10 Essentials : John Ho

Every famous band/group has a "best of" or "essentials" album,  a collection of songs that complete the image and feeling of the band/group.  My personal favorite is "Smith's Best I," and firmly believe that every track on that album belongs there.  Being in a different environment here in Vietnam , I too have developed my own essentials, a list of things that maintain my sanity. Sure most of my items can be sourced in Vietnam, but I wouldn't trust shoddy/low quality goods with my mental health.  Without these seemingly "normal" things in my life I would probably go bonkers and try to strangle the next motorist that cut me off.

Here is my list:

Shoes Trees

I swear by shoes trees as that they retain the look of my shoes after a hard day of wear and are great at deodorizing. I like to think ladies prefer un-smelly feet.

Jeans

A quality pair of jeans is always a solid investment.  I prefer unwashed selvedge denim because I like to wear my pants in and admire them like a pair of 501XX vintage Levi's.  They look great out during the day or going out at night. 

Chukka Boots

Set yourself apart with some boots in the midst of black-dirty-footed locals and expats.  Chukka boots are a great compromise for a full boot and a dress shoes.  Dress them up with your Ferragamo suit or cuffed jeans.

Skype

Ever try to make international phone call at the local post office in Vietnam?  It sucks.  Get skype and relax in undies and make those important phone calls back home.

Iphone

A literal aphrodisiac for local Vietnamese women, a great tool to use for juggling girls text messages, entertaining prospects with pictures and games, and occasional work.

Map

It took me almost a long time to memorize most of the important streets in Saigon, at this point I know just as much as the locals.  You can rely on your Iphone or trust your taxi driver, but I wouldn't.  Cell phones lose charge, and taxi drivers can take you a for an hour ride to your destination 1km away.  Small maps from Park Hyatt Concierge or Saigon Tourist are great.  I laminate mine so they don't get ruined when I soak myself in beer/cognac.

Xe om Driver

Those creepy guys on the corner mouthing phrases like "Boom boom, gurl gurl, massage massage" aren't that scary when you get to know them.  They are literally mobile concierge service for the city, and very useful for locating ANYTHING you want.  Be smart and use local intelligence to complete your mission.

Gum

Wanna make new friends in a new city? Make sure your breathe smells good so they continue to talk to you.

Ear Plugs

If you've ever been to Vietnam then you'll know that the clubs are wickedly loud(+110dB).  I like my hearing, and I intend to have normal hearing after my stay in Vietnam.  I am religious about having ear plugs, try to get washable ones with a carry case.

John