are supported by modern research. It’s fair to say that traditional education has not typically placed great importance on the individual happiness

of students, rather preferring to impose a more linear path in blanket fashion. However, ISHCMC is determined never to stand still instead choosing to constantly challenge their young learners by looking beyond traditional educational norms.

ISHCMC’s aim to innovate includes understanding that the process of learning is a personal one and should lead to a unique journey for each learner. There are more than 30 IB diploma subjects to choose from, which means that instead of focusing on a standardised expected level of achievement, ISHCMC helps students to reflect on their own abilities and passions. The fact that students follow their own personalised pathways towards self-defined markers for success ensures that learners will graduate having found and cultivated the best and most fulfilled version of themselves.

In addition to this personalised approach, the inclusive nature of ISHCMC’s pioneering international school experience means that no student is left out or behind. For example, instead of selecting only high-achieving students to pursue more advanced programmes, ISHCMC allows any student to choose to follow the most

From Our Partners

rigorous option of the IB Diploma Programme (DP). The belief is that every student should have an equal opportunity to access the very best in education that the school has to offer, as long as they are motivated to do so. This fosters selfbelief and ambition in students during a period in their lives when doubt and reticence can all too easily fester in a non-inclusive atmosphere.

International Quality Secondary Campus in Saigon To achieve such a well-balanced education for its students, ISHCMC’s brand new (completed in January 2018), Secondary Campus in Saigon’s District 2 is “purpose-built”. This means that instead of simply being designed to look good, the school is also planned in a way that feels good to the community of educators and students who spend their days there.

The campus was passionately designed by an educator who focused on promoting creativity, passion and learning excellence – encouraging collaboration alongside independent thinking and decision-making. The campus is also an important foundation of ISHCMC’s International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes - the most established of their kind in the city.

Modern, fully-equipped classrooms flank wide hallways, giving students and teachers plentiful space for educational and social interaction far beyond the limits of traditional, old-fashioned learning methods. Students can decide to meet in the numerous comfortable areas of these hallways,

EDUCATION FEATURE

working together to take responsibility for their own growth, both with and independent of their teachers. The role of an ISHCMC educator is to inspire creativity and guide students toward independent inquiry to select their own path to answers and solutions. Inside the classrooms, interactive equipment and resources, walls and floors for brainstorming ideas, and flexible seating all further add to this atmosphere of positive collaboration and self-determination where learners are constantly challenged, yet also feel happy and at ease.

Leading International School Facilities in HCMC When it comes to facilities, ISHCMC is a forerunner among the leading international schools in Ho Chi Minh City. Within its Secondary campus, the school boasts outstanding facilities in the spheres of sports, arts & culture, design & technology, and health & wellbeing.

This provides an enormous amount of choice for students to follow their academic and extracurricular passions.

To promote athletic participation, the campus includes an 8-lane 25 metre swimming pool, rooftop football pitch with realistic artificial grass, NBA-sized basketball court (also suitable for other indoor sports), outdoor tennis courts, and a fitness centre where students can stay healthy and blow off steam anytime outside of their learning schedules.

In relation to any of the leading international secondary schools in HCMC, the number of sporting options for students is second to none.

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Since encouraging creativity is such a significant part of ISHCMC’s secondary school offering, it makes sense that performing and creative arts are greatly supported by facilities that include: a 350-seat theatre for professionalstandard productions, performance rehearsal areas, multiple music practice rooms, and even professionally equipped music recording suites.

All of this means that students have a variety of creative outlets to choose from to express themselves and hone new talents.

ISHCMC’s Learning Journey - Preparing for University The learning facilities at ISHCMC are also top class – from design technology labs with 3D printers, and decked out science labs, to an excellent media centre, library, and university-style lecture areas to help the transition into higher education. This last example points further towards ISHCMC having the best secondary IB programmes in Ho Chi Minh City, as they provide a university-like experience - encouraging independent thinking and responsibility for their own choices, so that students progress to university feeling fully prepared and ready to hit the ground running.

Positioned as the top international secondary school in Saigon and Vietnam, ISHCMC is able to offer a fantastically well-rounded experience to its secondary students, as it prioritises personal development and the process of learning over purely academic outcomes. However, students are still able to achieve a high level of academic success; since there is such a wide range of curriculum options available at ISHCMC, learners can select subjects that are best suited to their passions and abilities.

So, ISHCMC students attain graduation results that are competitive on the world stage - shown by graduates from their IB Diploma Programme (DP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP) consistently scoring above international averages. In particular, ISHCMC IB DP graduate students have a 100% acceptance rate into universities around the world, including top institutions in the US, UK, Australia, Korea, and more. This falls perfectly in line with one of ISHCMC’s defining aims: to provide not only Vietnam’s best education and preparation for adult life, but to exceed the range of opportunities comparable to living anywhere in the world.

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#iAMHCMC

EDUCATION FEATURE

by Angee D

The Ultimate Guide to Internation Looking for an international school for your child but overwhelmed by all the choices? We’ve broken it down into everything you need to know but are too busy to research in our guide to International Schools in Saigon.

When you consider that many children as young as four years old will spend the majority of their week at school, it highlights the importance of finding a school that offers an environment that is safe, fun, effective and affordable for your budget.

We’ve done our best to highlight the basic facts of each school to help you narrow down your search so you know that you are choosing the best possible option for your little learners. per year Tuition per year Age Ranges Tuition for Primary for secondary Taught School school

Primary Language(s) Taught

Secondary Languages Offered

461,700,000 - 527,000,000

English

French, Mandarin

British National Curriculum, Cambridge, IGCSE, AS/A levels

383,000,000 - 413,700,000

455,100,000 - 583,100,000

English

Mandarin, French

AERO, American, AP, IB

4Y to 18Y+

180,260,000 - 245,500,000

325,270,000 - 392,000,000

English, Vietnamese

Mandarin, Spanish, Latin

D. 2

18M to 18Y+

92,000,000 - 456,000,000

496,000,000 - 604,000,000

English

Chinese, Korean, French

California State Common Core IB, University of Cambridge Secondary Programme

Boules et Billes

D. 2; Binh Thanh D.

6M to 11Y

111,000,000 - 128,000,000

Not Applicable

French

English, Vietnamese

British Vietnamese International School Ho Chi Minh City

Binh Chanh D.

2Y to 18Y+

189,500,000 - 350,200,000

403,600,000 - 458,200,000

English, Vietnamese

The Canadian International School

D. 7

4Y to 18Y+

263,700,000 - 410,500,000

448,300,000 - 621,900,000

English, Vietnamese

Vietnamese, French, Korean

General Curriculum of Ontario, IB

Deutsche Schule - International German School Ho Chi Minh City

D. 2

18M to 18Y+

230,000,000 - 305,000,000

366,000,000 - 418,000,000

German

French, English, Vietnamese

Curriculae for the Federal State of Thuringia, MOET

Eton House International Pre-School

D. 2

18M to 6Y

Unpublished

Not Applicable

English

English, Vietnamese, Reggio Emilia & Stem German, French, Inspired Spanish

European International School Ho Chi Minh City

D. 2

2Y to 18Y+

152,532,000 - 426,700,000

466,590,000 - 562,916,000

English

Vietnamese

International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC)

D. 2

2Y to 18Y+

84,942,000 - 226,197,000

589,600,000 - 703,400,000

English

Korean, Vietnamese, French, Spanish, IB Mandarin

International School Saigon Pearl Elementary School (ISSP)

Binh Thanh D.

18M to 11Y

149,600,000 - 408,500,000

Not Applicable

English

Mandarin, Vietnamese

American

Kinder Academy

D. 2

1Y to 6Y

159,336,000

Not Applicable

English

Vietnamese

Reggio Emilia & Stem Inspired

Lycée Français International Marguerite Duras

D. 9

3Y to 18Y+

111,120,000 - 169,992,000

120,620,000 - 202,951,000

French

Vietnamese, Spanish, Chinese, English, Latin

Standard of French National Education

Smart Kids

D. 2

18M to 6Y

192,900,000 -338,400,000

Not applicable

English

Vietnamese

Reggio Emilia/North American enquiry-based program

2Y to 18Y+

127,792,000 - 173,412,000

172,900,000 - 386,815,000

School

District

The ABC International School

Binh Chanh D.

2Y to 18Y+

137,100,000 - 409,700,000

American International School

Nha Be D.

4Y to 18Y+

APU International School

D. 11

Australian International School

1, 2, 3, 7, 10, Vietnam Australian D. Phu Nhuan D., International School Go Vap D. 36 | iamhcmc.com/gazette

English, Vietnamese

Curriculum

French Ministry of National Education National Curriculum of England, MOET

IB

MOET, CAP, CEP

by Angee D

#iAMHCMC

EDUCATION FEATURE

nal Schools in Saigon Please note that prices are quoted in VND and represent the price of a one-time annual tuition payment. If you pay in several installments the prices can be up to 20 percent more.

Fees for application, registration, uniforms, transportation, meal plans, books, activities, etc., have not been included. Please see the school’s website for more detailed info specific to your family’s needs.

This is an excerpt. For the full guide + reviews of each school go to CityPassGuide.com

Diploma(s) Offered

Extracurricular Activities Offered

ECOLE BOULE & BILLES BINH THANH 183A Dien Bien Phu St., Binh Thanh D., HCMC (028) 35 14 70 41 091 909 89 17 (Thierry Fernandez)

ECOLE BOULE & BILLES THAO DIEN 38 street 10, Thao Dien ward, D2, HCMC (028) 37 44 26 40 090 613 70 51 (Yen Thu Fernandez)

binhthanh@bouleetbilles.net

www.bouleetbilles.net

thaodien@bouleetbilles.net

Special Features

International Level Diploma Program

Origami, games, martial arts, dance, robotics, balloon twisting, art

Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award

American HS Diploma, IB Diploma Programme

40+ Afterschool activities

Encore Program for visual and performing arts

International Level Diploma Program

English, music, charity, soccer, badminton, science, photography

IB Diploma Programme

English Language, sports, music, cultural programs

Dual Enrolment Program with UMKC Internationally renowned mentors and inventors offer a series of lectures through the school year.

Not Applicable

Dance, swimming, Vovinam, music, themed cultural programs

Themed activities, sports and other classes offered during school vacation periods.

A Levels

100 clubs including sports, fishing, arts

Fully bilingual, internationally licensed programme

Ontario Secondary School Diploma, IB Diploma Programme

Sports, games, arts, coding, photography, volunteering

Bilingual programme

IB Mixed-Language diploma

pottery, book binding, cooking, choir, self defense, yoga, drums

Domestic excursions

Not Applicable

Swimming, gardening, Arts and Crafts, intellectual games

Learning through play to build confidence and early learning

IB Diploma Programme

80+ afterschool programs, including Model United Nations, arts, sports, lanugage, robotics

Week without Walls allows students to practice real world applications of learning

Not Applicable

sports, dance, martial arts, music, graffitti, claymation, cooking

Global Issues Network affiliation

IB Diploma Programme

Swimming, cooking, karate, student leadership, choir, basketball and dance

Interactive iPad program, pool, indoor soft play gym, outdoor sports field, dance studio, visual arts studio, music room

Not Applicable

Diverse learning activities such as art, social, math and science

Strong emphasis on STEM learning tools

National Diploma Brevet and Baccalaureat

Football, Rugby, Cultural courses, Cinema club

Offers a British International Stream for bilingual and bicultural education

Not Applicable

Arts and crafts, dance, music, sports, intellectual games, science

Learning through play to build confidence and early learning

MOET, A Levels

Arts and crafts, dance, music, sports, intellectual games, science

9 campuses servicing more than 7,200 students

Come & Visit one of our classes in Thao Dien, D2, HCMC call for an appointment

0903 957 316 Ms Joke (Yoko) yoko@smartkidsinfo.com - www.smartkidsinfo.com

Reggio Emilia & STEM inspired curriculum KINDER ACADEMY PRESCHOOL

24/2 TRAN NGOC DIEN, THAO DIEN, D.2, HCMC | +84 938780076| WWW.KINDERACADEMY.EDU.VN | EMAIL: INFO@KINDERACADEMY.EDU.VN

Among English publications in Vietnam, we are the only one with both a great reach in print and online, while being the most cost efficient.

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From Our Partners

EDUCATION FEATURE

ABC International School’s New Secondary Campus in HCMC ABC International School has opened a new campus for secondary school students, continuing a tradition of providing a world-class education to students in Saigon.

The ABC International School (ABCIS), an award-winning provider of education for early years, primary and secondary school students since 1995, has created a new campus for secondary school learners. The brand new campus in Nha Be is equipped with impressive new facilities aimed at preparing students for their futures as learners in overseas universities. ABCIS practices an ethos which drives the school to develop well-rounded, open-minded, problemsolving students that excel in communicating, and possess strong skills for life. Their programs provide a plethora of leadership opportunities, preparing students to become successful individuals in whichever fields they put their minds into entering. ABCIS’ efforts in creating generation after generation of successful students have earned them the distinction of having one of the highest number of Cambridge Learner Awards in Vietnam over the last few years.

The ABC International School’s Top of the Line Facilities The facilities at the new ABCIS campus are topnotch. They include a 4G football pitch, a 400 seat theatre, a 25-metre swimming pool, a huge indoor gymnasium, multiple full-sized music rooms and practice rooms, two art workshops, as well as a gym with weights and fitness machines.

The new campus was designed with ABCIS’ secondary school students in mind. Before the new campus was built, secondary school students shared their campus and facilities with 38 | iamhcmc.com/gazette

primary aged students, whereas the new campus has an atmosphere that feels more mature as well as more suitable for students who have their sights on higher education and serious academic pursuits.

The History of ABCIS in Ho Chi Minh City The ABC International School was founded in 1995 with an enrollment of just 12 students.

At the time there was a dearth of international education geared towards children of foreign investors, expats and Vietnamese nationals.

Over the years, enrollment has continually increased as programs developed and worldclass, specialised teachers were increasingly recruited from overseas.

ABCIS’ mission is “To provide an excellent teaching and learning environment for the development of our students and staff so that all may realise their full potential, and be able to constantly strive for higher goals and ideals. To ensure our students will benefit not only from being in Vietnam but also from the opportunity of learning alongside adults

and students from many parts of the world, thereby facilitating the total development of each child, within an ever-changing global community.”

ABCIS Teaches Ho Chi Minh City Students to Think Differently ABCIS realises that many schools in Vietnam have been very successful in getting students to acquire new information in a rote fashion, it is the role of an outstanding school to teach students how to be good learners, and how to use critical and creative thinking for problemsolving; these are the skills employers are calling out for. Students at ABCIS are prepared to enter universities across the world to pursue degrees in the sciences, humanities and arts, but more importantly, they are brought up in a community of experienced, highly qualified educators all with a deep investment in seeing each student reach his or her potential. The new campus will undoubtedly be instrumental in propelling many generations of ABCIS students onto the global stage.

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#iAMHCMC

by Angee D

HEALTH FEATURE

Guide to Giving Birth in Saigon Are you pregnant and worried about what to expect when giving birth in Saigon? Let #iAMHCMC relieve your worries with our Guide to Giving Birth in Saigon.

As a pregnant woman away from your home country, anxieties about all the decisions to be made before, during and after delivery are compounded.

I talked to a few moms and a birthing coach, and first off, let me assure you, there is a lot less to worry about than you might think. Everyone assured me that hospitals in Saigon are quite comparable to the care you would receive in any Western country. As with most things in Vietnam, though, there are a few things to be aware of.

Prenatal Care Most people recommend FV Hospital or Hanh Phuc. Both offer birthing classes. For a more 40 | iamhcmc.com/gazette

holistic approach, try a class at CMI or with Lactation Counselor and Birth Doula, Nellie Pilisi (nelliepilisi@yahoo.com). She is also available for home visits, hospital advocacy and general support.

place, especially if you want to have a natural, medication-free experience. Stephanie Cantrell, who has given birth to two babies in the last two years in Saigon, has a wonderful blog about giving birth and raising children here (howgrow.wordpress.com).

Birth Plans

If you’ve spent any amount of time in Saigon, you know it can be difficult for people to diverge from the status quo. As Stephanie said, “I think it’s important to have a pushy partner as well as an agreed on and signed off birth plan, if you’re going to really get what you want without constant hassle”.

She suggests being specific about what you want, but also keeping it short, no more than one page, so that staff and doctors can take a quick glance.

Most of the moms I spoke to highly recommended that you have a birth plan in

Get your doctor to sign off on it a few weeks before your due date. Remember to keep copies of it during labour and delivery as a reference for

Some yoga studios in Saigon offer prenatal and postnatal classes. Sivananda Yoga in D1, Mandala Wellness and Body Shape in D2, Yoga Sculpt and Shape in D3, and Yoga Joy Saigon in D7 offer prenatal yoga. Additionally, birthing classes, infant first aid and mommy meet-ups are held at Mandala Wellness.

by Angee D

HEALTH FEATURE

#iAMHCMC

staff. Finally, have a plan B in case you need to have an emergency procedure or an issue arises with your new baby.

Labour and Delivery FV Hospital has more English-speaking nurses but many moms say they still had a wonderful experience at Hanh Phuc. You will likely only see the doctor for the final moments of labour.

During most of the time, you will be cared for by midwives.

Your birth plan can list many options for delivery including pain medication; how you want to push; being free to eat, drink and walk around; and scheduled C-section.

Water birth seems to be the only option that is still not available here. Just remember to have that birth plan handy to remind staff of your wishes.

In the unfortunate event that issues arise, both facilities are also well-equipped to take care of you and baby. Premature births are handled onsite as well.

Post Partum The midwives in both hospitals are knowledgeable about breastfeeding and aftercare and are available at all hours. In most cases, your baby will stay in your room. For an additional fee, your partner will be provided a cot to sleep on. Unlike most Western countries, moms can expect to stay in the hospital for at least three days for a natural birth and up to five days for birth by caesarean.

Unless there is an issue, there is no real aftercare once you leave the hospital. However, you can arrange for a midwife or doula to visit you.

Birth Certificate This likely will be the most stressful part. As with dealing with any government agency here, the process will be lengthy and full of paperwork. Laws change quickly and without warning, so don’t be surprised if you encounter some confusion.

To make it a bit easier, start the process before the birth. Prepare certified copies of your residency card and whole passports; a legalised, translated and certified copy of your marriage certificate; and a copy of your landlord registration book. After the birth, you will receive a certified copy of the hospital delivery records. Make several certified copies of this, as you may need these for the passport application and visas. Next, you’ll need an affidavit of nationality from your consulate or embassy, have this legalised, translated and certified.

Take all of your original and copied documents as well as an application to the Local People’s Committee in your residing district. It is helpful to have a Vietnamese speaking friend here, as you may need to refill forms or ask questions.

If everything is in order, you will be able to pick up your baby’s birth certificate in a few days. Finally, get the birth certificate legalised, then have it translated into your home country’s language, legalised and certified. This whole process can take anywhere from two weeks to six months, so do not plan any travel for while.

For more detailed information, check the Saigon International Families Facebook group.

The bottom line: You can do this! Be prepared, do your research, and don’t be afraid to make your wishes known. You and your baby will receive proper medical care. Dealing with the various government offices may be frustrating, but you can get through that, too.

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#iAMHCMC

by R.E.H.

BUSINESS FEATURE

The Science of Networks; How Connectivism is Changing Our Interactions

Ever wonder what impact your social networks are having on your life? Log into LinkedIn and learn how the theory of “Connectivism” is changing the way your workplace functions.

Almost everything these days revolves around our gadgets and, more specifically, the networking apps that help us get through the simplest of daily tasks as well as social or professional situations.

This is evident everywhere from catching up over social media with friends or e-meeting potential business contacts to finding a personal assistant through a gig economy app or even getting a virtual doctor’s check-up!

Everything is networked. Everything is connected. This newfound sense of being connected has led the academic world into a tailspin as social scientists and psychologists try to understand the implications. While there are many different theories that explain individual elements of the impact of digitalisation and how networking has changed the way that modern society functions, none are quite so poignant as the emerging study of ‘Connectivism’.

42 | iamhcmc.com/gazette

What is Connectivism and How Does it Affect the Workplace?

Connectivism is rooted in the belief that everything belongs to a network. Networks are the basis for biological life—the integration of cells to form a living object.

Networks are the basis for social life— the integration of relationships to form a community. Networks are the basis for technology: nodes connect to hubs to create complex digital applications.

Connectivism emphasises that the capacity to learn through these networks and foster them are a core life skill. Essentially, it is through networks that all knowledge is acquired and distributed.

The originator of the connectivism theory, George Siemens, wrote in his article “Connectivism: A Learning Theory for the Digital Age” that “Connectivism also addresses the challenges that many corporations face in knowledge management activities. Knowledge that resides in a database needs to be connected with the right people in the right context in order to be classified as learning”.

Connectivism also highlights the surprising idea that learning to maintain and develop connections within networks is actually more important than acquiring the knowledge itself.

One example of this is recent research published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research publications, which has found that being connected to a large social network within an organisation is more influential than being knowledgeable or holding an important title.

by R.E.H.

Social media platforms such as Twitter and LinkedIn are great examples of connectivism at work in the business sector. These networking sites demonstrate that the more followers you have, the more influence you have to disseminate information. LinkedIn has recently capitalised on this accessible connectivity by creating an invite-only LinkedIn Influencer program.

According to the Nordic media monitoring company, Meltwater.com, the program is made up of “… a global collective of 500+ of the world’s foremost thinkers, leaders, and innovators”.

While LinkedIn Influencers are primarily made up of public figures, social media influence is present even on a smaller scale across the internet. The research report, “Enabling Community Through Social Media”, published

by JMIR Publications, comes to the conclusion that “Prominence in the network appears to be related to familiarity with individuals, for example, more active participants receive more attention in terms of mentions and retweets”.

This opens the possibility for employees who may have been confined to the ‘lower ranks’ of an organisational hierarchy, to gain an audience as large as the managing board, dependent on their ‘connectivism’ skills to entice followers.

In this way connectivism is already organically encroaching into organisations large and small.

Traditional hierarchies, which place power at the top level of management, are being replaced with models that allow for greater levels of power distribution. Models that promote

BUSINESS FEATURE

feedback networks in which reflexive learning and decision-making give a voice to employees at all levels of the organisation are starting to be seen as the future in office culture.

Workplaces are necessarily moving away from “Do as I say” to “What do you think?”, promoting employee engagement. This demonstrates that connectivism is helping companies to fully value each member of the team, while equally supporting each member to become more invested in the company’s goals.

Both results are achieved in companies that perform as an integrated network, rather than a top-down pyramid.

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education systems towards COOC, which can be used successfully in “education environments with developing infrastructure like Vietnam”.

The digitalisation of the workplace has created an increasing demand for employees who are flexible, agile, resilient and able to make connections—to learn as the job requires. The recommendation to promote skills that make us effective lifelong learners, which started as a whisper, has turned into an urgent cry.

Connectivism, and understanding its role in Vietnam, is perhaps most important when applied in training the next generation.

It is no longer enough to train youth in industryspecific knowledge. Now it is necessary to train them to know how to make connections.

Future leaders need to know how to make connections between information pools in order to create, innovate and make refined decisions. They need to be able to connect to networks in order to become influencers, visionaries and leaders. Connections are what will allow them to continue to be a part of our evolving human story.

Corporate Connective Open Online Courses (COOC) should be used to make the future Vietnamese workforce more connected, according to Nguyen Manh Hung’s article “Using Ideas from Connectivism for Designing New Learning Models in Vietnam”, published in The International Journal of Information and Education Technology, Vol. 4. A COOC is basically a networked way of learning that allows corporations to offer targeted online training courses for future employees or clients.

A giant in the research of networks, Dr Barabasi, said, “Each of us is part of a large cluster, the worldwide social net, from which no one is left out. We do not know everybody on this globe, but it is guaranteed that there is a path between any two of us in this web of people. Likewise, there is a path between any two neurons in our brains, between any two companies in the world, between any two chemicals in our body. Nothing is excluded from this highly interconnected web of life.”

Nguyen expresses the need for Vietnam to move away from traditional learning methods in the

Like this article? Read more about Business and Networking on CityPassGuide.com.

How Does Connectivism Relate to Vietnam?

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BUSINESS FEATURE

by Victor Burrill

Increase your effectiveness by managing your time

Time management is a major factor in being effective. #iAMHCMC’s Business correspondent, Victor Burrill, shows us how time management can change your game and your career in Vietnam.

“Effectiveness is a habit and that you can improve through practice” - Peter F. Drucker Why does it seem that some people are able to get more out of their day? Believe it or not, they have learnt the skill of how to properly manage their time. You too can learn this.

Goal Setting

success. To make sure your goals are clear and reachable each one should be SMART: • Specific (clear and concise).

• Measurable (the ability to track your progress).

• Achievable (challenging yet attainable).

• Relevant (set goals that are relevant to your overall plan).

• Time-bound (goals should have a finish time attached).

The Power of Focus After getting to know my clients, one of the first things I ask them is, “Where do you want to be?” One way I ask this is, “What would be different, say, in two years’ time?”

Setting goals, or knowing which direction you are going is fundamental in focusing your efforts, using your time and resources productively, and increasing your chances of 44 | iamhcmc.com/gazette

Tim Cook, now the CEO of Apple, said, “We say no to great ideas in order to keep the amount of things we focus on very small in number so that we can put enormous energy behind the ones we do choose”. You too can achieve amazing results by eliminating unimportant opportunities.

Statistics show that those who have more than four goals are likely to achieve only one or two of them. If you have over 11 goals, you are unlikely to reach any.

Learning to say “no” is a skill many successful people have mastered. Billionaire Warren Buffett learned long ago that his most valuable resource is his time: “The difference between successful people and really successful people is that really successful people say no to almost everything”.

Executive coaching guru, Dr. Marshal Goldsmith, says that one of the greatest lessons Peter Drucker taught him is:

“We do not spend enough time teaching leaders what to stop. Half of the leaders I have met don’t need to learn what to do. They need to learn what to stop”.

by Victor Burrill

As a coach, I have found that much of my work is helping leaders work out what to stop doing in order to focus on their most important priorities.

You may start by looking at your to-do-list every day and try to get down five tasks you need to accomplish. You can probably eliminate most of the items on your list.

Learning How You Spend Time Helps You Save Time Where does your time actually go? You may believe that you only spend 30 minutes on emails, but in reality that might be eating up an hour of your day. Keep track of your time by downloading an app like RescueTime, Toggl or Google Calendar to track things.

Batching similar tasks together such as emails and phone calls: effective managers schedule a specific time to handle these tasks such as late morning and towards the end of the day.

I also plan my week to avoid wasting time waiting. For example, whilst waiting I’ll read an inspirational book, listen to a podcast, or make those important calls.

Delegation and outsourcing can get a bit difficult for some but are real time-savers so you can spend more time on more important tasks. Either hand over responsibilities to team members who are qualified, or hire an experienced freelancer.

BUSINESS FEATURE

Leaving a buffer time can help performance.

Jumping immediately from one task or meeting to the next may seem like a good use of your time, but it actually has the opposite effect.

The human brain can only focus for about 90 minutes at a time. Without a break it’s more difficult to stay focused and motivated.

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accomplishment to get through the rest of the day.

Be Energised and Inspired

The Power of Planning A lot of successful leaders spend time thinking about how they will achieve their priorities, keep focused on their goals as well as providing the opportunity to build contingencies for a possible crisis.

One of the worst things you can do is wake up without a plan for the day. Before leaving for work, spend 15 minutes composing a list of your most important items. Write down three or four matters that need to be addressed today and work on those when you’re most productive.

Spend your mornings on your most important tasks (MITs). Mark Twain once said, “If it’s your job to eat a frog, it’s best to do it first thing in the morning. And If it’s your job to eat two frogs, it’s best to eat the biggest one first”. The point that Twain was making was that you should take care of your biggest and most challenging tasks in the morning.

You usually have the most amount of energy then. Also, you can use that feeling of

Successful leaders exercise religiously. Even a short burst of fun cardio activity works wonders, especially in the morning. This is because exercise releases endorphins, serotonin and other happy chemicals in your brain.

According to renowned psychologist Shawn Achor the reason why exercise is so key to your morning routine is that it literally trains your brain to believe “my behavior matters”, which then carries (positively) into other activities throughout the day.

If you’re reading this article, it’s obvious you want to discover some useful time management skills. The solution may be as simple as not sleeping-in until 6:30am.

Wake up an hour earlier. Personally, I find 5:15am to be the most productive time of the day since it gives me time to exercise, plan-out my day, go through my emails, and even work on side projects without being disturbed. *Victor Burrill is an internationally certified coach, leadership trainer and is Chairman of the Business Executive Network Vietnam.

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#iAMHCMC

REAL ESTATE FEATURE

by Molly Headley

Behind the Flood; How Greener City Planning Can Unblock HCMC Waterways forced to redesign itself to survive. This is where forward thinking Danish design really began, Ho Chi Minh City-based, Danish architect and interior designer Fong-Chan Paw Zeuthen told #iAMHCMC. Zeuthen is founder and owner of KAZE interior design studio, which has been responsible for landmark commercial projects, luxury residential builds and hotels throughout Vietnam and Cambodia. Danish design is known for its iconic style and sustainability as well as its focus on the same demand for “sky, space and trees” that inspired Le Corbusier.

Now, while everyone (animal or human) can attest to the fact that we would all like a lot more of the above list, are they really necessary in a city where space is at a premium? When it comes to flood prevention, the answer according to experts is a resounding yes.

Increased flooding has become part of Ho Chi Minh City’s new normal because of overtaxed drainage systems and other issues. Can sustainable development solutions and better city planning stem the overflow?

We’ve all seen the images online of people attempting to ride their scooters through city streets flooded in waist-deep water, drenched, miserable but determined. In some ways, the images seem to celebrate the resilience of Vietnam’s city dwellers but a look at what lies beneath those flood waters shows another tale of rising tides, stalled projects and a sharp cry for better foresight.

HCMC seen from above reveals lego-like clusters of low-rise retail and residential buildings punctuated by iron and glass mega-stars like the Landmark 81, Bitexco Financial Tower and Vietcombank tower.

Small patches of green colour the otherwise very concrete landscape. The developments are separated by the Saigon River, which barges through the centre of it all like a pulsing vein, bringing life to the city by way 46 | iamhcmc.com/gazette

of commerce as well as increasing the risk of flooding during the rainy season.

Le Corbusier, the iconic 1930s Swiss-French architect, urban designer, artist and pioneer of modern architecture, once wrote that “The materials of city planning are: sky, space, trees, steel and cement; in that order and that hierarchy”.

Rather than allowing cities to develop in the typical hodge-podge development style of the past, Le Corbusier believed that urban areas could be planned to be organised, efficient and tranquil. Fast forward to 2018, almost a century later and city planning is still a hot topic worldwide, though some cities are just better at it than others, often out of necessity.

The Danish city of Copenhagen, which nearly burned to the ground twice in the 1700s, was

Planning Vs. Development According to Effects of Urban Development on Floods a survey by the US Geological Survey, one solution for alleviating flooding is to design around it. Successful city planning means placing green spaces that can handle excess water in flood-prone zones rather than choosing those areas for large-scale developments.

Impermeable surfaces (such as concrete roads) combined with drainage systems that lack the capacity to handle the increased population and development in Ho Chi Minh City have contributed to an increase in flooding, property damage and even loss of life. The most recent storm, a typhoon nicknamed Usagi, which hit HCMC this last November, caused widespread flooding throughout the city and one death.

In addition, Vietnam was ranked 6th globally on the 2018 Climate Risk Index list compiled annually by German NGO Germanwatch due to its high number of climate related losses.

Weather calamities are inevitable but climate and development experts reveal that the effects

REAL ESTATE FEATURE

by Molly Headley

of flooding on urban areas are something that is largely within our control.

Where Does the Water Go When the Buildings Go Up? “There is a connection between the height of a building and how far you have to dig down to build the foundation, especially when you build on a swamp”, Zeuthen explained to #iAMHCMC. “To build up we literally have to remove the soil and force large concrete masses into the earth. The underground water still has to find another passage, so it goes up, sideways, anywhere it can. When it rains this can lead to ‘Venice-style’ rivers where city streets should be”.

New builds in a large city may increase flooding by overtaxing the drainage systems, she continued. Soil extraction can also cause the earth to sink, which may have an effect on flooding in the future. Development projects in any metropolis should consider these factors from the outset, Zeuthen concluded.

Zeuthen is not the only one concerned.

According to the ScienceDirect article ScenarioBased Approach to Assess Ho Chi Minh City’s Urban Development Strategies Against the Impact of Climate Change, “The influence of planned urban developments to the year 2025 on future flood risk is seen to be significantly greater than that of projected sea-level rise to the year 2100”.

In short, climate change is part of the bigger picture but the speed with which major developments are going up has had an direct effect on flooding in HCMC. In 2016, Vietnam in conjunction with the World Bank began a flood prevention project near HCMC that was projected to cost more than USD$400 million to deal with overflow but the project was halted because of site clearance problems.

However, there is still hope for positive progress.

The ADB (Asian Development Bank) has said it is willing to invest in sewage and drainage systems in Ho Chi Minh City. In addition, a collaboration between Royal HaskoningDHV, an engineering consulting firm headquartered in the Netherlands, and Deltares, an independent institute for applied research in the field of water, subsurface and infrastructure, have been brought in to create a comprehensive plan. In the meantime, the density of concrete buildings continues to rise, leaving no space under or above ground for water to escape and sustainable development projects are still a minority in HCMC’s urban sprawl.

Greener Solutions for Dryer Futures Melissa Merryweather, Director of Green Consult Asia the first company based in Vietnam to offer professional consulting services for sustainable development, told #iAMHCMC that “Development was very slow for a long time except at the low-cost, or single-family homes end, but the last 10 years have been extraordinary.

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The problem is that you can’t build that quickly and still build carefully and the macro-planning of roads, transportation, parking, and public spaces has to be incredibly well thought out.

Public spaces and infrastructure have not been prioritised [in HCMC]”.

During the property boom that began in HCMC after Vietnam entered the WTO in 2007, developers launched their projects on whatever land was available without having much interference from urban planning committees. Some of these new developments have put HCMC on the international map. The Landmark 81 project, for example, is a source of pride for Vietnam as the 14th tallest building in the world. However, fighting floods as well as creating a city that is livable, sustainable and economically viable requires strategy that goes beyond how high the city can build. Especially, when that city has a population of 8.5 million and housing is in high demand.

“There is public interest in all the things that sustainability is about: in healthy living, in a cleaner environment, in controlling climate change. But the developers just see profit margins so far”, Merryweather said. “However, there is some competition at the top to have a green certification and there are a few developers who want to bring that to people in HCMC”.

Green Consult and KAZE Interior Design Studio can work with clients to integrate sustainable solutions in the development and design process to reduce environmental impact from construction. It is also possible for HCMC’s urban planners to inspire themselves by green initiatives that have worked in other cities, such as rooftops and parking lots designed to store water in the case of excess rain-flow and permeable pavements. In the US neighborhood of Seattle, Washington, stormwater runoff was reduced by 98 percent simply by making the street narrower and placing vegetated swales along the sides of the road. The swales, plant filled canals, are multipurpose; they collect rainwater runoff as well as improving the visual design, air quality and water quality of the city.

Long-term solutions are still in the planning stages but the question remains - Will HCMC be able to rise to the challenge of creating a more livable city out of necessity? Or will it continue to sink underwater with every passing storm?

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#iAMHCMC

REAL ESTATE FEATURE

by CBRE

Investors to Shape the Future of Asia Pacific Flexible Space

Flexible real estate spaces such as coworking offices are expanding across Asia Pacific.

What does that mean for the Ho Chi Minh City real estate and investor market?

Flexible space is expanding rapidly across Asia Pacific due to increasing occupier requirements for flexible working environments. However, to sustain this trend, future flexible spaces will increasingly require a high level of investor participation to meet evolving demands regionally, says CBRE Asia Pacific.

According to CBRE’s report, “Exploiting the Agile Revolution: Prospects for Landlords and Investors”, advances in technology, a more mobile workforce and unpredictable economic growth are reshaping the business environment for occupiers. This has prompted investors to treat agile-based space as a long-term investment class within real estate portfolios.

“Investors in Asia Pacific real estate are taking a long-term view of flexible space. Investors are approaching occupier market shifts more strategically and rebalancing their portfolios to reflect a higher demand for agile space across 48 | iamhcmc.com/gazette

Coworking and Flexibles Spaces in Asia are at an AllTime High

the region,” said Steve Swerdlow, CEO of Asia Pacific, CBRE.

But Just What is Flexible Space?

Flexible space refers to the provision of office space that solves flexible, transient or shortterm space requirements. It can range from traditional serviced offices to relatively newer, agile formats, such as turnkey locations. A turnkey location is defined as a project that is built so that it can be sold to buyers as a completed project. The owner must only “turn the key” to enter his/her new space with no construction or remodelling to be done.

Flex spaces also include coworking locations, which are undoubtedly registering the strongest growth and attracting the most interest from occupiers.

Flexible space operators have grown rapidly in recent years, reaching a total footprint of just under 40 million sq. ft. in 14 major Asia Pacific cities according to tracking by CBRE. Growth between 2013-2017 stood at more than 50 percent year-on-year.

With international players entering the region in 2016 and local operators expanding rapidly, the pace of overall growth has accelerated, reaching 57 percent year-on-year in 2017. China and India are the fastest growing markets for agile-based space, while mature markets like Australia, Hong Kong, Japan and Singapore host a smaller volume of agile space due to the lack of vacant office supply.

Although the flexible space model continues to evolve, CBRE Research believes that the fundamental shift found in five macro trends will continue to underpin its solid growth.

REAL ESTATE FEATURE

by CBRE

Workplace technology, liquid workforces (project-based, contractor-staffed teams), workplace evolution, cost optimisation and new accounting rules will force both investors and occupiers to rethink corporate real estate strategies for the foreseeable future.

Longer term, the more efficient use of space could lead to a reduction of space per capita. CBRE’s recent Tech Survey indicated that around 50 percent of occupiers expect to require less office space in five years while seeking higher quality space capable of encouraging collaboration, innovation and employee wellbeing.

Considerations for Flexible Space and Coworking Space Investors According to CBRE Research, other major considerations for investors include: Refinement of Investment Philosophy: Successful investments in flexible space will rely on attracting a highly diverse tenant mix, providing more flexible leasing terms and valueadded services and amenities, especially those geared towards wellness.

Optimal Allocation of Flexible Space: The majority of investors believe coworking will have a neutral to positive impact on building value when present in less than 40 percent of the building. As a result, landlords and investors are recommended to achieve an optimal balance of traditional and agile space in a building/portfolio. Creating an equilibrium reduces overdependence on a single occupier while generating synergy between agile space operators and other tenants in the property.

Scalability and Efficiency Are Keys to Success in the Real Estate Market CBRE Research concludes that the profitability of agile space depends on several other factors such as whether corporate users are positioned to create more upscale locations, whether it is possible to allocate 30 percent or less space to hot desks (workspaces used by several workers during different time periods) while increasing allocation to private offices. In addition, it is necessary to source suitable sites in competitive locations while maintaining cost control.

Findings from the report rely heavily on demand dynamics of tenants. Major considerations for occupiers include: Addressing Existing Flexible Concerns: Occupiers are primarily concerned with the dilution of company culture and data security.

Secondary concerns include environmental, health and safety requirements, quality of infrastructure and employee retention.

Understanding In-market Agility Trends in Asia: Each Asia Pacific market is unique in its current and future adoption of flexible space, which is driving occupier decision-making.

• Pacific: 30 percent of Pacific occupiers currently use agile office solutions but 36 percent are not considering using in the future.

Flexible space is preferred by occupiers, with finance and technology firms the most common end-users.

• China: 9 percent use coworking space due to sudden increases in staff; occupiers turning to higher space utilization and activity-based working as agile solutions.

• India: 38 percent of occupiers will increase coworking portfolios by more than 15 percent in the coming years; 60 percent prefer private offices.

No One-Size Fits All Strategy: The increasing use of flexible space means occupiers are turning to flexible strategies that allow for adaptation to sudden changes in business conditions.

• Centralized Strategy: Operations are centralized in a single office, with a focus on privacy and data security and incorporation of agile solutions (Activity-based Working, provisions for expansion and event space/amenities).

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• Hub and Spoke Strategy: Hub-to-host core functions and the inclusion of agile-based solutions like coworking or serviced offices for select project and sales offices, turnkey solutions for larger but short-term nodes, provisions for expansion and contraction in lease terms, and selecting buildings with event space and amenities.

• Dispersed Strategy: Operations that are highly dispersed with mobile workforces are considering coworking or serviced offices for select project and sales offices and plug and play solutions with multiple agile providers with multiple centres.

Act While the Market is Hot for Flexible Spaces and Coworking Offices in Asia Pacific “Investors must not stand idly by as occupiers demand greater flexibility and the growth of agile space reshapes office demand. Regardless of the way in which investors opt to respond to the agile space revolution, ultimately the need for assets that combine traditional and agile space exists as the market transitions,” said Dr Henry Chin, Head of Research, Asia Pacific, CBRE. The conclusions on the future of the Asia Pacific flexible space in this report covers both serviced offices and coworking space.

Incubators and accelerators are not covered.

The 14 cities that frame the research project include Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Seoul, Tokyo, Singapore, Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, Delhi NCR, Mumbai and Bangalore.

About CBRE Group, Inc. CBRE Group, Inc. (NYSE: CBRE), a Fortune 500 and S&P 500 company headquartered in Los Angeles, is the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm (based on 2017 revenue). The company has more than 80,000 employees (excluding affiliates), and serves real estate investors and occupiers through approximately 450 offices (excluding affiliates) worldwide. CBRE offers a broad range of integrated services, including facilities, transaction and project management; property management; investment management; appraisal and valuation; property leasing; strategic consulting; property sales; mortgage services and development services. Please visit our website at www.cbre.com.

Like this article? Read more articles by CBRE in the Blog section on CityPassGuide.com 49

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Q&A

Car Requirements

To be considered as a qualified used car: • The vehicle can’t be more than five-years-old counting from manufacturing date.

• It also needs to be registered for at least six months in the owner’s home country and have a minimal mileage of 10,000km.

• The present owner of the vehicle must be the original owner. If the car has changed hands since the original title was issued it cannot be imported to Vietnam.

Can you recycle in HCMC? Many Saigonese households welcome the opportunity to supplement their meager earnings through selling recyclable materials.

Instead of throwing away your plastic and glass bottles, old shoes, and worn clothes, sell them to the ve chai lady or give them to your cleaning lady - they will make good use of them.

Cardboard is particularly valuable so make an effort to give it to someone who will benefit.

For more information about how to be more green, read Rethink Plastic on page 20-21 or go to the Blog section on CityPassGuide.com. For a personalised response, ask your specific question on our Q & A forum.

Can foreigners import a car during their first year in Vietnam?

Foreigners living in Vietnam are allowed to import a used car into Vietnam. Import duties are high, however, there are some procedures that can be followed to ensure the process is otherwise headache-free 50 | iamhcmc.com/gazette

• Cars with steering wheels on the right side, including removable and interchangeable steering wheels are not allowed.

• Do not disassemble cars when transporting and importing to Vietnam.

• Cars should not be significantly modified in terms of appearance and specifications, such as changing the engine power or the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).

Importing Procedure When the car arrives at Ho Chi Minh City port, it will need to be registered with the

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Vietnam Customs authorities. You will need to present the following documents, which can be downloaded from their website: • Application form for importing the automobile into Vietnam (don de nghi nhap khau o to) • Import license or certificate of free sale (giay phep nhap khau) • Bill of lading (van tai don) • Customs declaration (to khai hai quan xuat/ nhap khau) • A vehicle registration certificate (giay dang ky xe nuoc ngoai) The owner of the car will need to show the following documents: • A valid passport • A visa that is valid for at least three months • A valid work permit • A household registration book For more information about where to go to get the proper documents for importing a car, go to the Q & A section on CityPassGuide.com

How do you hire a personal driver?

If you need a long term driver we recommend asking around and inside your company as soon as you arrive, as word of mouth will serve you in this area. Otherwise the below site is a reliable English-speaking source of professional local drivers with a number of vehicle types.

Con Đường Việt - vietdriver.vn 115 Street 49, Tân Quy, D7; Hotline: 0918.131.942 A range of vehicle types from 4 up to 50 seats with professional drivers available for short or long term hire. English is spoken.

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Q&A

by City Pass Guide

How do I call an ambulance?

A: Vietnamese ambulances (dial 115) are equipped with the basics but this is not enough for some emergencies such as a heart attack or stroke. Several international clinics like FVHospital also have ambulances fitted with state-of-the-art equipment for all emergencies but Family Medical Practice goes one better by also providing an easy to remember emergency number (*9999). These ambulances allow for on-site or en-route treatment. Nevertheless, when possible, a taxi is often the fastest solution.

If you are injured, become unconscious and need expensive surgery but don’t have proof of medical insurance, you may find yourself in a lot of difficulty. Remember that nothing happens without proof of insurance. Carry the appropriate papers so that this kind of situation can be avoided.

Program the phone numbers of the hospital where you are insured into your mobile phone. Note that public and private medical services do not have cooperation agreements.

How do you shop online from overseas sites?

• Some overseas websites do not ship to Vietnam, so make sure to check carefully before placing an order.

• If possible, ship items to your friends overseas and ask them to send these items directly, or better yet, to come visit!

• If your credit card was issued inside Vietnam, get a guarantee from your bank that you are covered against fraud. Otherwise, make your payment using a credit card issued outside of the country or Paypal, which works as a clearing house.

• When your items arrive in HCMC, the post office will send you a note. Remember to bring your passport to pick them up.

• Bear in mind the post office will open any arriving packages and you may have to pay tariff or import duty for these items (spirits, food, electrical appliances, etc.). Tax and tariff rates vary depending on items.

For more information about the rise of online commerce in Vietnam, go to the Shopping section on CityPassGuide.com or ask your specific question on our Q & A forum.

For more information about healthcare in Vietnam, go to CityPassGuide.com or ask your specific question on our Q & A forum.

When is Tết?

In 2019, Tết holiday will be observed from the 2nd of February until the 10th, with the most important celebrations occuring on the 5th. Vietnam uses both the solar or Gregorian calendar (dương lịch) and lunisolar calendar (âm lịch) like most other Asian countries. However, most practical matters in daily life are based on and move in time with the solar calendar. The lunisolar calendar is used to establish important seasonal holidays, important historic events, or to celebrate Vietnamese festivals and traditions. Tết Nguyên Đán or Tết (Vietnamese New Year) is the most important annual holiday and the only time of the year when people return to their ancestral hometown to celebrate the New Year with family and friends. The window varies from year-to-year; from the last two days of the last lunisolar month, to the first three or four days of the new month (January or February depending on the year).

Expect to find most businesses closed for a week from the beginning of this period.

What should I prepare for your staff for Tết holidays?

In Vietnam, it is custom for all local staff to be paid an additional month’s salary for Tết holidays, so this should be factored into your staff budget.Staff may return late from their provinces after the holidays. Try to be patient. Your other option is to impose strict rules before allowing them to leave, or promise a lot of extra lì xì (lucky Tết money) if they returns on time.

What are the personal income tax rates?

Personal income tax rates for expatriate who is working in Vietnam more than 183 days (resident) are as follows: Annual Taxable Income (million VND) 0 – 60 >60 – 120 >120 – 216 >216 – 384 >384 – 624 >624 – 960 >960

Monthly Taxable Income (million VND) 0-5 >5 - 10 >10 - 18 >18 - 32 >32 - 52 >52 - 80 >80

Tax Rate (%) 5 10 15 20 25 30 35

For more information about Tet in Vietnam, go to CityPassGuide.com or ask your specific question on our Q & A forum.

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