As the light drains from the day, the parks and pavements fill with starry-eyed couples and the mania of rush hour traffic gives way to a procession of amorous peacocks casting covetous eyes in every direction. Sometimes it can seem as though living in the city is like having a walk on part in the world’s biggest courtship ritual.
You’d need a heart of stone not to get caught up in it all. Even here at The Word we’re not immune, and we’re among the most cynical bunch of light-deprived workaholics in the city. That’s why, a year after our first foray onto Saigon’s dating scene, we’ve decided to play cupid once again by running another installment of Saigon Singles.
The format is simple. Ten bachelors and ten bachelorettes have kindly allowed our reporters to probe the very depths of their souls with some pertinent questions about themselves and what they are looking for in a partner. Like a more benevolent Simon Cowell, we’ve taken their deeply personal answers and made them public so that you, the public, can embrace or dismiss them as you see fit. Then you simply get on your mobile phone and send us an SMS to 0944 427549 with your favourite male and favourite female. Remember, though, only one SMS per person.
The bachelor and bachelorette who glean the most votes will get the chance to prove that actions speak louder than words when we put them together for a blind date at one of the city’s plushest restaurants, La Camargue. There will also be special prizes for the two winners!! Having done our bit, we’ll exit stage right and wait for sparks to fly and wedding bells to sound. Not that we are trying to put any pressure on anyone… And don’t worry, you’ll hear all about the date in November’s issue when we get the scoop from both parties, with photos too!
VOTE FOR LOVE
Now that you’ve read our poetic ramblings on amour in the city, time to move on and meet 20 of the city’s most eligible bachelors and bachelorettes. We’re throwing a readership voting competition, too, and we’ve made voting as easy and quick as possible. Each of our singles has a code. So, simply grab your mobile phone and text your vote for the most eligible bachelor and bachelorette to 0944 427549.
It’s that easy. Remember, though, one SMS per person.
GALINA NATALUSHKO – F1
Age: 25
Nationality: Ukrainian
Occupation: Language extraordinaire (speaks five), currently teaching English and Chinese.
Describe your perfect man
Nobody is perfect. However, I look for an honest, responsible, unselfish, positive man. Not much, I know!
Why are you in Vietnam?
I lived in China for three years and wanted a change. Vietnam was it.
What turns you off in a man?
Rude, drunk and stupid. I need to be challenged.
Finish this sentence: My best/worst assets are . . .
My best: I have a lot. I’m kind, dependable, honest and clever. Oh, and I enjoy life!
My worst: It’s hard, but I’ll try. I’m too romantic and I have bad handwriting.
What do you first notice in a man?
His eyes, they’re a mirror to the soul.
What can a man expect on a date with you?
If he brings some interesting conversation to the table (I hate awkward silences), he can expect to have a good time.
Between the Ukraine, China and Vietnam, where do the sexiest men live?
It’s all about personality not nationality.
If you were a product, what would your slogan be?
Be yourself.
Why do you want to be selected for this blind date?
I want to do something crazy and fun.
NGUYEN ANH HOA – F2
Age: 35
Nationality: Vietnamese
Occupation: Travel agent and a make-up artist for weddings
Are you looking for love?
I’m not really actively looking. If it comes, that’s great. But I don’t worry about it.
Describe your perfect man
He would be able to share things with me, understand me, and help when I have a problem. I don’t need anything else.
What about physical appearance?
I like tall and manly men.
Have you ever dated a foreign guy? Would you like to?
I was married to a Vietnamese man so it would be nice to try a relationship with a foreigner.
Are you interested in men from any particular country?
I don’t care where they’re from.
What’s your idea of a perfect first date?
I would like to go somewhere to have dinner together so we can talk and I can learn about the guy. Maybe go to an Italian restaurant because I love Italian food. Then I would go to listen to some music afterwards and dance to have a bit of fun.
What do you think of the dating scene in Saigon?
It’s difficult. Difficult to find and connect with someone. Difficult to talk to other people. Tradition in Vietnam dictates that a woman should never approach a man. I’ve grown up in a culture where the man chases the woman.
Do you think Ho Chi Minh City is a romantic place?
There is a romantic side to it but there are definitely other places that are more romantic. The only time that it is really romantic is at Tet with the fireworks and everyone’s happy. Saigon’s really noisy. I’m here to work. It’s definitely not a good place to hold hands and watch the sunset.
Finish the sentences: My best asset is... My worst asset is...
...my sexy body! ...I don’t have one!
Do you have any special talents?
I’m a karaoke queen.
CAMILLE PAULINO – F3
Age: 23
Nationality: Filipina
Occupation: Nursery Teacher
Why is it hard to find a man here?
Because of my standards and the options here. My stay here is indefinite and uncertain, so it’s hard to find a long term relationship.
Is it harder to find one here than in Manila?
It is harder here because I have standards and most men [Vietnamese and expats] don’t meet those. More Filipino men do.
What’s your perfect man?
For me it’s really hard. You want that tall, dark, handsome guy. I have no criteria for that. He has to be a gentleman and humorous and presentable, meaning I can introduce him to my parents.
What turns you off?
Dirty nails. Rugged jeans. For me, a guy has to match his shoes with his trousers. A man who isn’t a gentleman. A guy who can’t make me laugh turns me off. I don’t like a serious date.
What are the differences in the dating scenes in Saigon and Manila?
Filipino men would come to my house and introduce themselves to my parents first before going out on a date. Since my parents aren’t here, the guys want to meet at a club like Fuse or a bar. In Manila, it’s usually dinner, move and then coffee after. Here you can’t do that because nothing is open late except bars.
What are some ridiculous pick up lines used on you?
‘Will you come home with me because my bed is so comfortable?’ I live in An Phu and some construction workers have whistled at me. Pick up lines are so overused. If you like a girl why don’t you just tell her right there and then. Vietnamese waiters have asked for my name and address and have even given me extra food.
What’s a perfect date for you?
I’m a typical girl. Movie, dinner and coffee afterwards. I don’t like having dates at a bar. I like to have a conversation. A date is about conversing and getting to know each other.
My ideal date here is watching DVDs at home and cooking for someone.
What would you cook?
A Filipino dish called sinigang. It’s a tamarind based dish with pork, okra and radish. You have to eat it with rice and fish sauce to balance the sourness of the dish.
What were your first impressions of Vietnamese men?
They’re too short for me. I want tall men.
Where do you go in the city to meet guys?
Actually I don’t want to meet guys because if someone comes along, he will come along. You don’t have to go man hunting. My advice is don’t rush it. Don’t go man hunting, it will fail.
HUONG NIELSEN – F4
Age: 29
Nationality: Vietnamese
Occupation: Business owner, Household Goods Moving — Logical Moves Vietnam
Why are you still single?
I’ve not seen Brad Pitt yet.
How does your job affect relationships?
I find it hard to meet people. My work often keeps me very busy all day long so I seldom have time to myself and am easily tired. Also, a consequence of working for a company such as mine is that I often attend many events at night, which again takes up a lot of my time.
What turns you off in a man?
Being two-faced. I am quite a straightforward person so I’m not comfortable dealing with two-faced, dishonest people. These types of people can hurt you.
Describe your perfect date in Saigon.
A Shangri-La romance. If it’s a night-time date, dinner somewhere quiet with a romantic view that would make us feel relaxed. If it’s a day-time date, hanging out together at the swimming pool, making jokes, talking, laughing and drinking… or cooking together in the kitchen.
If you could choose one song to serenade someone you fancied, what song would it be?
One Night With You by Elvis Presley.
What do you want from taking part in this article? Do you want to meet the love of your life or to just have some fun?
Just fun. I believe in love at first sight but whoever I meet, we have to be attracted to each other straight away. Then we can flirt and become comfortable enough with each other to learn more.
JESSICA TARTELL – F6
Age: 28
Occupation: Consultant
Nationality: American
Why did you come to Vietnam?
On a whim. After I graduated I decided to come and set up a consulting business here in Vietnam.
So, how’s it going?
It’s going well although I’m realising that being entrepreneurial requires a lot of hard work.
So what are your first impressions of Vietnam?
I love the people. When I lived in China, everyone used to touch me because I looked different. Here they are more respectful. I also love the food.
What can an unsuspecting man expect from you then?
Entertaining stories and an effervescent personality. I think deep down I’m a romantic with a big heart.
You sound like a girl with hidden talents!
Well, I can touch my nose with my tongue. I can also negotiate myself into anything, I’m very persuasive.
Have you had any funny dating experiences?
I went to meet one guy a couple of weeks ago and he decided to lick my ear to express his feelings for me. It was not mutual.
So what would be the best way to approach you in a bar?
If a man came and started talking about baseball, he would definitely have my attention. I’m a big Boston Red Sox fan.
What are your other interests?
I love to travel. I have visited over 40 countries. I think I was born to explore.
So what’s been your favourite country on your travels?
Definitely Cuba. Being American, I had to sneak in, but the people were so friendly and welcoming. It was a truly inspiring place.
Now onto the meat and bones of the interview. If you had to liken yourself to an animal, what would you be?
I would be xiong mao which means bear cat in Chinese or to you and I, a panda. They are definitely my favourite animal. I think the only difference is that pandas are not sexual animals!
SARAH KJÖLSTAD – F7
Age: 29
Nationality: Norwegian
Occupation: Quality Developer
Describe your perfect man.
My perfect man is confident, he knows himself more than anyone else. He’s outgoing and not afraid to live. He’s funny, generous and is always a perfect gentleman.
Tell us about one of your most fun experiences:
Well, with or without my clothes on?! With clothes it has to be the time I sky dived. I’ve never had a better adrenalin rush. Without the clothes on has to be saved for another interview with another magazine!
Where do you go to meet singles here?
Massage parlors! No, in truth I think it’s just by being out with friends, meeting new people and being open to new experiences.
Between Norway and Vietnam, which country has the sexiest men?
Norway. Period.
If you had only six months left to live, what would you do with the time?
I would eat, eat, eat, eat, and travel while I’m doing it. I would skydive every day and say a proper goodbye to everyone that matters to me, over dinner of course.
Do you have a favourite quote and what is it and why?
‘God never closes a door without opening a window’. Although I’m not religious and I don’t think that everything happens for a reason, I like the optimism in that quote and the fact that you never know where life is going to lead you.
If you could trade places with any other person for a day, who would it be?
I would love to walk in Ted Bundy’s shoes for a day. In that week nobody would get killed and I would get an idea of what goes on in a crazy persons head. Or wait, maybe Superman, I would love to fly.
If you had to choose to live without alcohol or sex for an entire year what would you choose?
Sex is messy and dirty and bad! Alcohol on the other hand is refreshing and wholesome.
ELIZABETH BUGLYA – F8
Age: 33
Nationality: Canadian
Occupation: Teacher
Describe your perfect Ho Chi Minh City date.
Go out for dinner, maybe something a little romantic, followed by a cocktail at Saigon Saigon at the top of the Caravelle Hotel, and then catch some live music at La Habana. After that, who knows…
What are the three things people are probably saying behind your back.
That I am honest, that I know how to have a good time and shake my ass at a night club, and I’ll try anything once, okay, max three times.
Okay, those are the nice things but, c’mon, give us at least one piece of dirt. A flaw.
Hmmm..... well I am a terrible liar, my thoughts are written all over my face, at all times. It is really quite funny actually, a true open book — that could be bad at times, because it gets me into trouble.
Any secret crushes?
Yes, Justin Murta, he is involved in the Hip Hop community here in Saigon and does a lot of outreach, plus he is super cool and cute.
Your next holiday destination would be?
I am going to Sapa and Ha Long Bay during the last week of October with a small group of close friends. We will do some kayaking, motor biking in the mountains and some trekking. I like to be active on holiday, though I am not opposed to lounging by the pool or beach sometimes.
The iPod test and be honest. Throw it on ‘shuffle’ and list the first five songs that come up.
1)Stone Temple Pilots, Vasoline
2)50 Cent, Candy Shop
3)Jay-Z, Big Pimpin
4)Kardinal Offishall ft. Akon, Body Bounce
5)Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Californication
Funny guy with average looks — hot guys with a few bad jokes. Who do you sleep with?
Definitely the funny guy.
VANESSA VRDOLJAK – F9
Age: 37
Nationality: British/Croatian
Occupation: Financial Consultant
How do you find the dating scene here?
In terms of dating, Asia is the worst possible place to be when you’re a woman of my age. For women in general, it’s not the place to be. Most men are either married or young and go for local women. Finding a man in their early 40s who hasn’t done the whole town is mission impossible.
You’re 37. Do you believe the Vietnamese think you’re past your sell by date?
God yeah! Even my mum’s getting worried. She wants me to settle down at home but I decided to come to Asia. I’ve got about five to six years left for kids. My younger brother is already married. My situation is because of the choices I’ve made — some have been good, some bad.
Do you think it’s harder for women than for men in terms of dating?
Yes. Try finding a single white male in Saigon. There’s lots of passing through traffic and lots of eligible men are more interested in local women because it’s easier. Local women aim to please. Western women have certain conditions they expect to be met.
What about Vietnamese men?
For a Vietnamese man to date a western woman, I think they would have had to have lived abroad. A local traditional man would not put up with a western woman. Also, a local man in his late 30s that is still single is rare.
Tell us something that not many people know
I met a fortune teller when I was travelling in India. He said I would marry a man from my home country at the age of 37 and that we would meet abroad. I was 34 at the time and planning to go back to England in a few months.
What would your personal profile be for a dating website?
Young at heart, experienced brunette looking for a mature but sophisticated man still full of life.
TANG BAO QUYEN – F10
Age: 26
Nationality: Vietnamese
Occupation: Actress
Are you looking for love?
Not really. I leave everything up to fate. You can’t plan for anything. It’s better to let things happen naturally.
What is your favourite way to spend a date?
I like to spend a date at a coffee shop located at the top of a tall building. For me, it’s best to go at around 3pm to 5pm when it’s cloudy and just about to rain. I love looking out at the view of the city with a coffee caramel in hand.
How does your career affect your love life?
I have an abnormal career. I get to meet a lot of people but I don’t have time to look for a man. In my free time I go out with my friends or to work-related events.
You must get to meet a lot of good-looking men in your job. Does this ever lead to anything?
I do get to meet a lot of handsome men but I just view them as contacts and don’t look at them as love interests. I’m more interested in personality and character than looks, anyway. Though, maybe I’d go out with an actor in the future.
Have you ever dated a foreigner?
I’ve dated a Viet Kieu. It doesn’t make a difference to me where they’re from. All I care about is whether they’re clean, funny and nice. When I was young, I used to dream of having mixed children, but I don’t anymore. I have noticed that a lot of foreign men living in Vietnam really like the local girls and that’s why they are here.
How easy is it to meet single men in Saigon?
It’s not difficult at all. I meet single men all the time. A lot of my friends are single and so are many people in the industry I work in.
If you were a superhero, what power would you have and how would you use it?
I’d fly so I could get out of traffic jams.
KEVIN GERMAN – M1
Age: 30
Nationality: American
Occupation: Documentary photographer
Are you single by choice or circumstance?
A little of both. I was in a relationship for the first two-and-a-half years that I lived in Vietnam. I’m using this time to concentrate on my work.
Have you dated local girls? If so, how are they different from dating westerners?
I have been out on a few dates with local Vietnamese girls but never anything serious. Some women are well-educated and well-versed in western culture while others barely speak English. For me, I would have a hard time dating someone who I could not communicate fully with. [I want] someone who would understand my humour and would be able to kick it back to me. So then I would probably lean towards dating the person more versed in western culture. But I have no rule when it comes to dating. Just has to feel right.
Do you often get asked by locals why you’re still not married with kids? If so, what do you reply?
Yes, I get asked this question all of the time. I usually just joke around with them and say in Vietnamese that women and children are too expensive and that I work and travel a lot.
If you could choose one woman to photograph, who would it be and why?
I think Madonna would be interesting to photograph. But not Madonna now, Madonna circa 1990. She is a visually compelling artist and often controversial. She is a very strong woman and you can see that in her face. I think she would give a lot more to the photographer 20 years ago than she would now.
Any funny dating experiences here?
Well I’ll tell a story in Thailand instead. My ex and I were in Chiang Mai attending the lantern festival a few years back. She, always being on a health kick, somehow persuaded me to get my first colonic with her. She went first. Then it was my turn. As the Thai nurses entered the room they could tell I was nervous. They said in broken English, ‘Kevin, we heard you are embarrassed. You don’t have to worry. We’re not ladies … we’re lady boys!’ I laughed so hard, I almost forgot what was to come next. Truly a dating experience no one should have.
What are some of your special talents?
I’m an excellent packer and I can usually find an internet connection most anywhere in the world.
Do you have a pick up line in Vietnamese?
[Laughs] No pick up line in Vietnamese. I’m sure if I even tried, I’d say something completely wrong. Although I do try to get my non-Vietnamese speaking friends new to Vietnam to say, ‘Anh thich dit cua em’ (I like your butt) to girls.
NACHO BUI – M2
Age: 38
Nationality: From Nha Trang and Paris
Occupation: Video maker and photographer
What brings you here?
I came to Vietnam to learn Vietnamese, to learn about Vietnam and to find my Vietnamese soul.
Why are you single?
Because, weird, last year I was engaged. I went back to France and found out she didn’t wait for me. I’m not healed, still hurt and don’t want to get into a relationship. I still remember her.
What is your perfect woman?
One who is intelligent, funny and beautiful.
Where would you take a girl out on a date and what can she expect from you?
I would take her to Nha Trang, go on an island. She can expect to find someone sincere and funny. I’m the guy next door. As a photographer I can see at first sight if I can get along with someone.
Where do you go to meet women?
Yoko because one of my best friends plays there every Sunday; and I sing there as well.
What do you sing?
I sing The Other Side by The Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Okay, so you’re a singer too. What song would you sing to impress a date?
You’re Never There by Cake. The reason is when I date someone, whenever I have free time I want to be with that person.
If you were a product what would your slogan be?
It’s not just do it, taste it. As a nacho you can taste me.
Do you have a pick up line in Vietnamese?
Em biet an guacamole khong? (Do you know how to eat guacamole?)
MORRIS THORPE – M3
nicknamed Möte (pronounced /MO-tay/)
Age: Younger than I look
Nationality: Global; Vietnam is the ninth country I’ve lived in
Occupation: FMCG marketing dude and budding musician
Describe your perfect woman.
My perfect woman would have red hair, blue eyes, freckles, will want to have a lot of children and be willing to practise.
Why are you still single?
I’m single by choice. I’m happy and comfortable being single. I enjoy many of the relationships I currently have.
Why are you in Vietnam?
Two reasons — my professional experience has been in developing markets, so this country is a perfect match for my skills, and the other reason is the amazing accessibility of the local music scene.
What turns you off in a woman?
Greed, most of all, and dishonesty.
Being a musician, what song would you play to impress a woman and why?
Hard Core Troubadour by Steve Earle because I think the song best describes me. The song is about a struggling musician in a relationship with a well-off woman and how she can’t resist him even though she knows he will never amount to anything.
What is your pick up line, what is the worst pick up line used on you, and do you have one in Vietnamese?
I would show a woman my tattoo and ask her to describe what she sees and tell her, based on her answer, what her favourite sexual position is. Hmm . . . worst line used on me . . . no one has ever tried to pick me up. I don’t have a pick up line in Vietnamese [yet].
Where do you go to meet singles here?
Anywhere there’s live music.
Any funny dating experiences here?
My date borrowed my phone to send a text to another guy. The guy called back on my phone to ask for directions to where we were and showed up as we finished our meal. This person was of one the few people I defriended from my Facebook page.
You’ve lived in Russia, the US, England, France, Latvia, Slovenia, Singapore, the Czech Republic and now Vietnam. Where are the sexiest women so far?
Latvia, because they are very tall, very blonde and very curvaceous.
And the least?
The US, because they’re fat and usually very stupid.
DANIEL DEGROOD – M4
Age: 33
Nationality: American
Occupation: Yoga Teacher
Describe yourself in no more than six words.
Unpredictable, spontaneous, curious, dedicated, honest, trustworthy
Why are you still single?
To be very candid, my motivation to go out and meet women has dropped dramatically since living here partly due to the nagging ‘working women’.
How do you feel about the Saigon dating scene?
It’s totally public. Don’t expect to date privately in this town. There is drama everywhere and it’s totally crazy. So, when I go out I just look to have a great time and maybe meet some new people.
What turns you off in a woman?
Bad attitude is the worst.
How often do locals/foreigners hit on you?
Every time I go out.
Do you have a special talent?
I can fix almost anything... MacGyver style.
Describe your perfect date in Saigon.
The perfect date would be unpredictable and high energy. I LOVE trying new food so would have to eat at some point. It could be a dinner or a late night snack after dancing. I do like dancing, so at some point I would be out there shaking it on the dance floor.
What’s the main difference between dating here and abroad?
The big two are language and cultural differences.
What do you notice first in a woman?
I notice her facial expressions and attitude... A close second is the booty! I love a woman with some curves.
What do you want from taking part in this article?
I want to put myself out there and see what happens. This is exactly one of those things I love about life. I am excited to take part.
Do you want to meet the love of your life or to just have some fun?
I have always been the kind of guy that looks for that person I would want to spend my life with... You just never know.
NACHO MADRAZO – M5
Age: 33
Nationality: Spanish
How long have you been in Vietnam and why are you here?
I’ve been here eight days. I’ve been out of Spain for ten years and have lived in San Francisco for the past eight. A year and a half ago, I sold all my possessions and packed a backpack and travelled through Central America. I’ve always wanted to live in Asia for a year or two. I have friends here so I chose Vietnam.
Have you managed to glean any insights into the Saigon dating scene?
It seems pretty interesting. Everyone seems to have a girlfriend, or two. Apparently, it’s easy, but not for me. I’m sure things will get better. It will be nice to date a Vietnamese girl to get a local insight of the city and get a different perspective.
If you were a crisp flavour, what would you be and why?
I’d be salt and vinegar because my Mum loves vinegar, and salted (salado) in Spanish means you have a lot of life and are easy-going and communicative. That pretty much sums me up.
Tell us a sad story
When I was in my early teens, we used to go on holiday to the same place every summer. I used to see this girl at the pool. She was the girl of my dreams. When I was 17, my parents went away and left me in charge of the car. I went with some friends to the mountains and met the same girl there at a party at 2am. She recognised me and asked what I was doing there. I invited her to eat at my house and she ended up staying a week. My friend, Eduardo, was having a party so I invited her to go with me as my date. After she met Eduardo, I never saw her again. They’re married with kids now.
Is it easier to pick up girls in English or Spanish?
English because I have an accent. Though, that’s not going to be much help here.
How do you think women view you?
I don’t really know. Though, one time, a fortune teller in Cairns told me I was good with women. She asked me if I knew why and then said it was because they all wanted to be my mum. I certainly don’t want a girl to be my mum.
PHUONG TRAN – M6
Age: 27
Nationality: Vietnamese
Occupation: Account supervisor for a PR firm
Would you date a westerner?
Why not? I did my Masters degree in Australia so I’m well adapted to western culture. I think that western women are often more open-minded in terms of dating. Some Vietnamese women — especially the more traditional ones — are too conservative. I like girls who are easy- going. Obviously there will always be barriers if you date a foreigner such as language and culture, but if you go in knowing that then you can adapt to each other and make it work.
What’s your ideal date?
I’d take her to a restaurant with a good view (maybe at the top of a tall building) with good wine and good music. Clubs aren’t a good place to have a date- wrong atmosphere. Dinner at a restaurant is much better because you can talk and find out if your personalities click. And I pay for dinner — that’s a tradition I like to keep.
Is personality more important than looks then?
Yes… I usually meet girls through mutual friends. Personality is the first priority and the second is definitely looks. But they have to be a good person. When you see hot girls, you say, ‘Wow!’, but if they’re not good inside then I don’t move any further than that point.
How do you show a woman that you like her?
I don’t know. Lots of different things I guess. I like to really get to know girls and show a great interest in what they have to say. It’s all about doing little things to make her feel special. I also cook for my girlfriends — that’s a great way to show affection.
What’s your biggest turn-off?
The girl who [exasperated sigh] is obnoxious and overly loud. I don’t like girls to be too pushy and aggressive. There’s a big difference between being confident and being obnoxious.
Do you think all Vietnamese men think this way?
I don’t think I think the same way as the local, local men. Many Vietnamese men don’t like girls who smoke and drink and hang out or go on dates with lots of different people. I don’t mind that as long as my girlfriend is faithful to me. Some Vietnamese guys think that if they’re dating a girl then she belongs to them. I can get jealous, but I think I know how to keep it under control.
What’s the worst thing about dating in Saigon?
Saigon is such a busy, fast-moving city that it can be great for dating. There are always opportunities to go out and meet people or socialise with friends. However, it often feels like quite a small town. The same faces appear again and again and everyone knows each other. That can be a problem because if you do bad things the rumours will quickly circulate.
MINH DO – M7
Age: 26
Nationality: Vietnamese-American
Occupation: senior project director of YES Kids/Pros, an English language learning software solutions company
You’re one of Saigon’s hottest singles — which means you’re hot, but you’re still single?
[Laughs] Yeah, I guess you could say I’ve been a dedicated career man. For the last few months I’ve just focused on work in two start-up companies and getting to know the city streets since I just moved up from the Mekong Delta.
Give us some insider information to meeting girls here.
The first is that Vietnamese men make amazing wing-men. Let them know you’re single and they’ll take care of the rest. And oh! Waitresses! In the States you’d never think of just asking your waitress if she has a boyfriend and if not, for her number, but here it’s totally acceptable.
What does Saigon lack socially?
Speed-dating... No, speed-marriage. Come in, meet 60 plus women and walk out with a bride!
Hobbies?
Drinking, soccer and playing the violin.
How long can a guy and girl date without celebrating it physically before it getting into the dreaded ‘friend zone’?
I’d say a month. If everything is going good and she’s into me — me into her, but it’s still not moving along... then yeah, you’re too close to being just a good friend.
You bring a date home — it could go either way. What album do you put on to seal the deal?
Nouvelle Vague - sure, it’s a bit poppy and upbeat, but it’s also soothing and you can easily talk over it.
You take a girl out for a drink — she says ‘order for me’. What do you pick?
A pina colada, but only if they could include durian in it somehow. You can’t get more Vietnamese than pineapple, coconut and durian!
ROBIN BABU – M8
Age: 28
Occupation: Restaurant owner
Nationality: Indian
Any reason why you’re single?
I came here to open a business so I’m very busy. particularly at lunchtimes and early evenings. Obviously it can be quite hard to date with that kind of schedule. Being single is sometimes easier because I can choose what to do with my time.
What’s your opinion on dating in Saigon?
To be honest I haven’t had much experience of dating in Saigon. From my friends’ experiences I think that dating in Saigon can be quite inconsistent. It’s hard to form long-term relationships because people are always coming and going.
Do you think there’s a difference between western and Vietnamese girls in terms of dating?
I think girls are all similar — regardless of where they’re from. Perhaps Vietnamese girls are sometimes a bit more affectionate than western girls.
Is that a good thing?
[laughs] I don’t know. Maybe it’s dangerous. Vietnamese girls seem to get more attached than Western girls. They can take dating and relationships too seriously.
What’s the most important thing that you look for in a woman?
Honesty. That’s definitely my main priority.
Not looks?
No. [laughs] Seriously, I don’t care about looks. I met my last girlfriend on the phone. I dialed her number by mistake and she called back to see who it was. We got talking and eventually met up. Personality is far more important than looks.
What do you worry about most before a date?
My biggest worry is whether she’ll like me and if we’ll have enough to talk about on the date. I can be quite shy. Sometimes I’m a slow starter and find it hard to find things to talk about.
What are your main interests?
My business is very important to me. I’m hoping to expand it. In my spare time I go to the gym, play cricket and watch football.
PAUL ANDREAS MASSAD – M9
Age: 21
Nationality: Chilean and Lebanese.
Occupation: Self employed and student studying professional communications at RMIT
Are you single by choice or circumstance?
I’m single by choice because I haven’t found a girl with her own thing going on. I’ve found girls here in Vietnam, locals and foreigners, high maintenance and full of drama.
What do you look for in a woman?
Somebody who has her own hobbies, supports herself in her own way, that I can be myself around, meaning I can use the word sh*t and f**k around her. Not afraid to go out and get dirty. An independent girl who has her own thing going on, we don’t have to be together all the time.
Physically. Well, I’m kinda short. I’ve dated tall girls. I really don’t care if she’s a little fat or out of shape. I really don’t as long as she can have a good conversation and make me laugh.
Tell us some bad dating experiences you’ve had here.
I met this girl through a friend so we went out to Lush. We ended up hooking up and after the ‘act’ I’m like, ‘What’s this? Is this going anywhere?’ She says, ‘No. You’re too ugly.’ It was a reality check.
What is something that we would be surprised to know about you?
I can cook. I make a fabulous mango risotto.
What are turn offs for you?
A girl trying too hard. That she’s not being herself and you can tell she’s putting on a show. And hair, I can’t deal with bushy hair. For example, a girltache (a girl mustache), beard or side burns.
Where do your eyes first land when you see a woman?
Her nose. Vietnamese chicks have the piggy noses. Before noticing the teeth and eyes, the nose. There’s really no rationality to it, that’s just where my eyes go. Here, there’s not much to offer, they’re lacking on hips and chest.
Do you find it harder to date here than in other cities you’ve lived in? Why or why not?
To get laid, it’s easy here. The hard thing is to find a relationship. For me it’s harder here because I don’t like the Vietnamese attitude where the man has to take charge.
Any advice for meeting people here?
Stop trying too hard. Just be yourself. If you’re a geek, be a geek. Also, depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re looking for a relationship then be yourself. If you’re looking to get laid then put your game on.
SAM MORLEY – M10
Age: 24
Nationality: English
Occupation: Trainee Product Manager
Why are you still single?
Good question. Because I’m still just having fun. At the same time, I’ve not met anyone I’ve wanted to be with. I reckon I need to be tamed. I’m looking for someone to do that.
Describe your perfect woman
She must be attractive, independent, able to hang out with my mates, and not moan about sport. If she doesn’t like it, she should just shut up. Also, she should not be a pushover.
What do you notice about a girl when you first meet her?
I love girls with awesome hair. Then it goes ass and then tits. In that order.
How would you describe the dating scene in Saigon?
Incestuous. There are only a limited number of girls that hang around where I go. Eventually, after two years here and having a large group of mates, ‘happenings’ seem to bump into each other.
Compare the dating scene in Saigon to that back at home
It’s easier here than back in England. You don’t have to use any of your faculties to impress a woman.
Are you here to date Vietnamese women only?
No. There are some attractive western women here but they’re hard to come by, usually taken and harder to get. I would much prefer a western woman. I enjoy their company more and they’re just better. Better conversation, we have more in common and they’re better in bed because they know what they’re doing.
Have you had an active love life since you’ve been here?
Love life? Pulling is easy if you put your mind to it. Finding something genuine is difficult.
If you were a Vietnamese dish, which one would you be and why?
I’d be bun thit nuong because you can eat me in the morning, at lunch or in the evening — whenever you want!
Do you have any special talents?
I can play the didgeridoo. I was born in Australia and the last time I went back to visit, I bought one and a “teach yourself” handbook. I’m quite good.
You play centre back in football. What does that involve?
I sort out the mess my team leaves behind.
Does that mean you can sort out a girl?
Definitely.
