Expat Advice: Culture Shock in Nha Trang, Vietnam

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

Nha Trang

Did you receive any cross-cultural training for your move abroad? If yes, was it before or after the move?

No

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If they speak another language in your new country, do you speak the language? If yes, did you learn the language before you moved or while abroad? If no, are you planning to learn the language?

No, I am helping locals with English speaking.

Were you worried or concerned about culture shock before you moved abroad?

No

How significant was the culture shock you experienced when you moved abroad?

Fantastic to be in a different culture... cross cultural relationship with girlfriend is tricky.

Expats often talk about going through the "stages of culture shock." Examples include the honeymoon phase, the irritation-to-anger stage, the rejection of the culture stage, and the cultural adjustment phase. Do you feel like you went through these or any other stages as you settled into the new culture?

Yes, I am going through those stages at present only after 2 month of living here. I am getting a little frustrated and angry at the slow, non-flexible way things are done here in government/banks etc.

What, if any, were some of the changes you noticed in yourself that might have been caused by culture shock? These might include things such as anger, depression, anxiety, increased eating or drinking, frustration, homesickness, etc.

All of the above/nearly went home.

What are some things you appreciate most about the new culture?

The people are wonderful...I have upmost respect for the women in this country.

What are the most challenging aspects of the new culture?

Slow pace/home cooked food very salty.....cars and buses bullying in traffic.

Do you have any advice or thoughts about culture shock you would like to share?

Watch out for some of the expats. Some of them left their manners at home or didn't have any to start with. For example, not keeping appointments and not bothering to call.