Where were you based, if you don't mind me asking? I was in Vung Tau, so right in the middle of the oil industry. Lots of northerners and lots of nouveau riche northerners and even some Russians/Ukrainians. Actually, most of the foreigners in town were Aussies and guys from the UK, working rigs. I'd bet with your mining experience you'd be able to get some kind of job in Vung Tau if you're ever interested in returning to VN. In my experience, Viet Kieu are treated nicely to their face, but often talked about behind their backs, but from what few Viet Kieu I've encountered, I'd say that the reputation isn't entirely unwarranted from the Viet perspective. It's a strange place (what place isn't) and I'm glad I lived there for a while, but I'm glad I'm moving on to other things.