Living in Vietnam vs. Traveling in Vietnam – What You Need to Know in 2025

Vietnam: A Fascinating Journey into Southeast Asia and Indochina

Vietnam — at the heart of historic Indochina — continues to enchant foreigners, backpackers, and expats alike.
Whether cruising the mystical waters of Halong Bay (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), savoring vibrant Vietnamese food in street markets, or exploring the timeless pagodas across Central Vietnam, the country offers an extraordinary trip to Vietnam.

From Northern Vietnam’s cool mountains to South Vietnam’s vibrant beaches, every region tells a story of resilience, heritage, and hope.

1. Cost of Traveling vs. Cost of Living in Vietnam

Traveling to Vietnam: Affordable Adventures Await

• Accommodation:

  • Hostels from $5–$10 USD/night

  • Boutique hotels and even luxurious hotel spas in cities like Hanoi and Da Nang

• Transportation:

  • Affordable taxis and motorbikes in the city-centre

  • Local buses for cross-country trips

  • Easy flights to major hubs like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang

• Key attractions:

  • Cruise among limestone karsts at Halong

  • Watch traditional water puppet shows, a cherished art form

  • Stroll around the Saigon Opera House, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and lively rooftop cafés

• Visas:

  • Visa-on-arrival options for most nationalities

  • E-visa via consular services or Vietnamese embassies

Average travel budget: $800–$1,200 USD/month.

Living in Vietnam: A Rich and Affordable Experience

• Rent: $250–$700 USD for modern apartments

• Utilities: $30–$100 USD/month

• Healthcare: Private insurance ($50–$200 USD/month)

• Visa & Admin:

  • Managed through the consulate or Vietnamese government offices

  • Long-term stays governed by policies from the Socialist Republic of Vietnam

• Local living:

  • Daily rides along the Saigon River

  • Exploring bustling city markets like Ben Thanh

  • Integrating into daily life with Vietnamese people

Average expat budget: $800–$2,500 USD/month depending on the lifestyle.

Testimonial:

"Cruising across Halong Bay, tasting authentic Vietnamese food, and watching a water puppet show were highlights of my trip to Vietnam."
— Julien, 29, traveler.

2. Lifestyle Quality: Adventure vs. Deep Cultural Connection

Traveler: Explore the Best of Vietnam

• Day-trips to marvel at imperial cities, ancient pagodas, and UNESCO sites

• Sampling local dishes, enjoying rooftop views, and exploring vibrant city-centres

• Short-stay visas, no long-term bureaucracy

Expat: A Journey of Integration

• Immersion in the deep-rooted history of the Vietnam War, the rise of the Communist Party, and the struggle of the Viet Minh during the Indochina War

• Living the dynamism of Vietnam's booming GDP and tech innovation scene

• Daily experiences rooted in Vietnamese culture — language, customs, business practices

Testimonial:

"From rooftop bars in Saigon to village festivals in Northern Vietnam, living in Vietnam taught me patience, respect, and resilience."
— Sophie, 34, expat.

3. Challenges of Living in Vietnam (and How to Overcome Them)

• Climate: Tropical weather, with typhoon seasons along the South China Sea

• Visa bureaucracy: Navigating complex consular processes

• Cultural differences: Respecting the deep historical pride tied to Vietnam’s independence and reunification

• Travel logistics:

  • Domestic flights via Vietnam Airlines

  • Scams targeting new arrivals (stay vigilant around touristy spots)

Historical Must-Sees for Context:

• Presidential Palace (now Reunification Palace) in Ho Chi Minh City

• Cu Chi Tunnels, a testament to Viet Cong ingenuity

• Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh in Hanoi

• Colonial vestiges of French Indochina visible in many landmarks

Testimonial:

"After understanding the legacies of the Vietnam War and the Indochina War, I learned to appreciate Vietnam’s unique resilience."
— Marc, 40, expat.

4. Top Places for Expats and Travelers

• Hanoi: Cultural heart of the North, with grand boulevards and historic sites

• Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City): Dynamic hub of business, nightlife, and historic French architecture

• Dalat: Mountain retreat with cooler climates and colonial charm

• Ha Long City: Gateway to Halong Bay cruises and limestone adventures

Testimonial:

"Living between the beaches of Da Nang and the pagodas of Hue made me fall in love with Central Vietnam’s slow life rhythm."
— Laura, 38, remote worker.

5. Conclusion: Vietnam – A Place to Visit or to Call Home?

Travel to Vietnam if you seek unforgettable experiences: rooftop sunsets, pagoda explorations, water puppet shows, and river cruises.
Live in Vietnam if you want to build a deeper connection with the Vietnamese people, explore the legacy of the Communist Party, and witness a rising economic power in Southeast Asia.

Ready to visit Vietnam or live your next adventure across Vietnam? Share your plans below!