Vietnam Dos & Don'ts!

Dos & Don'ts in Vietnam (IMPORTANT!)

In the orphanage...

- Do not wander off without anyone's knowledge. If you really have to leave the orphanage, do let your buddy and us know.

- Let's strive to give every child equal attention and treatment. Children who are cute and attention-seeking tend to attract more attention. Let's not leave any child out okie?

- Avoid giving gifts to individual children, especially candies. Sweets aren't healthy for the gum and teeth. If we want to give gifts, let's give as a YEP group and to every child. We have to let the Sister in the orphanage know as well to see if the gifts are appropriate for the children. =)

- Let's strive to have minimal physical contact with the children. Some of the children, including older ones may not be aware of social boundaries or norms. Please alert us or the caregivers if they get too touchy.


Generally...

- Do not wander off without anyone's knowledge. If you really have to leave for somewhere, do let your buddy and us know.

- Be alert and aware of your surroundings.

- Take good care of one's passport and valuables. Do try to keep cash in different areas. Have your passport on you at all times. Do try to keep your passport in your pocket if possible.
Petty theft, pickpocketing and motorbike snatch thieves are prevalent.

- Dress appropriately: sleeved tees, berms/pants. NO mini skirts/shorts/spags etc...
Vietnamese are conservative in their dressing. Let's respect them and not offend the local people.

- Do not be too loud. Vietnamese treasure peace and tranquility. They are not confrontational when it comes to expressing their wishes. I know sometimes we tend to get very excited when we are overseas but let's be mindful of our conduct. =) (but no need to whisper when we talk lah...)

- Ask for permission when we take photographs of someone. If they do not want you to, abide by their wishes.

- Guys, please do your utmost to protect the girls. haha.

Medical Concerns

- Drink plenty of water. Weather will be hot. Let's stick to bottled water and avoid ice, especially if we have a weak stomach. It was advised that tap water should be well-boiled before drinking. Ice may not be "clean" as well.

- Bring your own medications and prescription drugs.

You may like to prepare the following (Please consult your doctor):

o Paracetamol
Painkiller, should know the dosage amount

o Antacid
Neurtralize stomach acid due to indigestion, upset stomach, heartburn

o Anti-histamines
Help to stop allergy symptoms, such as itchy eyes, sneezing and a runny nose. If you know of your own allergy, it is better to get it from your doctor.

o Lomotil
Used to treat diarrhea.

- Take note of your buddy's medical history and allergies (to certain medications/food etc...)

- When we consume food, it should be well-cooked.

- Avoid unpasteurised milk. Be wary of non-sealed dairy products (e.g. homemade ice cream).
Err on the side of caution; if you are unsure, avoid.

- It is important to report any injuries or unwell condition. A simple cut or abrasion in exposed parts of the body can quickly get infected if untreated .

- Although Saigon has no malaria risk, it is advisable to get insect repellent that has 15-35% DEET to reduce mosquito bites.

- Those with asthma please bring along more than 1 inhaler and keep them at your side.

Let's really take good care of ourselves, our buddy and each other when we are in Vietnam. Do get to know more about your buddy as well. Please alert us when something is amiss ya. =)