I Asked 13 Expats How Living in Da Nang Changed Their Lives 🇻🇳

Summary

Thirteen expats describe Da Nang as a place that has reshaped their daily lives. Their experiences differ, but many point to greater affordability, a slower pace, a strong sense of freedom, and more time for health, friendships, and leisure.

Health and everyday routines

One expat who had congestive heart failure says that after moving, they became more active, walked regularly, and felt healthier. Others mention morning beach walks, swimming, and how easy it is to walk around the city. These are personal experiences, not medical advice.

Food and wellness

Several expats say fresh fruit, vegetables, seafood, and local meals are affordable, making it practical to eat out. One person says they lost more weight after moving, attributing it partly to their diet and continued walking. Some also enjoy low-cost massages and grooming services.

Affordability and retirement

Expats compare the cost of housing, meals, and social activities favorably with the US and Australia. They say lower expenses made it easier to retire, go out with friends, and enjoy experiences without worrying as much about money. Examples include a bánh mì meal costing roughly $2 and an inexpensive fruit-and-yogurt outing.

Safety and freedom

Many describe feeling less stressed and more comfortable walking around, including at night. Some say they experience less aggression and worry less about violence than they did in the US. These are individual perceptions and comparisons.

Community and social life

Interviewees praise the warmth of local residents and say it has been easy to make friends. They mention activities such as pickleball, Latin dance, singing, and board-game nights, as well as casual conversations in cafés and public spaces.

A simpler lifestyle

Several couples say moving meant fitting their belongings into a few suitcases, giving away or discarding possessions, and finding freedom in having less to maintain. They value time and experiences over acquiring things.

Adjustment and perspective

Some acknowledge that moving was mentally challenging at first, but say it broadened their outlook and made them more patient, appreciative, and open-minded. Several recommend visiting Da Nang for a month before making a permanent move rather than assuming it will suit everyone.

What they value most

Beach access, warm weather, affordable living, family-oriented culture, and the flexibility to spend a day however they choose come up repeatedly. A few compare Da Nang’s atmosphere to Hawaii in earlier decades.

Notable locations, services, and speakers

• Locations: Da Nang, Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Sydney, Indiana, New York, Syracuse, Hawaii, Waikiki, and Honolulu. Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan are also mentioned as nearby destinations.
• Businesses and activities: Mayflower, Grab, the Fruit Bowl, bánh mì, pickleball, Latin dance, swimming, and beach walks.
• Speakers: The video features multiple unnamed expats sharing personal accounts, including retirees, couples, and a Black American expat. Gunner is addressed during the interviews.