Hi everyone, I’m Merrily from Yorkshire in England. Not so long ago I came to Vietnam and worked as a TEFL teacher at New Vision in Ha Tinh for 10 months. I am a politics graduate who has worked in parliament.
I whole heartedly encourage anyone who is thinking about doing it, to just do it. It was an eye opening experience and will be very valuable in my memories.
Coming from near to the moors and having lived in London too, I have experienced both peace and hectic bustle. But home is where the heart is, and I maybe prefer the country. Ha Tinh is like that, the city is like a town in England, but with the attitudes of a friendly village.
During my time there I made a lot of friends, including my students and their families. I think many tears were shed all around when I left, me included.
I am so glad I had the opportunity to see Ha Tinh and the true culture of Vietnam, before it eventually becomes fully westernized. It has most modern conveniences, but on a much smaller scale than Hanoi. But nothing is too dated for living basically. Mostly modern conveniences, a few takeaway outlets, cinema, gyms. Yoga classes and massage and health centre. There is a small group of expats. maybe 20. That meet up regularly. I often used to just get on my bike and ride and explore.