An Expat Talks about Moving to Phan Thiet, Vietnam

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

Phan Thiet

Name three things that you wish you had brought and three you wish you had left at home.

Everything can be bought here so there is no need to take anything with you; unless quality clothes and shoes. I arrived 10 years ago with 1 suitcase of clothes and 5 kg chocolate.

William Russell
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What advice would you give someone preparing to move to your area about the actual move, choosing a neighborhood and finding a home?

Try to find an expat with experience and ask advice and assistance. One can not prepare himself for what he, or she, will find when you arrive in Vietnam. Knowing the right people, especially if you come here to conduct business, is very important! Vietnam is not waiting for expats to come and live here. 1 wrong gesture can break your dream without you realizing it; until you run out of cash.

What type of housing do you live in? Is this typical for most expats in your area?

I live in a 1 bedroom house in the back of my office, for the sake of security. this is not typical for expats, for a 2 bedroom house in this area you pay around 500 US$

How did you choose your neighborhood and find your home or apartment?

Pure business matter; we could lease an industrial land plot on good conditions; housing was more difficult because of regulations at that moment.

Are your housing costs higher or lower than they were in your home country? What is the average cost of housing there?

Housing cost is much lower than in Europe; my house rental (include my office) is 150 US$, electricity, water and gas and cable TV is around 150 US$; food cost me about 400 US$ / month. I don't eat meat a lot; price for pork for instance, doubled since 1 year ago. 1 night partying cost me around 100 US$ (Whiskey or cognac, soft drinks and tip for the waitress)