Living in Vietnam

"Expats planning to retire in Vietnam should research their visa options, as different types of visas are available for expatriates depending on their particular situation. They should also consider learning some Vietnamese, as this will improve their ability to travel and interact with the local people. Expats should also familiarise themselves with the local customs in Vietnam, as this will help them to adapt and integrate better into the local culture. Furthermore, it is important to consider the cost of living in Vietnam, as this can vary greatly from city to city. Finally, it is recommended to get health insurance coverage in Vietnam, as this will help ensure that any medical bills incurred during their stay will be covered," wrote a member in Vietnam.

"Be prepared for lots of noise and pollution. Most people find learning Vietnamese very difficult. But other than that, it is a very interesting place to live, also lots to see outside the city especially if you have a motorbike! Most Hanoians are very nice to foreigners," commented one expat who made the move to Hanoi.

"If you like a bit of very social running/walking, you could join the Hash House Harries (motto: Drinkers with a running problem) in Saigon, Nha Trang, Hoi An or Hanoi. They are a fun exercise group and with the emphasis on 'fun'. Suitable for all ages and weights, male, female, locals and expats. Look them up on the internet," remarked one expat living in Vietnam.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Vietnam is generally quite comfortable. Vietnam features a vibrant culture, an affordable cost of living, and modern amenities like reliable high-speed internet and quality healthcare. Expats and digital nomads in particular are well-supported by a growing tech and entrepreneurial community, making it easy to connect and collaborate with like-minded individuals. The country’s dramatic landscapes, street food, and friendly locals make it an attractive destination for long-term expats and digital nomads," said one expat in Vietnam.

"Crime rates in Vietnam are relatively low compared to other countries in the region, and certain types of violent crime are comparatively rare. The main concern for travelers is scams and petty theft, although more serious offenses such as pickpocketing, fraud, and bag snatching are becoming increasingly common. In general, travelers should practice common sense and vigilance when exploring the country to ensure their safety," wrote a member in Vietnam.

"Yes, there is a great deal of diversity throughout Vietnam. The country is made up of approximately 54 separate ethnic groups, and each one contributes to the overall cultural richness of the nation. Additionally, the nation’s population is made up of a mix of religions such as Buddhism, Christianity and Islam, among many others. Despite the wide range of origins and beliefs, the people of Vietnam are generally accepting of differences and strive for harmony within the community," remarked one expat living in Vietnam.

"People in this town are very conservative and most accept the diversity that expats bring to this town. However the older people seem to be less accepting of expats and if an expat is dressed differently or has pink hair for example they are almost disgusted. So if you dont stand out you will be fine in Vung Tau. Blending in is good," wrote one member in Vung Tau.

"They have solid exam results and the education is probably on par with the British International School (both schools got the same inspection results). However, there are very few extracurricular activities here and if there's any, it is probably not very interesting. Sports is not a big thing here, and so is arts (drama productions are ... eh) - it is more academic. Very few social events for students in the school and lack of enthusiasm from the students to participate. The school's biggest advantages are the education and the students - very friendly and motivated to achieve great results but that's all. Not truly an international school (lack of diversity). BIS or SSIS (American curriculum) are more preferable (very diverse - they have caps on the number of students from each nationality). In Hanoi, I suggest UNIS - it's a good school but very hard to get in," wrote an expat with kids at ABC International School in Ho Chi Minh City.

"Your child/ren will be very happy there. My daughter goes to Green Shoots International School and she absolutely loves it. What a wonderful school where every child is valued. Small-sized classes in caring and nurturing environmentgive one-on-one attention to students, supporting each child to his or her potential and preparing them for the complex, global 21st century," commented one expat when asked about Green Shoots International School in Hoi An.

"BIS is a great school. Academically, in my opinon, they are the best school in Vietnam. They are often the only school to publicise their IGCSE and IB examination results, and the results are a testament to the standard of education provided at the school. We are very happy with education that our children are getting here. I would advise anybody to come and visit the campuses to truly get a feel for the school and what BIS can offer their child," remarked one expat living in Ho Chi Minh City with children attending British International School.

"The school is a good school (at the moment probably the best in HCMC). Nevertheless, as a BIS parent you must be willing to provide extra time/support for your child(ren) in order to sustain your child's learning so that the transition to your home country/new country is assured," said one expat in Ho Chi Minh City with children at British International School, Vietnam.

"I would certainly make an appointment for a private tour on campus, talk with the principal and maybe some of the administration staff to get a first-hand impression of the school. The campus is so lovely that you really have to see it with your own eyes. Everytime I'm on campus I feel like being in a different world, and not in buzzing Ho Chi Minh City," remarked one parent with kids at European International School Ho Chi Minh City (EIS) in Ho Chi Minh City.

"The cost of living in Vietnam is relatively low compared to many other countries. Basic groceries, transportation, and utilities are generally inexpensive while rent and dining costs are somewhat higher. Restaurant prices, along with the cost of services such as haircuts and massages, are also quite reasonable. Generally speaking, the cost of living in Vietnam is significantly lower than that of Western nations," remarked one expat who made the move to Vietnam.

"The cost of living in Vietnam is generally considered to be very affordable in comparison to other parts of the world. Rent, transportation and groceries are all costs that are significantly lower than many other countries. The cost of living tends to be higher in larger cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City than in smaller towns and cities, where living costs are cheaper. Rent for a nice 1 bedroom apartment can range anywhere from $200-$400 per month, and for a 2 bedroom, rent starts at about $350 and goes up from there. Eating out in moderately priced restaurants in Vietnam usually means you can get a decent dinner for around $4 - $7 USD. In smaller towns, the cost may be slightly less," commented one expat living in Vietnam.

"In Vietnam, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, beaches, and sports complexes. Parks are a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a variety of activities such as walking, jogging, and picnicking. Beaches are also a popular destination, with many offering a variety of water sports such as swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Sports complexes are also popular, offering a variety of activities such as basketball, tennis, and badminton. Additionally, many cities in Vietnam offer a variety of cultural activities, such as traditional dance performances, music festivals, and art exhibitions," said one expat.

"The weather in Vietnam is generally hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to the mid-30s Celsius throughout the year. The rainy season typically runs from May to October, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in the south. The dry season is from November to April, with the coolest temperatures occurring in the northern mountains," wrote one expat living in Vietnam.

"One of the most popular restaurants in Vietnam is Quan An Ngon in Ho Chi Minh City. Located in the heart of the city, this restaurant offers a wide variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes, as well as some international favorites. The restaurant is known for its fresh ingredients and flavorful dishes, and the atmosphere is lively and welcoming. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g293925-d717093-Reviews-Quan_An_Ngon-Ho_Chi_Minh_City.html Another popular restaurant in Vietnam is The Refinery in Hanoi. This restaurant offers a unique fusion of Vietnamese and Western cuisine, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere is modern and chic, and the menu features a variety of dishes from both cultures. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g293924-d717094-Reviews-The_Refinery-Hanoi.html Finally, the Cuc Gach Quan restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. This restaurant serves traditional Vietnamese dishes in a cozy, home-style atmosphere. The menu features a variety of dishes, from classic noodle soups to grilled meats and seafood. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g293925-d717095-Reviews-Cuc_Gach_Quan-Ho_Chi_Minh_City.html," said one expat living in Vietnam.

"People living in Vietnam typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, convenience stores, and specialty stores. Many people also shop online for groceries and other items. Additionally, street vendors are a popular option for purchasing fresh produce and other items," said one expat living in Vietnam.

"To enter Vietnam, foreign visitors must apply for a visa prior to their travel. Citizens from certain countries can apply for a visa on arrival, while other nationalities must apply in advance for a visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in their country of origin. To apply for a visa, travelers must submit the appropriate application form, valid passport, copies of their passport and a passport photo, and the necessary visa fee. To apply for residency in Vietnam, foreign nationals must submit a valid passport, a valid visa, proof of medical insurance, a medical certificate, notarized copies of educational documents, valid return flight tickets and proof of sufficient funds. Depending on the type of visa and residence permit, additional documents may be required. After the necessary documents are submitted and approved, the foreign national can receive a residency card that is valid for one year," wrote one expat living in Vietnam.

"Cigna is expensive for us simply, because when we go to the USA we are not covered. So, we get a travel insurance and pay out of pocket for most heavy expenses. For example, I had to be hospitalized on a visit home and I didn't even reach the 5K deductible. It's frustrating. I get reimbursed for other expenses that I incur for example, dental emergencies etc. I am reconsidering how to deal with this situation in the next year," commented one expat who moved to Da Nang.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Vietnam can be expensive, depending on the type of care and coverage needed. Private healthcare is generally more expensive than public healthcare, and health insurance premiums can vary depending on the type of coverage and the provider. In general, healthcare costs in Vietnam are lower than in many other countries, but they can still be a significant expense for many people," said one expat.