What do I need to know before moving to Vietnam?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Vietnam, they said...
"Vietnam's culture, Vietnamese food, learning simple Vietnamese words & phrases. Do not discuss culture and politics if you don't like anything. It's their country, being a foreigner do not become judge. People are lovely, smiling, happy and helping. Love them and they will love you more. Visit awesome tourist places and you will fall in love with Vietnam. They are the best people in the world," said another expat in Vietnam.
"Choose to bring things that make you happy and leave the rest in storage. Buy everything you need in Hanoi or on trips through Bangkok or Hong Kong. Make good friends with your household helper, who always knows where to find what you seek and will often get it for you. Carefully consider a house in terms of traffic, play space for children, industrial noise and air pollution. Look for trees, garden, park nearby. If there is mildew on the walls, it will probably return. Can you avoid using a car every time you want to pick up something at the shop? How easy will it be for guests to find your house? Ask at the local international school for good neighborhoods to begin your search," wrote a member who made the move to Hanoi, Vietnam.
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William RussellWilliam 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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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Vietnam?
- How do I meet people in Vietnam?
- What is life like in Vietnam?
- Is there a lot of crime in Vietnam?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Vietnam accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Vietnam like?
- Is the cost of living in Vietnam high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Vietnam?
- What are healthcare services like in Vietnam?
- Is the cost of living in Vietnam high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Vietnam?
- What is the weather like in Vietnam?
- Are there good restaurants in Vietnam?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Vietnam?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Vietnam?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Vietnam?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Vietnam?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Vietnam?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What do I need to know before moving to Vietnam?
If you live in Vietnam, newcomers to Vietnam would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.