Retirement may be considered to be a stage where you stop working, but it certainly does not imply a stage where you stop enjoying your life. This stage in your life should be considered as a time of relaxation, a time where you stop working for good and in order to ensure that you make the most of your retirement, you need to plan in advance. The ever-rising costs and the urge to discover new places and people is prompting many Americans to retire to exotic places around the world, especially Asia. A sense of adventure may work as a driving force for you to search for a place where you would want to spend the rest of your life, but there are certain factors that has to be taken in account before you think of moving to a new land. Let us take a look at what is one of the best places to retire in Asia – let us talk about how to retire in Vietnam.
Money is the most important factor, as it dictates the decision to change the place where you live. If you do not have a good income after retirement but you still want to start living in a place which is not only peaceful and beautiful, but economical as well, then Vietnam serves as a good option for you.
Vietnam is a country that has captivating natural beauty and tranquil village life. This gracious and graceful country that is an outstanding travel destination has a cost of living which is relatively lower than that of the US. People who have retired or are about to retire often plan for a peaceful post-retirement life, distant from their once-hectic professional lives. A number of retirees have purchased properties in Southeast Asian countries in the past and the trend is continuing, which demonstrates the importance of these places when it comes to retirement destinations. As compared to other countries in Southeast Asia, the cost of living is lowest in Vietnam, which makes it one of the most preferred retirement destinations in the region.
People who have a liking for natural beauty are attracted towards destinations such as Vietnam that has an abundance of flora and fauna in its dense tropical rain forests. It is a country blessed with rich natural resources such as unspoiled landscapes, virgin beaches and islands, soaring hills and mountains, heavenly waterfalls, peaceful rivers and springs, highlands and rainforest regions with exotic wildlife. The weather is usually pleasant around the year. The country has managed to retain its rustic charm that most other Asian regions lack. It is rich in culture and tradition and is home to friendly and peace-loving people.
Cost of living in Vietnam
Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia:
- A bowl of soup costs around 50 cents U.S.
- A taxi ride from the airport to Ho Chi Min City costs around $4.50 U.S.
- Laundry charges for 10 to 12 clothes are around 25 cents.
- Renting an average apartment in central Ho Chi Min City costs around 445 U.S. dollars per month.
- A pack of cigarettes costs around 75 cents.
- A beer bottle costs around 65 cents and a bottle of water costs around 35 cents.
- A house cleaner’s salary ranges from $100 to $150 U.S. per month.
- School fees for a year range between $4,000 and $11,000 U.S.
- A visit to a doctor costs around $50.
- Meals in budget restaurants cost around $1 to $2, $3 to $8 dollars in mid-range restaurants, and $20+ in top-notch restaurants.
Transportation
The transportation system is relatively less developed in Vietnam as compared to other Southeast Asian countries. The lack of proper transportation facilities and infrastructure has become an obstacle in the country’s progress. Major seaports in the country still lack modern infrastructure and flights operated by the state-run Vietnamese Airlines, although lacking in frequency, are relatively reliable. In big cities such as Saigon and Hanoi, the most common modes of transport used by locals for commuting to work are rickshaws and bicycles. The locals also use bicycles for carrying groceries and other items. The sight of overloaded bicycles is common in Vietnam. Ordinary buses operating in these cities can be very crowded (hence, the use of bicycles). The best option is to travel in the air-conditioned buses that operate at certain intervals. Private taxis are also a good option as they are extremely affordable. Aside from these, motorbike taxis (Xe Om) are also available in big Vietnamese cities and the cost of most rides is often less than $1 U.S.
Food
Local Vietnamese cuisine is very varied with more than five hundred types of traditional dishes that include both vegetarian and non-vegetarian varieties. Non-vegetarian dishes are often made from the meat of rare animals. Although the taste is good, some people, especially those who are new to Vietnamese cuisine, may find it takes some getting used to. The affinity towards non-vegetarian cuisine is easily visible as even vegetarian dishes are often prepared to replicate meat and fish dishes. The staple diet of the local people consists of plain rice served along with different types of vegetable, fish, and meat dishes that contain plenty of spices. A number of delicious snack options are available in Vietnam, including spring rolls, noodles, and steamed rice dumplings. Soups served in Vietnamese restaurants are often prepared from eel, vermicelli, and shredded chicken. In the country, one can try a number of exotic fruits such as mangosteen, three-seed cherry, water apple, green dragon fruit, and longan. One can also try local Vietnamese coffee, which is usually served strong and sweet.
Housing
Housing is relatively cheap in Vietnam and outsiders can easily purchase or rent different types of residential accommodations such as apartments, private residences, villas, and service apartments even in the big cities. People who do not want to incur capital expenses on buying a home, may settle for rented accommodations, which are readily available in big cities such as Hanoi and Saigon. Ordinary apartments that are not air-conditioned are available at around $350 U.S. per month. Most of these apartments are clean and are best for retirees, who often do not have large families. Independent houses are available for rent of around $500 per month. However, similar houses located near a commercial center may require a rent of $800 to $1000 dollars per month. While renting such houses, make sure that the owner has the requisite legal papers in place. Luxury houses are available for a rent of $2000+ per month and are located inside housing societies that offer different amenities such as sports and recreational centers. Villas are also available in Vietnam for rent of around $2000+ per month and are meant for people who want to feel at home and have large families. When buying or renting an accommodation, retirees are advised to approach only one agent as most property firms share the same database of property listings.
Medical Facilities
There are no major health risks in Vietnam, especially if one is living in big cities such as Hanoi and Saigon. At the most, foreigners may be prone to an upset stomach, especially when they have just arrived in the country. Hospitals equipped with modern medical facilities are available in big cities. Hospitals in small towns and cities may not have such facilities, but do provide basic healthcare services. Pharmacies are well equipped, which means expatriates need not carry medicines from the U.S.
Vietnam is a great place to retire – having a low cost of living and offering more than basic living standards. Retirees can spend their days in the company of friendly folks and in the midst of nature, surrounded by waterfalls, mountains and forests.
As you can see there is much to learn and discover in Vietnam. When you visit you will see what makes it such a beautiful country to live, work and retire.
Discover what makes Vietnam one of the best places to retire in Asia and around the world.