This video documents David's return to Los Angeles after 18 months of traveling as a digital nomad. He discusses the "reverse culture shock" he experienced, focusing on the differences in cost of living, walkability, and the perception of brands between LA and other cities he visited (Korea, Vietnam, Singapore, Tokyo).
High Cost of Living in LA: The price of everyday items and services in LA is significantly higher than in other cities David visited, impacting even simple meals. This was a major culture shock.
Lack of Walkability in LA: LA's lack of walkability hinders community building and spontaneous social interactions. David contrasts this with the walkability of cities like Da Nang, where he can easily meet friends and explore the neighborhood.
Differing Brand Perceptions: David highlights the contrasting perceptions of brands in different locations. In Korea, brands are paramount; in Vietnam, they hold less significance. He uses his purchase of an inexpensive, fake Goyard wallet in Vietnam as an example of this difference.
Nomad Social App: David promotes his app, Nomad Social, designed to facilitate spontaneous meetups with friends in various locations, addressing the challenges of connecting with people while traveling or living abroad.
David gives several examples of pricing discrepancies. A breakfast of bacon and eggs cost him and Kim $30 each in LA, a price his mother now considers normal. Another meal, consisting of biscuits and gravy, corn beef hash, and a shared cup of coffee, totaled $60. He also mentions that simply sitting somewhere for coffee in LA costs $7-$10, often with additional parking fees. In contrast, a $10 meal in Vietnam costs exactly $10, with no added tax or tip.
