Is it the cheap cost of living, the magnificent tropical views, or living a life of luxury on a budget that attracts digital nomads to Southeast Asia?
No matter the reason, digital nomads are more than happy to call places like Indonesia and Thailand their temporary home.
Who doesn’t want to end their work day by exploring lush green forests and admiring ancient momentums and temples?
While Bali may have shown remote workers the beauty of Asia, it is not the continent’s only gem. And with over-tourism on the rise, it’s ideal to search for alternative places that offer the same luxuries and necessities as popular destinations.
Fortunately, there’s Vietnam. This Asian country, known for its delicious Pho, is slowly becoming a top destination for digital nomads, and here’s why.
Affordable cost of living
One of the most attractive factors of Vietnam is its low cost of living. In major cities such as Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, you can find a suitable apartment for about $250 to $500 a month.
If you’re starting your remote journey, you don’t need a lot of money to live a good life in Vietnam. You can live comfortably on a monthly salary of between $1000-$1500.
The weather
Although Vietnam has a more tropical environment, the temperature and weather can vary depending on the region.
In the north, you are likely to get all four seasons. The further north you go, the cooler it can get. The central area can be hot and dry, with heavy rainfall from September through November.
Depending on the time of year, the south of Vietnam can be dry and hot or warm and wet. Heavy rainfall usually happens in June, July, and August.
Because of the varying weather climates within the regions, it’s easier to find a conducive environment to live in.
Simple visa requirements
Most travelers from the United States will need a visa upon entering. You can obtain one online or through the Vietnamese embassy in different states.
The processing fee is $25, and the visa is valid for 30 days with the possibility of an extension.
For travelers not from the U.S., you can check out the online list of visa requirements for your country.
The coffee culture
Besides laptops and an internet connection, coffee is one of the essential things for digital nomads. Fortunately, Vietnam is one of the largest producers of coffee, so there is a good chance of high-quality brew.
Besides its unique styles of coffee, such as coconut, and egg coffee, Vietnam provides unique elements to its coffee shops.
Suppose you’re a worker who can concentrate in a busy environment. In that case, you’ll enjoy unique contemporary cafes such as La Viet Coffee and Cafe Da Nang. Both places offer unique and calming aesthetics as a backdrop to a bustling cafe.
If you want to mix work and play, check out Rainforest Cafe in downtown Nha Trang, which is built in a treehouse with swings and slides.
Co-working spaces
A great alternative to working out of coffee shops is Vietnam’s affordable co-working spaces.
Some popular spaces include:
The Hive
The Hive has three locations in Ho Chi Minh. Besides the comfortable working spaces and air-conditioned rooms, the Hive Villa offers a special element. The Villa offers a swimming pool and garden for the perfect balance of work and zen.
Dreamplex
This co-working space has 12 different working rooms to meet the needs of any digital nomad. Its open space design, complimented by greenery, makes it the perfect place to feel rejuvenated and focused. This dreamy co-working space is located in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.
Enouvo Space
Enouvo Space is the ideal place to work and meet new people. In addition to shared working spaces, there are lounge areas where you can connect with other professionals.
Hotspots for digital nomads in Vietnam
If you’re convinced to try Vietnam, here are some trendy spots to look out for.
- Da Nang
- Hoi An
- Hanoi
- Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
