1. Cost of living in Vietnam: A pleasant surprise
As soon as I arrived, I was struck by the difference in the cost of living compared to France. I had settled in Hanoi, where I rent a modern apartment in the Tay Ho district for around 500 euros per month. It is a popular area for expats, with a view of the lake and many trendy cafes. What really surprised me was the price of meals. I can eat a delicious "pho" for less than 2 euros, and an iced coffee costs only a few cents.
Even transportation is incredibly affordable. I mainly travel by Grab (the equivalent of Uber here), and each motorbike ride is usually less than 1 euro. I really feel like I can live comfortably without breaking the bank.
2. Finding accommodation: The best neighborhoods in Hanoi
For me, finding accommodation was not as complicated as I had feared. I live in Tay Ho, the favorite neighborhood of expats in Hanoi. It’s quiet, green, with a beautiful view of the lake. But I also considered neighborhoods like Ba Dinh or Hoan Kiem, which are more in the heart of the city, with local restaurants and markets on every corner.
What I liked about Tay Ho was the mix of expats and locals, which allowed me to meet people from all walks of life. Most of the apartments are furnished, so I just had to put down my suitcases.
3. Daily life: Immersing yourself in Vietnamese culture
Integration into Vietnamese life takes a little time, but it’s an incredibly enriching experience. The first obstacle, of course, is the language. At first, I didn’t speak a word of Vietnamese. Fortunately, the Vietnamese are very welcoming and patient, especially in big cities like Hanoi where English is relatively widespread. Little by little, I learned a few phrases, especially for ordering food or taking a taxi.
I also loved discovering the local cuisine. Every morning, I start my day with a bowl of "pho" in a small street restaurant, a unique experience. Vietnamese people often eat out, and it became a habit for me too. I quickly realized that the food here is not only delicious, but incredibly cheap.
4. Working in Vietnam: Opportunities and Challenges
As an expat, I chose to teach English, one of the most popular opportunities here. The market is booming, and schools are always looking for native teachers. I had to go through some administrative procedures to obtain my work visa, but once the paperwork was in order, everything went quite smoothly.
Working in Vietnam allowed me to learn more about the local work culture, which is more relaxed than what I was used to. The hours are flexible, and work life is frequently punctuated by breaks for Vietnamese coffee or snacks.
5. Getting Medical Care in Vietnam: Accessible Medicine
The health system in Vietnam surprised me with its quality, especially in the big cities. When I had a mild bout of flu, I went to an international clinic in Hanoi where the staff spoke English and took care of me quickly. The healthcare is affordable, but I took out international health insurance as a precaution, as some procedures can be expensive.
I definitely recommend having good insurance, especially if you travel around the country often, as medical infrastructure can be less developed outside of the big cities.
6. Getting around Vietnam: Daily scooter adventure
The first few days, I was impressed (and a little scared) by the Vietnamese traffic, especially the scooters that weave everywhere. I finally decided to give it a go and bought a second-hand scooter. Driving in Hanoi is an adventure in itself. There are no real set rules, but you eventually get used to the organized chaos.
For longer distances, I tried night buses and trains, which are economical options for traveling around the country. I have a fond memory of my train ride to Sapa, with its breathtaking rice paddy landscapes.
7. Expat Community and Leisure: A Support Network
One of the best things about living in Vietnam is the expat community. I quickly joined several Facebook groups and local associations that organize events, such as quiz nights, Vietnamese cooking classes or hiking in the northern mountains.
On weekends, I enjoy Hanoi’s nightlife, with its lively bars and live music shows. The Vietnamese also love to party, and it’s not uncommon to spend the night chatting over a glass of bia hoi, the local beer.
8. Challenges of Living in Vietnam: Language Barriers and Adaptation
Of course, it’s not always easy. The language barrier remains a constant challenge, especially outside the big cities where few people speak English. I also had to adapt to the climate, particularly the oppressive humidity of the summer months.
The traffic is chaotic, and it took me a while to get used to it. Traffic jams are frequent, and pollution in big cities can be a problem. But with time, you learn to deal with it and appreciate the positive aspects of this daily life so different from the one I knew in France.
Conclusion
Living in Vietnam was a real turning point in my life. It is a country full of contrasts, with a rich history and incredible landscapes. The challenges are there, but the rewards are well worth it. If you have the opportunity to make this leap, do not hesitate for a second. It is an adventure you will never forget.