He Sold Everything in Hawaii for Life in Vietnam

About this video

• Video Title: He Sold Everything in Hawaii for Life in Vietnam
• Channel: The Cost of Living Abroad
• Speakers: Evan, Corey
• Duration: 00:32:27

Overview

This video features a conversation between Evan and Corey, who shares his experience of selling everything in Hawaii to move to Vietnam. They discuss the motivations behind his big leap, the financial realities of living in Hawaii versus Vietnam, his career background, and his initial culture shock upon arriving in Vietnam. Corey also shares insights into finding accommodation, navigating the local culture, and his future plans for exploring Vietnam.

Key takeaways

• Motivation for Moving: Corey felt that Hawaii was too cramped and lacked job opportunities, leading him to seek a significant change and culture shock by moving to Vietnam.
• Financial Shift: The cost of living in Hawaii was a major factor; Corey spent $1500-$2000 a month and saved $2000, but in Da Nang, Vietnam, he now spends under $1000 a month, including rent, affording him more freedom.
• Career Disillusionment: Despite having a degree in electrical engineering and a government job, Corey felt his work was unfulfilling and not at the cutting edge of technology.
• Impact of YouTube: A viral YouTube video about the cost of living in Da Nang inspired Corey and showed him that living abroad was a tangible possibility.
• Navigating Vietnam: Initial concerns about safety and language barriers were alleviated by connecting with the expat community online and realizing Vietnam is a safe country with a welcoming expat network.
• Accommodation: Finding an apartment in Da Nang was surprisingly easy and affordable, with Corey securing a spacious studio near the beach for around $200 USD a month.
• Cultural Adjustment: Adjusting to the traffic and noise in Vietnam was a significant part of the culture shock, but Corey found that with precautions, it became manageable.
• Social Life and Community: It's easy to meet people in Da Nang through various social activities and expat groups, though the transient nature of the expat community means friendships can be short-lived.
• Language Learning: Corey is actively learning Vietnamese and finds it challenging but rewarding, noting the difference between Northern and Southern accents and the appreciation locals show for the effort.
• Future Outlook: Corey is excited about exploring more of Vietnam, continuing his language studies, and experiencing personal growth, which he felt was limited by the high cost of living and financial pressures in Hawaii.