20 BEST Reasons NOT To RETIRE in Vietnam

About this Video

• Video Title: 20 BEST Reasons NOT To RETIRE in Vietnam
• Channel: Evan Eh! 🇨🇦
• Speakers: Evan
• Duration: 00:15:50

Introduction

This video presents 20 reasons why retiring in Vietnam might not be ideal, offering an honest and unvarnished perspective on the potential drawbacks. The speaker, who is already early retired in Vietnam, aims to provide realistic advice, dispelling common misconceptions about retiring in the country.

Key Takeaways

1. Visa Difficulties: Obtaining a long-term retirement visa in Vietnam is challenging; workarounds exist but are complex.
2. Money Transfer Issues: Transferring money to Vietnam can be difficult; establishing a local bank account requires in-person procedures.
3. Expensive Western Food: Western food is significantly more expensive than local cuisine, impacting budget assumptions.
4. Language Barrier: Even with effort, mastering Vietnamese is difficult, creating communication challenges in daily life and healthcare.
5. Healthcare Access: While quality healthcare exists in major cities, access is limited in rural areas, and insurance can be expensive or problematic.
6. Dental Care Risks: Affordable dental care is available, but quality can vary significantly; vetting clinics thoroughly is crucial.
7. Intense Heat and Humidity: The climate is extremely hot and humid year-round, necessitating high air conditioning costs.
8. Bureaucracy: Extensive paperwork and complex processes are involved in many aspects of daily life and administration.
9. Chaotic Traffic: Traffic is dangerous and chaotic, especially for those unfamiliar with motorbikes dominating the roads.
10. Driving License Challenges: Obtaining a driving license can be complicated and requires navigating bureaucratic hurdles.
11. Pharmacies: While affordable, communication with pharmacists might require translation assistance.
12. Air Pollution: Air quality can be poor, especially in major cities, posing health risks for certain individuals.
13. Lack of Social Safety Net: Vietnam lacks a comprehensive social safety net; healthcare, housing, and pensions are primarily private.
14. Cultural Differences: The fast-paced, loud, and sometimes aggressive culture can be shocking for newcomers.
15. Loneliness: Without proactive efforts to build a community, expats may experience loneliness, especially in smaller towns.
16. Property Ownership: Owning property involves complexities; foreigners typically lease rather than own land.
17. Scams: Various scams target tourists and expats; awareness and caution are essential.
18. Internet Censorship: Internet access is subject to censorship; a VPN is recommended for accessing certain websites.
19. Taxes: Tax regulations are complex; seeking professional tax advice is strongly advised.
20. Scouting Trip: Before relocating, a scouting trip is recommended to experience life in Vietnam firsthand.