Moving to a new country is a big step, and Vietnam is no exception. We get a lot of questions from employees making the move, and many of them share the same concerns. Here are five most commonly asked ones we get once the dust has settled, along with some local insights to help make the transition smoother. Don’t worry they are all very valid questions.
1. Is the food that is so cheap in the streets safe to eat?
Vietnam is famous for its street food, and while much of it is safe and delicious, not all stalls meet Western hygiene standards. Locals eat street food daily, and vendors rely on repeat customers, so many do maintain good hygiene. However, it’s best to stick to busy stalls where food is freshly cooked, and avoid anything that looks like it’s been sitting out too long. Some street food may not be as safe as you’d expect, so be cautious. Your stomach may need time to adjust, so start slow and see what works for you.
Credit: Local Vietnam
2. Do I need to learn Vietnamese to get by?
Not necessarily. English is widely spoken in expat areas and many workplaces, especially in major cities. That said, learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases can be really helpful for daily interactions and shows respect for the local culture. Plus, it can make things like shopping, haggling and dining out a lot easier. And people will definitely love it when you try!
3. How are healthcare and international schools in Vietnam?
Vietnam has both public and private healthcare, but most expats prefer private hospitals and international clinics because they offer better facilities and English-speaking staff. Public hospitals are cheaper but often come with long wait times and language barriers.
As for schools, Vietnam has a good selection of international schools, especially in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. These schools follow international curriculums (such as IB, British, or American systems) and are popular among expat families.
4. Are scooters safe to ride?
Scooters are the most common mode of transport in Vietnam, and while they can be a convenient way to get around, safety is a big concern. Needless to say all those chaotic Vietnam street photos that have gone viral on the internet add even more fear to those who have not been here before.
One key thing to remember is that you can’t (and shouldn’t) ride fast in the city—traffic moves slowly, and defensive driving is essential. Also, you need a valid motorbike license to ride legally. Many expats ignore this, but if you’re in an accident without a proper license, insurance won’t cover you. If you’re new to riding, consider taking lessons before hitting the road.
Credit: Skeptical Chef
5. Is it easy to make friends in Vietnam?
Absolutely! Vietnam has a welcoming expat community, and locals are generally friendly and open to foreigners. Many expats make friends through work, social events, or hobbies like sports, language exchanges, or meetup groups. Joining online expat communities or attending local events can also help you connect with both locals and fellow expats. Making an effort to understand the culture and engage with people will go a long way in building meaningful connections.
Moving to Vietnam is an exciting adventure, and a little preparation goes a long way. Hopefully, this gives you a better idea of what to expect. If you’ve got more questions, feel free to reach out!