I’ve been trying to keep track of some of the tips I’ve seen from expats who have already done the relocation to Vietnam. Sounds like stuff I’ll want to remember.
Some of it is basic stuff that you expect – like not drinking the water. But I never would have realized they ALSO meant not to even brush your teeth with it. Like… what??? Haha yeah I think I need to make sure that water stays far away from my mouth lol. I wouldn’t have thought to wash produce with bottled water also, but it does make sense. Now the rule about ice is interesting: ice with a hole in the middle is probably fine. The rest is not.
Apparently, gut health is a real factor also. Many people recommend taking a daily probiotic or multivitamin to help with that. Okay, that’s easy enough. If your gut feels weird, simplify with the B.R.A.T. diet for a few days. B.R.A.T. – Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast. But apparently, in Asia, they do fruit, rice, eggs, chicken. F.R.E.C.??? HAHAHA
Skin considerations? I don’t really do anything to take care of my skin except… shower. I’m not sure I’ll follow these tips but I guess they’re good to know. Avoid harsh soaps, moisturize immediately after showering. Air purifiers and dehumidifiers are good for breathing and overall comfort, but I didn’t know they could help with your skin too. I’m not making any promises on the moisturizing front – I honestly forget that lotion even exists.
Okay, now THIS one was genuinely funny. Always do a physical walkthrough – some landlords are known for sending the wrong pictures/videos, and “ocean view” could mean standing on the washing machine and leaning waaaaay out the window before seeing a hint of the sea. And never secure a long-term rental over the internet for these same reasons – you’ll arrive and literally end up in a different house/apartment than you saw. Yeah, I’m not making THAT mistake lol
But I think this is the gold – Vietnam can be way less expensive. UNLESS you are trying to live like a king. Then, you’re still spending the same you would have back home. I think we’ll be okay here – we aren’t trying to have an extravagant lifestyle, just a sustainable one. We’re pretty simple people and don’t need fancy things or name brands to be happy.
Learn a little of the language out of respect for the culture. I’m already doing that – I hired a Vietnamese tutor that lives IN Vietnam. I like that I’m already supporting the local economy, even if it’s only in a small way, and I also get to learn the language!! So far, two of my favorite phrases are:
(please repeat that)
(How do you say [word] in Vietnamese?)
I think those two will get a lot of use. Oh, and
(Say it a bit slower, please)
Pack light. The custom-tailored clothing shops in Hoi An are amazing and you can get pieces that are exactly what you want, made exactly to fit, for less than the off-the-shelf prices back home. Ok, THAT is a real good tip. I better go grab some inspo pics for the seamstresses!!
But before I do that… a little tip from me. I learned this the hard way so you won’t have to. Make sure to apply for your e-visa well in advance of any scheduled travel. Don’t wait until the last week. It typically takes 2-3 business days, but can take more. We’re over here on pins and needles waiting for the status to change, wondering at what point we need to freak out and hire a visa agent to help us get these expedited. And the website is a little finicky – try to have patience. Not being right up to the wire would probably help with that too….
Leave a Reply