An Expat Talks about Living in Da Nang, Vietnam

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Da Nang

How long have you lived there?

10 Months

What activities, clubs and organizations would you recommend to newcomers to help them meet others?

DaNang Expats, any school organization, Danang Expat Jobs is VERY helpful. We love to visit the 'Lady Buddha' and Marble Mountain. We take long walks on the beach day or night. We visit the markets, we travel by bus to hoi an, we eat at local restaurants.

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In terms of religious, racial, economic and cultural diversity, are the people of this city or town diverse? Are they accepting of differences? Describe.

The residents of DaNang are mostly Buddhist, although there are some Catholics and there are a few beautiful churches. These are remnants of the French occupation in Vietnam. The majority of people here are Vietnamese. Although there is large tourism industry. Travelers arrive every day from all over the world. All races, all religions.... I laugh though, as I am one of only a few Jewish folks here! They follow Vietnamese holidays...ancestral days, Buddha day, Lunar new year etc. But, they also celebrate Women's day, Teachers Day and Childrens Day too!

What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?

Tourism is one of the largest industries. But, Microsoft is building a large complex here and I believe Pepsi is too. There are many Professional people in the city including lots of engineers and architects because this city is expanding rapidly and there are many many hotel projects to design.

In general, what are peoples' priorities in this city? For example, do lives revolve around work, family, socializing, sports, etc.?

Our greatest joy is meeting new people, drinking coffee or drinking beers and talking about the adventures that everyone has had in Vietnam and other Southeast Asian cities. People love the beach here. They also like to travel to nearby towns. Don't miss Tams Restaurant. It is run by a local woman who grew up here during the Vietnam War. She is living history. There are a plethora of photographs all over her walls. She is full of stories some touching, some frightening and many heartbreaking. She has photo albums too. Jimmy Buffet sent her three surfboards from japan after visiting her here!

If a friend of yours was thinking of moving to this city or town from far away, what other advice would you give them.

Be open minded. Be prepared for a slower pace of life. If things don't get done today, they may get done tomorrow. Bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent. Be ready to smile and laugh every day. There are lots of new things to look forward too..food, people, rats, construction, the beach, dogs, tiny plastic chairs and Vietnamese coffee!