The honest PROS and CONS about living in Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City)

About this video

• Video Title: The honest PROS and CONS about living in Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City)
• Channel: brokethehabit
• Speakers: None explicitly named, but the transcript is from a single narrator.
• Duration: 00:20:27

Overview

This video provides a candid look at the realities of living in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, beyond the typical tourist experience. The narrator, who has lived in Vietnam for over a year, shares insights into the significant downsides, such as severe air and noise pollution, and the challenges of adapting to the heat and humidity. They also discuss the benefits, including a lower cost of living for those earning USD, entrepreneurial opportunities, and the potential for a fulfilling life if one approaches it with purpose rather than on vacation mode. The video aims to offer a more realistic perspective for those considering moving to Vietnam.

Key takeaways

• Environmental Challenges: Significant air and noise pollution are major cons, with air quality often being poor, potentially leading to health issues like headaches and respiratory problems.
• Climate Adaptation: The intense heat and humidity can be difficult to adjust to, with the body taking around six months to acclimate.
• Cost of Living & Earning Potential: For those earning USD, the cost of living is significantly lower, allowing for a higher quality of life than might be affordable in Western countries. Entrepreneurial opportunities are also more accessible with lower startup costs.
• Purpose-Driven Living: The narrator emphasizes the importance of having a clear purpose (online business, fulfilling job, remote work) for living in Vietnam, rather than treating it as a perpetual vacation.
• Cultural Adjustment: Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and not expect others to adhere to Western norms or speak English, highlighting the need to adapt to the local culture.
• Challenging Perceptions: The video counters the stereotype of Vietnam being a uniformly poor country, noting the presence of affluent individuals and diverse opportunities.
• Mental Well-being: The narrator suggests that many people move to other countries to escape themselves and that addressing personal issues is crucial, as simply relocating will not solve underlying problems.