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 one 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," remarked 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.

"Depends on interests of course. UNIS (United nations international school) is out of town but offers courses to everyone, including language classes. L'Espace (French) Goethe (German) and other national organisations offer courses, exhibitions and events. Cinematheque offers "arthouse" films for members. Hanoi Opera House offers wonderful performances, very reasonably priced tickets so enjoy. for other information on events/organisations google Hanoi Infoshare and New Hanoian," wrote one member in Hanoi.

"Life of Vietnam is very young, vibrant. You will not find any negativity in like though it is their but they don't share personal problem with others. They love their family. Women are very hard working and run their family very smartly. Vietnamese females love their children very much and by all cost and sacrifice they let their children a happy life and good human being. They love foreigners and expect them to love Vietnam. They are very patriotic and love their culture and country. You will find all 365 days their national flag almost all houses. Bike riding, electricity and food is always awesome and affordable," commented one expat who made the move to 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," remarked one expat who made the move to 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 a member in Vung Tau.

"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," commented one expat who made the move to Vietnam.

"It is small, about 300 kids, but the great thing about it is the close sense of community and the school's open door policy. I would say that 90% of the teachers are excellent and well qualified. Once in a while there will be one or two that fall through the cracks. You just need to watch out for those. This is common in ALL schools anywhere!!," wrote an expat with kids at Hanoi International School in Hanoi.

"The British International School Hanoi (BIS Hanoi) is an international school offering a bilingual education providing an enhanced English National Curriculum and the Vietnamese National Curriculum among others. BIS Hanoi provides a holistic approach to education, with a strong focus on student wellbeing, collaborative learning and problem-solving skills. The United Nations International School in Hanoi (UNIS Hanoi) is a top international school providing world-class education for local and expatriate children. It offers an engaging environment, where students can identify and work on the issues that are most important to them. They are encouraged to work with one another, hone their skills and find unique solutions to real life difficulties. The International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC) is a bilingual school offering outstanding education in a culturally and linguistically diverse environment, with the option of studying a specialized curriculum in English, Vietnam, or both. Their teachers are passionate about empowering students to take an active role in their own development while they learn to collaborate with each other, use higher order thinking, and develop innovative skills. Founded in 2006, Hanoi Academy (HA) is a bilingual educational institution that focuses on offering an international school curriculum and cultivating a student-centered learning environment. At HA, parents and teachers work together to provide a stimulating and engaging experience, where students’ individualized paths of development are embraced and cherished. The Australian International School Ho Chi Minh City (AISHCMC) offers a stimulating and nurturing bilingual learning environment, in both English and Vietnamese. They are dedicated to preparing their students for tertiary education. Their innovative curriculum combines the best of VCE, IB and the NEC, offering personalised experiences for each student," commented one expat when asked about in Vietnam.

"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.

"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," said one expat in Ho Chi Minh City with children at European International School Ho Chi Minh City (EIS).

"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," remarked one parent with kids at Green Shoots International School in Hoi An.

"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 living in 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," remarked one expat 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," wrote one expat living in Vietnam.

"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," remarked one expat 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," commented 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," remarked 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," said an expat in Vietnam.

"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," remarked one expat 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," wrote one expat living in Da Nang.