BLACK Expat EXPOSES the TRUTH About Living in VIETNAM! 🇻🇳

About this Video

• Video Title: BLACK Expat EXPOSES the TRUTH About Living in VIETNAM! 🇻🇳
• Channel: Shu
• Speakers: Ryan Marquez, Shu (Interviewer)
• Duration: 00:29:39

Introduction

This video features an interview with Ryan Marquez, a Black American expat who has lived in Vietnam for six years. The interview explores Ryan's experiences, including initial impressions, cultural adjustments, challenges and rewards of living in Vietnam as a Black man, and comparisons to life in the US.

Key Takeaways

• Initial Impressions and Reasons for Moving: Ryan's initial trip to Vietnam involved unexpected negative events, yet he was ultimately drawn to the country's vibrant culture and decided to make it his permanent home after experiencing difficulties in his military career in Korea.
• Changes in Ho Chi Minh City: Ryan notes significant changes in Ho Chi Minh City before and after COVID-19, with a shift from a party city to a more regulated and Westernized environment.
• Impact of Military Background: Ryan's military experience significantly influenced his ability to adapt to life in Vietnam, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and resilience in navigating unfamiliar situations. He believes that military training is beneficial for anyone looking to live abroad.
• Experiences as a Black Expat: While Ryan experienced some minor negative interactions initially, he largely attributes these to the novelty of seeing a Black person in Vietnam rather than outright racism. His fluency in Vietnamese significantly improved his interactions and fostered greater respect.
• Misconceptions about Vietnam: Ryan challenges the misconception that expats automatically become wealthy in Vietnam. He highlights the need for hard work and adaptability, noting the presence of wealthy Vietnamese individuals. He also points out the relative safety of Vietnam, contrasting it with perceptions of danger often portrayed in media.
• Advice for Black Expats: Ryan advises black expats to approach life in Vietnam with an open mind, highlighting opportunities to demonstrate unity beyond the divisions often presented in media. Learning Vietnamese is crucial for positive interactions and independence.