What do I need to know before moving to Vietnam?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Vietnam, they said...
"Choose to bring things that make you happy and leave the rest in storage. Buy everything you need in Hanoi or on trips through Bangkok or Hong Kong. Make good friends with your household helper, who always knows where to find what you seek and will often get it for you. Carefully consider a house in terms of traffic, play space for children, industrial noise and air pollution. Look for trees, garden, park nearby. If there is mildew on the walls, it will probably return. Can you avoid using a car every time you want to pick up something at the shop? How easy will it be for guests to find your house? Ask at the local international school for good neighborhoods to begin your search," commented one expat who made the move to Hanoi, Vietnam.
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"Understand the culture and language. Vietnam is a country with deeply embedded cultural roots and an ancient language. Familiarize yourself with the local customs in order to avoid cultural misunderstandings. Be prepared to deal with bureaucracy. The bureaucracy and paperwork in Vietnam can be complex, so be prepared and allow enough time for the process. Research accommodation options. Living costs in Vietnam are relatively low, but you should research and budget for rental accommodation thoroughly. Be aware of the harsh climate and weather. Vietnam is hot and humid for the most part, and suffers from occasional typhoons and flooding. Prepare for hot and damp weather and know what to do in case of emergencies. Be aware of health risks. Vietnam is prone to mosquito-borne illnesses, such as malaria and dengue fever. Make sure to take any necessary precautions and remain vigilant when it comes to keeping yourself healthy. Familiarize yourself with the public transport system. The public transport system in Vietnam is relatively reliable and affordable, so learn about bus and train timetables beforehand to be able to get around with ease," remarked another expat in Vietnam.
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Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Vietnam?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Vietnam?
- Will I be able to find a job in Vietnam?
- What is life like in Vietnam?
- What do expats in Vietnam appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Vietnam?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Vietnam accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Vietnam like?
- What are healthcare services like in Vietnam?
- What are medical services in Vietnam like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Vietnam?
- What are emergency services like in Vietnam?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Vietnam?
- How are local medical facilities in Vietnam?
- As a foreigner living in Vietnam, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do I need to know before moving to Vietnam?
If you live in Vietnam, newcomers to Vietnam would love to hear your answer to this question.
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.