I Left The U.S. For Vietnam — Here’s How Much It Costs

In the heart of Southeast Asia lies Vietnam, a country with a rich tapestry of history, culture, and community—a place that has become a second home for many expatriates. Among them is Marquez Ryan, a 36-year-old U.S. veteran who has resided in Ho Chi Minh City for six transformative years. His journey, marked by personal struggles, military experiences, and cultural assimilation, unveils the complex dynamics of living abroad and the allure of discovering a life that feels like home.

Marquez’s story begins in Maryland, just outside Washington DC, where he grew up in a relatively stable environment. However, the 2008 financial crisis rattled his family, significantly impacting his mother’s job and thrusting them into economic uncertainty. Seeking direction amid this turbulence, Marquez enlisted in the military at the age of 20, embarking on a path that would lead him to varied global destinations, including South Korea, Germany, and several African nations. But it was in Vietnam where he truly found solace and a sense of belonging.

“Traveling in the past for me was always about escaping,” he reflects. “Here, I feel like I have nothing to escape from.” This longing for connection rather than flight encapsulates the duality of his life as both a soldier and a civilian. After facing disappointment in the military that left him feeling depressed, a visit to Vietnam altered the course of his life forever. He describes how the vibrant landscapes, welcoming culture, and the simplicity of life there made him realize the potential for happiness that he had lost.

The Allure of Vietnamese Coffee

One of the most captivating aspects of Marquez’s experience in Vietnam is his relationship with the local coffee culture. “Vietnamese coffee is like a drug,” he jokes, recounting how its intense caffeine content keeps him buzzing through long days. Unlike the milky lattes familiar to many Westerners, Vietnamese coffee packs a punch with its unique brewing methods and flavors, often served with sweetened condensed milk. This addictive quality not only provides an energy boost but also serves as a cultural bridge, welcoming newcomers into Vietnam’s vibrant café life.

For those contemplating a move to Vietnam or just wanting to explore its culture, indulging in local coffee shops should be at the top of your list. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the serene countryside, coffee shops offer an authentic glimpse into daily life and the opportunity to connect with locals. Take a seat in a small plastic chair on the sidewalk, and you’ll soon discover that Vietnamese coffee drinking is as much about the experience as it is about the beverage itself.

The Cost of Living in Ho Chi Minh City

Marquez successfully navigates the financial landscape of Vietnam, earning approximately $4,000 a month, which allows him to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. This income stems from a combination of sources: $1,500 from VA disability, part-time teaching, and a side gig in day trading. “Every month, I make a little more or a little less,” he admits, acknowledging the financial risks of investing while also enjoying the flexibility of teaching ESL for 12 hours a week.

The cost of living in Ho Chi Minh City is another factor that contributes to its appeal for expats. With a gorgeous apartment costing $850 a month, the city offers a range of accommodation options to fit various budgets. Cheaper housing can be found for as low as $200 to $300, while luxury options exist for those willing to spend more. Utilities, including electric and water bills, remain impressively low, a pleasant surprise for those used to higher expenses in Western cities.

Food costs also provide a significant advantage for those living in Vietnam. If you’re willing to cook your own meals, it’s possible to live on just $100 a month, while reliance on food delivery services can add up to $400. Marquez emphasizes that opting for local markets and home cooking opens up a world of culinary delights that are both affordable and health-conscious.

Cultural Integration and Community

Marquez’s integration into Vietnamese society offers fascinating insights into the local culture and attitudes towards foreigners. He acknowledges the curious glances he receives as a Black man in a predominantly homogenous society; however, he views these stares not as prejudice but human curiosity. “Honestly, you can’t blame them for staring. This is the first time they’ve seen a Black guy in a month, two months, a year,” he reflects. This dynamic highlights an important aspect of globalization—the blending of cultures and the opportunity to learn from one another.

The warmth of Vietnamese society has enabled Marquez to form genuine connections, allowing him to engage with locals in a way that transcends language barriers. He fondly describes how these relationships often culminate in shared experiences, even hugs with strangers, representing camaraderie and the spirit of community that defines everyday life in Vietnam. In a world where connections can feel superficial, these heartfelt interactions serve as a reminder of the richness of human connection.

Future Aspirations

As Marquez reflects on his life in Vietnam, he expresses a desire to build a bar that serves as a cultural melting pot—an establishment where Vietnamese locals and expatriates can come together to learn from one another. It symbolizes his commitment to fostering cross-cultural dialogue, where experiences are shared, and friendships are cultivated over glasses of beer or cups of coffee. He envisions a place where storytelling and cultural exchange blend seamlessly, capturing the essence of what it means to belong to an interconnected world.

His enthusiasm and passion for Vietnamese culture resonate deeply, inviting others to imagine the possibilities of life abroad. Marquez’s story illustrates how embracing new experiences, seeking genuine connections, and finding home in unexpected places can enrich one’s journey and redefine the meaning of belonging.