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Chelsea Gallagher

Chelsea Gallagher

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Canadian expat in Vietnam

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Canadian

Lives in Ho Chi Minh City

Registration: 18 June 2024

Articles written by Chelsea Gallagher

Visas for Vietnam
Visas for Vietnam

If you are only planning on having a short stay in Vietnam, you can apply online for a tourist visa, preferably at least one month before the scheduled date of departure. Your visa will be valid for the length of stay indicated on the application form; typically, this will range from 1-3 months.

19 November 2023
Traveling to Vietnam
Traveling to Vietnam

Many citizens from across the globe require visas to enter Vietnam, so it is strongly advised to have everything organized before your flight. 

19 November 2023
Getting around in Vietnam
Getting around in Vietnam

During your stay in Vietnam, you will be moving around, and often, the sidewalks in rush hour become extensions of the road. If you are walking with headphones, remember to check over your shoulder to avoid an accident or listen for a warning honk! Whether you are going to work, meeting friends for a drink, or exploring a new district, there are various means of transportation in the country. 

19 November 2023
Customs in Vietnam
Customs in Vietnam

If you are part of the 150 countries eligible for visa on arrival and do not require a valid visa to enter Vietnam, you will be handed a white and blue duplicate arrival-departure form. 

19 November 2023
Leisure in Vietnam
Leisure in Vietnam

If you are looking for an affordable destination with beautiful landscapes, culture, and delicious cuisine, Vietnam should be on your radar. With activities ranging from visiting its World Heritage-listed sites, natural parks, and beautiful beaches to traditional locations preserving traces of the past, Vietnam caters to every type of traveler. Forge your path and find adventure, all while surrounded by a vibrant history in Southeast Asia.

19 November 2023
Sports in Vietnam
Sports in Vietnam

A wide range of sports and recreational activities are available to locals and expatriates in Vietnam. Gyms, playgrounds, and recreational grounds are plentiful in major cities. Mountain biking, trekking, golf, and yoga are commonplace and cater to a wide range of skill level.

19 November 2023
The Vietnamese cuisine
The Vietnamese cuisine

If you are traveling to Vietnam, sampling all the delicious cuisine should be a top priority. Read on to discover what to expect and how to navigate dietary restrictions while abroad.

19 November 2023
Internships in Vietnam
Internships in Vietnam

Interning can be a wonderful eye-opening way to experience a new country, culture, and work climate in your profession of choice. Internships are on the rise in Vietnam, and there are a number of opportunities for young people to get their foot in the door of this exciting and rapidly growing country.

19 November 2023
Buying property in Vietnam
Buying property in Vietnam

If you are planning on staying in Vietnam for a significant amount of time, buying a condo or getting involved in a commercial investment might be worthwhile. In this article, we are going to share several pieces of important and up-to-date information on the process of purchasing property in Vietnam.

19 November 2023
Moving to Vietnam with your pet
Moving to Vietnam with your pet

If you are planning to move to Vietnam with a pet, there are a number of formalities that have to be completed prior to your departure as well as on your arrival in Vietnam. Key areas to focus on are your pet's medical records and your passport.

19 November 2023
Accommodation in Vietnam
Accommodation in Vietnam

If you're jetting off to Asia's beloved S-shaped nation, take care of booking the best accommodation before you arrive. This resplendent country offers an abundance of listings and styles of homes. We have dropped in some useful tips and guidelines to ensure you have a safe and inclusive experience in your new abode.

19 November 2023
Finding a job in Hanoi
Finding a job in Hanoi

With Vietnam's new visa regulations, you will need to secure a job before entering the country. Opportunities to start as a tourist are fleeting and will cause unnecessary stress. Keep in mind that if you arrive on an employment contract and want to terminate early, your employer can cancel your visa and residence permit. The good news is that networking is your best bet to switch careers or find opportunities, meaning what you put into your career in Vietnam is what you will get out of it. 

19 November 2023
Hanoi's labor market
Hanoi's labor market

Hanoi's services sector is growing exponentially, and foreign trade is at an all-time high. Agriculture has always been an essential part of the local economy, especially as Vietnam is one of the biggest rice exporters in the world. Thanks to improving technologies, as well as other entities, there is a new range of opportunities for the Hanoi expat community, making finding a job in Hanoi undoubtedly much easier compared to similar cities around the world.

19 November 2023
The food scene in Hanoi
The food scene in Hanoi

A foodie's utopia, Hanoi is not only the capital of Vietnam but also a fierce contender for the best cuisine in the country. Decorated with food vendors, hole-in-the-wall restaurants, and upmarket dining choices, Hanoi will make you feel like food royalty. While your tastebuds are singing, your wallet doesn't need to worry. These dishes are perfect for the backpacker's budget, but the concoction of unique flavors will leave you craving for more.

19 November 2023
The work culture in Hanoi
The work culture in Hanoi

Working in Hanoi understandably brings up a lot of questions. Thoughts like, what is the work culture like? Or, what is the work-life balance expectation? Even more importantly, how do I immerse myself without embarrassing myself? In reality, things are nowhere near as bad as your nerves may be projecting. If you do not speak Vietnamese, rest assured your employers will speak English during work-related discussions or social gatherings. Colleagues are usually eager to help you learn Vietnamese and will enthusiastically help you try new foods.

19 November 2023
Getting around Hanoi
Getting around Hanoi

Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam, and its roads accommodate more than a million vehicles. A glance down at the street from any high-rise building will stun you with a canal system of motorbikes and a large number of buses, cars, and bicycles in between. Although many regard Hanoi as one of the most chaotic traffic systems in the world, it somehow manages to work. But amidst all of this vehicular anarchy, how do you plan to get around during your stay in this fast-moving capital?

19 November 2023
Adjusting to the local culture in Hanoi
Adjusting to the local culture in Hanoi

Moving to a new city abroad can be a daunting experience. Being thrown in the deep end without any shock resistance can make the jet lag seem even more intense. New sounds can often be as fierce, especially when they're roosters, temple bells, or vendors with recording devices, and that's before you tackle the language barrier! Strange smells and unusual dishes might make the stomach question its own appetite, but fear not. Expat.com is here to help you adjust to your new life in Hanoi!

17 November 2023
Hanoi's networking etiquette
Hanoi's networking etiquette

Whenever you venture to a new country and culture, it's great to do some background research on etiquette. Vietnamese are very welcoming and forgiving, but you don't want to embarrass yourself or potentially alienate new friends by accident.  

17 November 2023
Things to in Hanoi alone, with your partner or with friends
Things to in Hanoi alone, with your partner or with friends

At first glance, the Hanoi Old Quarter is overwhelming. A pool of bodies, young and old, loud music, and people cheering beers, mixed with the aromas of street food and the bright lights of scooters parked everywhere. If you are exploring alone or with your family, the first look may cause you to stumble and run back to the safety of your hotel. 

17 November 2023
Buying property in Hanoi
Buying property in Hanoi

With its economy on the rise and a plethora of exciting and innovative projects in the pipeline, Hanoi should be on any foreign investor's radar. Vietnam's capital city's middle class has been rapidly growing over the past few years, and the housing market is steadily accelerating. Transportation upgrades and various infrastructure projects have seen a myriad of foreign investments since 2015, confirming that Hanoi is not to be underestimated.

17 November 2023
The most popular neighbourhoods in Hanoi
The most popular neighbourhoods in Hanoi

Formerly known as Thang Long, Vietnam's present capital city was renamed Hanoi in 1831. This enchanting, traditional city is bounteous with juxtapositions and tends to be either loved or hated by its many visitors. Old meet new in many areas, thanks to a spellbinding mixture of colonialist architecture and modern innovations. The pace of life seems to approach Mach 2 at times, but on the flip side, every street is lined with greenery and garnished with a medley of locals enjoying tea and sidewalk chess matches.  

17 November 2023
Developing your professional network in Hanoi
Developing your professional network in Hanoi

Moving to a new city is daunting, and starting from scratch with your professional network can be exceptionally frustrating. In Vietnam, there are several ways to develop a professional network and meet an assortment of connections that could potentially open new doors for you in the future while living in Hanoi.

17 November 2023
Universities in Hanoi
Universities in Hanoi

As a city that is economically growing at a monumental rate, Hanoi is well endowed with educational institutions. In 2022, Vietnam ranked 59th in the world for education and is beginning to gain more attention for its secondary education programs. Hanoi attracts thousands of international students every year, and they prefer to live in districts like Dong Da and Hai Ba Trung, which are relatively close to the city center.

17 November 2023
Things to do on weekdays in Hanoi
Things to do on weekdays in Hanoi

Hanoi has an attraction to suit every taste and budget. From bustling marketplaces to beautiful murals, Hanoi qualifies as both a shopper's paradise and a cultural kaleidoscope. Keep reading to find out what's in store within this intriguing city!

17 November 2023
Student life in Hanoi
Student life in Hanoi

Enrolling at university is an exciting milestone in any young adult's life. For many prospective students, it combines the whirlwind of emotion from leaving home to managing finances and household chores independently. Student life in Hanoi, on average, is comfortable, social, and affordable. The city is easy to move around on public transportation or drive-sharing apps, plus there are a variety of student discounts to enjoy throughout Hanoi's many restaurants, bars, and entertainment complexes.

17 November 2023
Sports activities in Hanoi
Sports activities in Hanoi

We know there's a lot of attention on the drinking culture in Hanoi, but what about the options for a healthy lifestyle? In fact, Hanoians are no strangers to exercise. They love a good workout, and for many, this is an integral part of everyday life. A quick drive around the city before sunrise will deliver you an assortment of aerobics, popular sports, casual runners, cyclists, and everything in between. So, if you are searching for the best local options for sports, read on!

17 November 2023
Developing your social circle in Hanoi
Developing your social circle in Hanoi

Moving to Hanoi can be a challenging venture. After integrating into the culture and trying to understand the labyrinth of traffic, you can't ask for directions due to a new language barrier - one of the most daunting parts of moving abroad is making new friends. As one gets older, this can become a little trickier but fear not. Expat.com is well equipped with tips and tricks, all designed to make you feel as secure as possible within days of arriving.

17 November 2023
Setting up a business in Vietnam
Setting up a business in Vietnam

Foreign entrepreneurs from across the globe have been landing across Asia for decades. In August, Harvard ranked Vietnam as one of the top six fastest-growing nations in terms of its economy in 2023. Stop watching from a distance and learn how to set up a business in Vietnam.

12 November 2023
Getting married in Vietnam
Getting married in Vietnam

Have you met that perfect someone who you want to spend the rest of your life with? Luckily, getting married in Vietnam is feasible and achievable. The stipulations for a legal marriage remain fairly consistent, as with any matters of this nature, the best thing you can do is contact your embassy or consulate in Vietnam. While there are too many to list here, we have published a number of important addresses at the end of this post.

12 November 2023
Moving to Vietnam with your family
Moving to Vietnam with your family

If you are moving to Vietnam with young children, you might be looking for a safe and nurturing place to look after them whilst you are at work. Some expats prefer to look for a nanny, while others prefer to entrust their children to a nursery or kindergarten.

12 November 2023
Dating In Vietnam
Dating In Vietnam

If you're considering moving to Hanoi, or Ho Chi Minh City, the dating scene may be of interest to you. Although the 21st century has provided us with dozens of innovative new ways to meet people, the old-fashioned methods are still just as relevant. Therefore, we will discuss the entire spectrum of dating in Vietnam throughout this article.

12 November 2023
The tax system in Vietnam
The tax system in Vietnam

Before you move to Vietnam, it is prudent to get up to speed on local tax laws. As with any country, this is likely to be the most tiresome and confusing part of the transition. However, such an important step should not be overlooked for any reason whatsoever.

12 November 2023
Opening a bank account in Vietnam
Opening a bank account in Vietnam

If you have decided to settle in Vietnam, you will definitely need to open a bank account. Not only will this be the easiest way for your salary to be deposited, but you can also pay directly through QR codes at many shops or restaurants. While you are able to open a bank account as an expat in Vietnam, there are a couple of things you need to know first. 

12 November 2023
The healthcare system in Vietnam
The healthcare system in Vietnam

Moving to Vietnam is going to present you with an abundance of challenges, from the logistical aspect to customs and traditions to finding a school for your children, to setting up bank accounts. There are dozens of hurdles to negotiate. Healthcare in Vietnam is one of the assortments of obstacles that must be negotiated successfully to ensure your stay is as pleasant as possible. 

12 November 2023
Accidents and emergencies in Vietnam
Accidents and emergencies in Vietnam

If you're thinking about moving to Vietnam, may we be the first to congratulate you on this splendid decision! Vietnam is a country full of resplendence, character, and charm. The scenery is truly mind-blowing, the gastronomy will leave you beyond satisfied, and the people are warm and welcoming. Vietnam is a true gem of Southeast Asia and will offer you kindness at every corner.

12 November 2023
Health insurance in Vietnam
Health insurance in Vietnam

If you're planning to travel to Vietnam or intend to stay in the country long term, then it would be wise to research the best health insurance options. Although Vietnam is a beautiful country for countless reasons, there are different bacteria that your body will not be able to fight or potential motorcycle accidents. Therefore, purchasing health insurance in Vietnam should be one of your top priorities.

12 November 2023
Pregnancy in Vietnam
Pregnancy in Vietnam

As an expat couple or an expat in a relationship with a Vietnamese person, the notion of having children has probably been a point of discussion. If you're already halfway there, then allow us to be among the first to congratulate you. Moreover, get used to this: the elderly and children are highly regarded in Vietnam. Therefore, pregnancy is a huge topic of conversation and praise here. Naturally, parents of both parties will be overjoyed nine times out of ten. However, you're probably going to receive attention from strangers, too.

12 November 2023
Working in Vietnam as a digital nomad
Working in Vietnam as a digital nomad

Vietnam is emerging as a new popular destination for digital nomads and downshifters. As the prices in most Asian countries are slowly rising, Vietnam remains in the favourable low-cost niche while offering all the needed facilities for working remotely.

07 June 2022
Working in Hanoi
Working in Hanoi

The traditional capital of Vietnam is quickly becoming a professional's paradise. Attracting over 20,000 expats annually, there is no shortage of new connections in Hanoi, both social and professional, and the opportunity to create and develop a thriving business for oneself. The startup and tech scenes are gently accelerating, paving the way for a more modern, innovative Hanoi. Thanks to the superb variety of jobs now open to foreigners here, finding a job in Hanoi has never been easier. 

24 February 2022
Work in Hai Phong
Work in Hai Phong

Might you be looking for a job in Hai Phong? The northern city offers a number of job opportunities in various sectors.

24 February 2022
Accommodation in Hanoi
Accommodation in Hanoi

Historic, beautiful, and full of charm. Phrases like this are all synonymous with the wonderful city of Hanoi. As Vietnam's capital since the mid-twentieth century, Hanoi has seen dozens of highs and lows. Nonetheless, the 21st century is proving to be incredibly prosperous for Vietnam's economy and the capital city is seeing the lion's share of that action.

23 February 2022
Discovering Hanoi
Discovering Hanoi

Characterized by rivers of motorbikes and waves of roaring horns, Vietnam's capital city promises an unparalleled charm and intrigue within moments of arriving. A collage of conical hats (known as Non-La), food hawkers, and motorbikes cluttered with almost anything imaginable, paint a remarkable picture of Hanoi, its culture and its truly magical aura. A welcome mat of helpful locals and tantalizing smells can be expected within moments of stepping outside the airport. However, this is just the beginning of a mysterious and beautiful realm of Southeast Asia.

18 February 2022
Accommodation in Nha Trang
Accommodation in Nha Trang

The city of Nha Trang has seen a rise in the development of various types of accommodation in recent years. Are you thinking of finding accommodation in the coastal city?

16 February 2022
Accommodation in Hai Phong
Accommodation in Hai Phong

Hai Phong's real estate market has been developing rapidly in recent years. Expats from around the world have settled in Hai Phong, in the northeast of Vietnam. This city has been attracting thousands of foreigners wishing to invest in property as well as an array of related projects. Through the sprouting of modern houses, apartments, and villas, the real estate market has contributed greatly towards the economic growth of this city.

16 February 2022
Ho Chi Minh City's labour market
Ho Chi Minh City's labour market

In recent years, Vietnam has become a hub for expats looking to teach English due to the high demand for teachers. And while people may often assume the primary jobs available in Ho Chi Minh City are within the education sector, that isnt necessarily the case. While teaching ESL is undoubtedly a popular choice among expats of all ages, it is surprisingly not at the top of the market.

13 July 2019
Ho Chi Minh City's networking etiquette
Ho Chi Minh City's networking etiquette

Moving to a new city and country can be a daunting and overwhelming challenge. Pair this with adapting to an entirely foreign business and cultural environment, and it can feel downright gruelling. Although there are plenty of networking opportunities for expats relocating to Ho Chi Minh City, they may find themselves wondering how to carry themselves in professional networking situations.

13 July 2019
Things to do in Ho Chi Ming City alone or with friends or family
Things to do in Ho Chi Ming City alone or with friends or family

Theres never a shortage of things to do within Ho Chi Minh City. Whether expats are planning on moving here solo, with a partner or their family, the buzzing city has plenty of happenings on a regular basis that caters to just about anyone.

13 July 2019
Leisure activities in Ho Chi Minh City
Leisure activities in Ho Chi Minh City

One of the most interesting aspects of living in Ho Chi Minh City is the fact that theres never a shortage of activities to do on weekdays or weekends. There's so much to do here in fact, that it can be challenging to say no out of fear of missing out. No matter the time of day, some unique event or exciting gathering will be taking place throughout town. Here are a few spots in the city where expats can find things to do that might cater to their interests.

13 July 2019
The work culture in Ho Chi Minh City
The work culture in Ho Chi Minh City

One of the most unique struggles some expats find with moving abroad is adapting to their new country's work environment and culture. While some may not find it a hard time transitioning into the foreign company culture, its not always a streamlined process. There are a few aspects regarding the work environment in Ho Chi Minh City that expats should be aware of prior to their big move.

13 July 2019
Universities in Ho Chi Minh City
Universities in Ho Chi Minh City

Although people may not be able to tell upon first glance, Ho Chi Minh City is home to more than 80 universities and colleges. Despite the fact there are so many, there are a few top contenders in town - most of them catering to those interested in working within the technology and science industries.

13 July 2019