Pros and Cons of Living in Vietnam
Last updated on Jan 09, 2024
Summary: The pros of living in Vietnam include its diverse culture, delicious cuisine, and affordable cost of living. Additionally, the country is home to many beautiful landscapes and beaches, making it a great place to explore and relax. On the other hand, the cons of living in Vietnam include the language barrier, as English is not widely spoken, and the lack of infrastructure in some areas. Additionally, the country is prone to natural disasters such as typhoons and floods, which can cause disruption and damage.
What are the pros and cons of living in Vietnam?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Vietnam responded:
"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the low cost of living in Vietnam, as well as the friendly locals and the delicious food. They also enjoy the country's stunning natural beauty, from the lush green rice paddies to the majestic mountains. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads find the language barrier and the lack of reliable internet access to be challenging. Additionally, the traffic and pollution in some of the larger cities can be overwhelming," explained one expat in Vietnam.
" If you want to be happy in Vietnam them live your life, be friendly, learn language, food and culture. That's it," said one expat in Vietnam.
"The air and surface waters are badly polluted and traffic rules are regularly not obeyed and weakly enforced. We have a very nice home with many friends. Our cost of living is low and our budget allows for travel. But for the first time in my life I cannot go home to America because of the risk of COVID-19. As an American, I should be able to be vaccinated. Since consular staff had that made available, it would not be difficult to extend that to expats. We have no advocate for this in the US government or in any of the NGOs like Democrats Abroad or this exchange," remarked one expat in Cao Lanh.
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What do expats in Vietnam appreciate most about the local culture?
"There's always something happening or something to see in Ho Chi Minh City that takes you by surprise. You don't know what you're going to see when you leave the apartment. A lot of entrepeneurs here, who have a positive attitude and we appreciate that alot, having moved from the doom and gloom and miserable attitude in Europe. Also we feel safe in the city and we're able to drive around independently on our scooter - something that can't be said of every city in south east asia," said one person in Ho Chi Minh City.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What do expats find most challenging?
"It's very difficult to be a Western woman living in Vietnam. The Vietnamese culture is very male-oriented, so it took several months before I was able to make any friends - & then it was just one friend. I felt lonely most of the time," remarked one expat in Bien Hoa.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Vietnam Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Vietnam
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Vietnam
- Best Places to Live in Vietnam
- Guide to Real Estate in Vietnam
- Pros & Cons of Living in Vietnam
- Cost of Living in Vietnam
- 10 Best Places to Live on the Coast in Vietnam
- Essential Guide to the Health System in Vietnam
- Guide to Residency in Vietnam
- 8 Healthcare & Health Insurance Tips for Expats in Vietnam
- 2025 Guide to Living in Vietnam
- Pros and Cons of Living in Vietnam 2025
- 2025 Guide to Moving to Vietnam