What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Ho Chi Minh City. They wrote...
"Expats in Ho Chi Minh City often find the language barrier to be one of the most challenging aspects of the local culture. Additionally, the city's traffic can be overwhelming for those who are not used to it. Additionally, the city's hot and humid climate can be difficult to adjust to. Furthermore, the local customs and etiquette can be confusing for those who are not familiar with them. Finally, the cost of living in Ho Chi Minh City can be higher than in other parts of Vietnam," wrote a member who made the move to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

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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.
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"We used to have a selection of dried herbs/spices/oils/vinegars etc for cooking at home, but very little of that exists here. We don't have time to go shopping for fresh herbs and fresh meat/fish every day like the locals do, so we eat out every night instead. It's cheaper but we miss cooking sometimes. Nothing seems to work in a logical way here. It's as if each organisation is developing in different directions and so unexpected things happen a lot. Vietnamese people can come across as very rude -but only if they don't speak english. They are embarassed to show themselves up. Otherwise, the locals who can speak english are very welcoming and will want you to stay in their country forever," explained one expat living in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
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What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Ho Chi Minh City, newcomers to Ho Chi Minh City would love to hear your answer to this question.