Stretching over 330,967 km² east of the Indochinese peninsula, Vietnam is one of the world's most attractive expat destinations, as much for retirees as for foreign professionals and students. A land of contrasts, what Vietnam has to offer goes beyond its natural landscapes interspersed with mountains, valleys, rice fields, its beautiful beaches, and peaceful sanctuaries. If you're looking for a change and for new opportunities, here are the reasons why you should move to Vietnam.
Opportunities for all
Vietnam is not only meant for retiring overseas, contrary to popular belief. The country can boast of its economic stability coupled with a series of ongoing reforms, so it can be the ideal place to work or launch your startup. With more than 93 million inhabitants, Vietnam has a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita of US $ 2,546 in 2018, and that is expected to reach US$ 18,000 by 2035. Today, there are investment opportunities in a range of fields including information and communication technologies, construction, telecommunications, education, and environmental protection. Given Vietnam's demographic growth, there's a rising demand for new products and services, especially in urban areas. While Vietnam is one of the top destinations for digital nomads, young professionals can also find gain some experience in many fields like services, tourism and hospitality, and volunteering. Also, there are many English teaching jobs for those having strong language skills.
Low cost of living
The low cost of living is one of the most appealing facts about Vietnam. Rents, charges, food transportation and leisure, are all very cheap, even though it all depends on your way of life. Obviously the big cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hai Phong and Hue tend to be slightly more expensive than others, but everything is possible once you have bagged an expat employment contract. In general, you can rent a flat in Ho Chi Minh City for US$ 400 on average. Your monthly travel expenses will amount to US$ 9 and even cheaper if you use traditional means of transportation. For dinner for two at the restaurant, count US$ 24 US, and if you're planning a night out with your colleagues, count US$ 1.04 only for a pint of beer. Expats relate that US$ 1,300, including rent, is enough for a whole month if you buy local produce, so you may enjoy a range of leisure activities, save some money, and even be able to afford a trip to neighbouring cities or countries.
A rich cultural experience
Besides its natural beauty and historical heritage, Vietnam has a great cultural and ethnic diversity that you will enjoy exploring during your stay. Did you know that Vietnam is home to nearly 75 ethnic groups speaking some fifty different languages? Also, English, French and even Russian are widespread. You also find many religions including Buddhism and Catholicism. Like anywhere else in the world, Christmas and the New Year are celebrated in Vietnam, but many traditional festivals like the Hung Kings Festival, Têt Trung Thu (Mid-Autumn Festival), the Lim Festival and the Perfume Pagoda Festival are the most awaited ones. The unique Vietnamese cuisine, for its part, varies from one region to another. It's usually more spicy and peppery in the centre, more colourful in the south, and less spicy but rich in the north. Phở, bun thang, nem and bánh chưng are some of the favourite Vietnamese dishes.
Tropical climate
For those who have had enough of harsh winters in their home country, Vietnam offers a tropical and temperate climate with the sun almost all year round. In general, the climate varies from one region to another, but you can expect temperatures ranging between 22 °C and 27 °C on average. In the North of Vietnam, the winter is cold, but summer remains hot and humid. When packing your suitcase, your boots, coat and woollen clothes – unless you're planning a trip to the North – won't be necessary. Remember to pack an umbrella with your Tshirts and shorts though!
It's a safe country
One of the world's safest countries, Vietnam is a favourite destination among female solo travellers. The crime rate in Vietnam is low compared to many Western countries. Also, you might be surprised to learn that in 2016 Vietnam ranked in the top 10 most peaceful countries in the world according to the Global Peace Index. Of course, you have to be careful like anywhere else, especially when you roam around like a tourist with your camera. However, there are fewer chances that your wallet gets stolen once you know how to blend in the local lifestyle. In general, expats are surprised by how warm and welcoming the locals can be. Most of those living in big cities are bilingual, so they will be more than happy to help you or show you around if you've lost your way. The locals are also curious, and that's one thing you will have to get used to.
There's a large expatriate community
As a fast developing country, Vietnam attracts visitors and expats in large numbers. Thanks to its openness to the rest of the world, there's reportedly a monthly 6% growth in the number of international arrivals. In past decades, a large https://www.expat.community has developed in most major Vietnamese cities. Today, most of them are cosmopolitan metropolises where you won't find it hard to adapt, regardless of the language you speak. Since the coffee culture is widespread in Vietnam, you will come across tourists, expats and digital nomads almost everywhere – which makes it easier to expand your social circle. Ho Chi Minh City has one of the country's largest and most welcoming https://www.expat.community with events and workshops happening all year round.
