Vietnam, an ideal destination for digital nomads

A convenient tourist visa, plenty of attractions, a low cost of living and a friendly atmosphere are among the reasons that make Vietnam an ideal destination for digital nomads, according to Travel Off Path, a travel news source that provides the latest and most relevant news for travellers around the world.

Hoi An is one of foreign tourists’ favourite destinations once they arrive in Vietnam.
(Photo: TTXVN)

Vietnam’s 90-day tourist visa, recently introduced in August, is a game changer for visitors and digital nomads, according to Travel Off Path.

Not only is the document available online, but it also allows multiple entries into and exits from Vietnam, making it easy for remote workers to explore hotspots and attractions beyond the country’s borders, Travel Off Path noted.

Similar visas in comparable Southeast Asian destinations are far from being as easy to obtain or as long-lasting.

Thailand’s, for example, lasts only 30 to 45 days, while Indonesia requires applicants to show proof of funds of at least two billion Indonesian rupiah (130,000 USD) in their bank account, which is simply unrealistic for many remote workers.

As well as being famous for its magnificent scenery, Vietnam attracts remote workers because of its low cost of living, Travel Off Path said.

With a spacious one-bedroom flat costing less than 250 USD and monthly food costs of around 200 USD, it is easy to see why so many digital nomads are flocking to Vietnam.

Anecdotal evidence shows that the average living costs of a digital nomad based in Hanoi, Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City range from 700 to 950 USD, which is remarkably cheap compared with other Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand or Malaysia.

In a café in Thao Diên, in Thu Duc City.
Photo: VNA/CVN

In particular, friendliness and hospitality are major traits deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture. Visitors can feel them when they interact with local people or ask them for help.

The willingness of Vietnamese people to share their culture and traditions not only enhances the overall experience but also allows you to build new relationships and truly feel part of a community.

The country’s popularity among digital nomads has turned its largest cities into thriving expatriate communities where you can meet people in the same situation as you through coworking spaces and networking events.

Not only is it a destination that attracts digital nomads, but Vietnam is also the second most popular New Year destination in Asia. This was announced by Travel off Path on the basis of an analysis by the Singapore-based travel platform 12Go. According to it, the top 10 countries in Asia for enjoying the end-of-year festivities and welcoming the new year are Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, India, Cambodia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Laos, Malaysia and Japan.

Vietnam is a country with magnificent scenery, a rich history and culture and particularly appealing street food, Travel Off Path said. Vietnam is also home to many World Heritage sites recognised by UNESCO, such as Hue, Hoi An, Ha Long Bay, the My Son Sanctuary and Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.

The travel platform recommended Sa Pa as a winter destination for families, and the lively streets of Hanoi for solo adventurers. It also advised tourists to soak up the holiday atmosphere in Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City.

Source: Le courrier du Vietnam