American retired early overseas on 500 USD per month

Dan's Da Nang Resources and links to everything:
vagabondbuddha.com/retire-in-...
𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝗘-𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞→ 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗕𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱
vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-...
𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗽 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱𝘄𝗶𝗱𝗲☆★☆
vagabondbuddha.com/
𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗥oad Map to Freedom Overseas (Retire Overseas Course)☆★☆
vagabondbuddha.com/courses/th...
𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲 $$$ 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝗯𝗯𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀e
vagabondbuddha.com/courses/th...
Health Insurance I Bought (Free ebook, Video, Agent, not affiliate link):
vagabondbuddha.com/expat-heal...
What kinds of risks are you taking if you move overseas?
vagabondbuddha.com/our-liabil...
👇🏻 𝐅𝐎𝐋𝐋𝐎𝐖 𝐐𝐈𝐀𝐍𝐆 👇🏻
💁🏻‍♀️ 𝐇𝐎𝐁𝐎 𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄𝐒 - 𝐐𝐈𝐀𝐍𝐆 𝐇𝐔𝐈
〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️
📹 𝙔𝙊𝙐𝙏𝙐𝘽𝙀 𝘾𝙃𝘼𝙉𝙉𝙀𝙇: / @hoboventures
📌 𝘽𝙇𝙊𝙂 : hoboventures.com/
🤳𝙄𝙉𝙎𝙏𝘼𝙂𝙍𝘼𝙈 : / qianghui
‼️𝐋𝐈𝐀𝐁𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐃𝐈𝐒𝐂𝐋𝐀𝐈𝐌𝐄𝐑‼️: While we have done our best to share our gathered data with you, we are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained using this information. All information is provided “AS-IS,” with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness, or for the results obtained using this information, and without warranty of any kind, express or implied, including, but not limited to warranties of performance, merchantability, and fitness for a particular purpose. In no event will we be liable to you or anyone else for any decision made or action taken in reliance on the information for any consequential, special or similar damages. Any reliance on the information is strictly at your own risk. Instead, you should consult with legal, medical, financial, tax, and/or other such appropriate professionals familiar with your unique and detailed factual situation before taking any actions.
‼️𝐂𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐎𝐅 𝐋𝐈𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐃𝐈𝐒𝐂𝐋𝐀𝐈𝐌𝐄𝐑‼️: Our cost of living estimates include only the cheapest food, rent, and local transportation. It does not include medical insurance or any other expenses. Before moving here, you must do a temporary exploratory site visit in order to accurately calculate your personal cost of living here for all costs for your lifestyle and needs. Plus, make sure you have access to significant additional savings in case you face an emergency.
꧁ 𝐕𝐀𝐆𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐍𝐃 𝐀𝐖𝐀𝐊𝐄 ꧂ 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐛𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐕𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐁𝐮𝐝𝐝𝐡𝐚.𝐜𝐨𝐦
☆★☆ 𝐅𝐎𝐋𝐋𝐎𝐖 𝐌𝐄 ☆★☆
💁🏻‍♂️ ➪ 𝐕𝐀𝐆𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐍𝐃 𝐁𝐔𝐃𝐃𝐇𝐀
〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️
☆ 𝙁𝘼𝘾𝙀𝘽𝙊𝙊𝙆 𝙋𝘼𝙂𝙀 ☆ :
/ vagabondbuddha
☆ 📩 𝘾𝙊𝙉𝙏𝘼𝘾𝙏 𝘿𝘼𝙉 ☆ :
vagabondbuddha.com/contact/
𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒌 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒘𝒂𝒕𝒄𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈,
𝑫𝒂𝒏
✩★☆ 𝘼𝙉𝙊𝙏𝙃𝙀𝙍 𝙁𝙍𝙀𝙀 𝙚𝘽𝙊𝙊𝙆 𝙄 (𝘼𝙈) 𝙃𝘼𝙋𝙋𝙔☆★✩
vagabondbuddha.com/i-am-happy/

[@formica.]

This was a unique interview. The message wasn't just John's low cost of living, but how he accomplished it through networking friendships by being outgoing and (apparently!) likable. A lesson for life actually.

[@VagabondAwake]

Great point Formica.

[@DaNangJohnS]

Thank you for your kind words. Dan’s comment about a smile and a hello being the best international passport around the world is spot on. 😊

[@johnnesbitt3210]

Hello John, nice video, I also did a vlog with Dan not so long ago about living in Danang. Ive been living here since December, would you fancy grabbing a coffee sometime and having a chat.

[@tonystich2818]

My dad left his phone outside a huge bakery . We went back to our hotel 2 hours later we went back and the staff had his phone for him

[@fruitloops3718]

I have a philippine restaurant and the employees along with myself know that if something is left behind, we hold it until they return or for at least one month. There's no excuse for stealing other peoples property and that's what it is when someone leaves something behind and someone else takes said property. I have instructed them not to look through their belongings but bring it to the manager where he or she will try to located a name, address or phone number. I really get upset with theft especially our guests.

[@CarsonBoyd]

I love that! My kind of people!

[@rickt7425]

One other thing I noticed with Vietnamese people is they have a great sense of humor and understand casual banter ❤

[@DaNangJohnS]

True. They have a great sense of humor and it’s one part of what can be often needed to date here.

[@WilliamFluery]

Thanks for continuing to offer SE Asia testimonials while you explore other parts of the world.

[@VagabondAwake]

Our pleasure! When guests have something to share for retirement destinations or slow travel, we will interview them if we think their knowledge can move you forward. This is all about not wasiting your time.

[@makeyourlifeeasier5794]

Your interviews get better each time Dan. We love watching so Don't slow down!

[@VagabondAwake]

I would get bored slowing down. Not gunna happen. No worries.

[@andynguyen979]

@@VagabondAwake would you like interview me?

[@chrishamlin5863]

Another happy American expat who found what he was looking for here in Vietnam. Chúc mừng em

[@DaNangJohnS]

Đúng. Cảm ơn bạn 😊

[@chrishamlin5863]

@@DaNangJohnS không có gì

[@Nuggetsjourney44]

Amazing guy you’ve had interviewed here Dan, I’m moving to Nha trang from northern Australia in 4 weeks and I’m budgeting $800-1000 AUD a month, only extra I’ll spend is going across to Thailand every 3 months to do evisa run… I know it can be done at 500 to 750 USD after watching this friend of yours, now I’m keen to walk everywhere and find those daily 3x$2 dollar meals

[@VagabondAwake]

The guest has unlocked the secret. If you do this, you are likely to be able to do what he has done. There are no guarantees in life, but follow this process to increase the likelihood. :-)

[@Nuggetsjourney44]

@@VagabondAwake agreed, I’ll just slot into local life and get acclimated in 6-12 months, thanks Dan ✌🏽

[@philthomas7140]

Mate, keep me updated as I'm in Brisbane and thinking about the same thing. Albo can have his cesspool.

[@Nuggetsjourney44]

@@philthomas7140 yeh phil I’ve just subscribed to ya mate, I follow Dan worldwide and a few others solely based in Nha trang and DaNang, I’m actually thinking about a vlog over here maybe just walking tours to start off (easy editing) and I’ll tag you in then mate. Nha Trang and DaNang are looking so good, house sale settles in 21 days, before that go to Melbourne to see extended family then early June I’ll be on the ground, I have visa agent through another vlogger “Travis travels” and I’ll keep you updated with all costs etc, might do a few basic spread sheets throw them up on here so people can see costings etc… I cannot wait mate, gunna be so cool living there ✌🏽

[@mattrins]

@@philthomas7140 I left Australia for Da Nang and couldn't be happier.

[@ribe3434]

That guy knows how to expat. Great disposition to living abroad.

[@VagabondAwake]

Love it. "That guy knows how to expat."

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Great stuff, Dan! Thanks for sharing!

[@00763jake]

Thank you for a real, and down to earth interview. It was a pleasure listening.

[@Dakotaden4]

Excellent video. Lots of great information provided by your guest 👍

[@NizarRawji-nz2qj]

Da Nang looks Very Inviting. Thank you both.

[@jhonnyfromme2109]

Another great video, thanks. I hope people take this content to heart and change their life even if they don't have a lot.

[@VagabondAwake]

I hope so too!

[@spacesandplacesoutthere]

Great interview and information. Appreciated!

[@geoffbendel9467]

Great interview, I just used Lynn Visa myself, very highly recommended. Loving it here!

[@KptnKMan360]

41 years old, this year is my retirement. I've been planning my exit from "The West" for a decade.

[@DaNangJohnS]

Congratulations to you. Great news.

[@KptnKMan360]

@@DaNangJohnS thanks, I'm so excited. I'm wondering, how does one get in touch with expats already there? I noticed there was talk about coffee shops, but I'm not there now.

[@orangehaw]

@@KptnKMan360 I believe joining facebook groups etc. is the easiest way to get in contact with people already living there :)

[@orangehaw]

This was a great video Cheers!

[@CarsonBoyd]

I love this video and the information! Thank you so much!

[@VagabondAwake]

Glad it was helpful!

[@divinaflamingarrow9556]

I am so happy for all your good luck and new friendships!

[@DaNangJohnS]

Thank you 😊

[@WilliamFluery]

I’ve seen several Da Nang vlogs this year and without a doubt this will be on my next SE Asia adventure…Nha Trang as well. I’ve been to Saigon and Dalat already so Vietnam is a candidate for a retirement destination.

[@johnerd]

I love the part about not "sugar coating" the experience.

[@tonystich2818]

I loved danang. Beautiful people very honest very safe

[@bernardbernard4880]

i recon one street resto in D N ... amazing channel good vibes hope to meet you guys eventually

[@ralphfurley4217]

Great information

[@VagabondAwake]

Glad it was helpful!

[@martinryder6910]

Fascinating

[@roberteckerle3794]

Great video 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for the visit

[@glennkoch5173]

Great interview!

[@fendermon]

Good stuff, thanks :)

[@VagabondAwake]

Glad you liked it!

[@user-ep3ck5re4o]

Great interview - very informative 👌👌🙏

[@gozitan5]

Thanks 👍🏼

[@VagabondAwake]

You bet!

[@kevinn2216]

Amazing. I was there last December and was awestruck from the moment I arrived. (I also awestruck the minute I got to Phu Quoc). I didn't want to leave either place in the end! Speaking of visas, I wonder what Duong Global Business visa service is like?? His videos keep popping up for me.

[@divinaflamingarrow9556]

Happiness, friends and affordable ❤

[@paulburton3666]

Excellent

[@jayw115]

Really nice to hear. I could definitely live there for a while and save up money.

[@faustinodibauda251]

Thank you Dan I really appreciate all your work and the guests that you put together on your show. The guest today was saying he would do Visa runs from the name to Palau or Talao. Where's that in what country?

[@DaNangJohnS]

Visa runs from Da Nang to Laos and back. If you use a visa agency like LynnVisa, it is only one day with no stay in Laos if you don’t want to stay in Laos to travel.

[@NHJDT]

We went to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh for a month last year and we got tired of street vendors trying to rip us off and constantly giving us wrong change and then when I called them out on it, they want to give me more of their products instead of the correct change. We were supposed to go to Da nang for another month but I cancelled it and went to the Philippines instead. No one tried to rip me off there thankfully and therefore this winter, we will return to Thailand and the Philippines but not Vietnam

[@VagabondAwake]

You went to the big city and slipped the smaller towns. Bad idea if you want to meet the normal folks.

[@NHJDT]

@@VagabondAwake maybe we should have given da nang a try. Although we also went to big cities in Korea, Japan, Thailand, Singapore, and the Philippines and did not face the same issues

[@DaNangJohnS]

I hope you try again in Da Nang. I cannot speak for Saigon/Ho Chi Minh city but I sometimes give too much money in Da Nang and I always get the difference returned. The experience flipped for me when I left the main expat tourist area and moved to where the locals lived. That one decision changed my entire future here for the best outcomes.

[@rhh176]

I lived in Thailand and Vietnam, I can tell you that you're a million times more likely to be ripped off in Thailand. Thailand is famous for scams and incredible greed....

[@lemaitrethemonk]

@DaNangJohnS I feel the same about the Philippines. I was not impressed with Manila and Cebu. Once I went to the smaller cities and the provinces, everything changed. Now, I am going to build in Ormoc and use that as a home base while I travel all over the Philippines and eventually, Most of Asia. Cheers and much love/health...

[@jameshunt2905]

Something that perhaps helps understand is the reality where Vietnam as a culture is truly a cafe society in that life is lived as much out and about regularly meeting friends and interacting with many venues where meeting new people and growing friendships is quite usual.

[@VagabondAwake]

Great share.

[@veronicaburgess7250]

John & Dan excellent video ❤️❤️❤️

[@DaNangJohnS]

Cảm ơn bạn rất nhiều 😊

[@veronicaburgess7250]

@@DaNangJohnS thank you xx

[@veronicaburgess7250]

loved that Ur integrated, am coming over to live myself in 26, so hope to buy U a beer, xx vee😊

[@jron20r51]

This was a real great interview, does he have a facebook page or other info? I consider it the best interview from Danang. Wondering about the dog bite, was it down a side alley?

[@DaNangJohnS]

The dog nip on my back calf was in a normal neighborhood just off a main road. I recognized the dog. The dog is a bit “ruff” like his owner when I met him later on… It was a minor nip and has healed well. (Going to the hospital and subsequent clinic was a good idea. Today is my 4th of 5 shot rounds.)

[@Dakotaden4]

Their coffee shops are like the saloons in the U.S. in the early 1900s apparently :)

[@MrTomherzog]

Great video, Dan. That is so helpful. Getting to know people in the region is key. But what about those of us who don't speak Vietnamese? I know, I know. The first response is "learn it." But it's not that easy at my age. Any way, best regards to you and your lovely partner. And thanks again.

[@DaNangJohnS]

Agreed it is not easy. For myself, I have a retired couple that are part of my friends group and they are teaching me. They said school wise, it would take 5 years. What we focus on are key phrases and how the language sounds and is properly enunciated. (I also learn the culture through them and they help me understand my Viet fiancé.)

[@VagabondAwake]

I don't speak any Vietnamese. I don't even know how to say hello. In 17+ years know I have done fine. But I move to different countries all the time. If I stayed somewhere I would learn the language. But I could live ion Vietnam without learning Vietnamese. But if I stayed permanently I would probably choose to learn some basics at least to be polite. :-)

[@bushtukkaphil]

Good on you Jon. I'll be heading there for 3 weeks in July. Coming from China for a break. Let's do coffee and compare?

[@DaNangJohnS]

@bushtukkaphil - Sounds good. If you directly email Dan, he will usually generously forward your email to me so our info is not on YT.

[@robertohidaka5897]

I will definetly visit Da Nang. I am based in Japan so it is not far from here.

[@stevenjb.9275]

Visas for American's were nice pre-2019. One year Visa with 90-day border runs.

[@DaNangJohnS]

That sounds nice. I hope they change it back. There is talk here about longer Visas being discussed in the government. I am hopeful positive change is coming.

[@VietnamSteve]

A Vietnamese wife is a very good wife, let’s hope it works out.

[@DaNangJohnS]

Thank you. I hope so. The family has approved and that’s a huge hurdle.

[@rhh176]

Are they materialistic?

[@VietnamSteve]

@@rhh176 I don’t think so they seem traditional and family orientated here

[@DaNangJohnS]

@@rhh176In my experiences (ex-wife being Viet in USA) and what I have seen here the last 10 years… Most all women are traditionally conservative and highly protected by family. They live with them until married. To even date my current Viet GF in Da Nang, I was referred to her by 4 people. We had a blind date. No hugging. No kissing etc. FYI - holding hands literally means you are accepting to marry the woman. No joking around here. Now - can you instead date way outside of your age and get a younger early 20’s girl - yes. Is she more likely to burn through your money? Not always. How careful and conservative she is and all the elder grilling you will receive and the family cultural rituals (basket of fruit and a cake to even meet the parents) will help weed out your true intentions to protect their daughter…

[@rhh176]

@@DaNangJohnS They sound like good wives, but I think very difficult to meet because of the conservative culture. I definitely wouldn't want one on those online dating girls or ones that hang out in bars.....

[@martywrigh1024]

We loved Da Nang but met several ex pats who mentioned what a nightmare the seasonal storms were.. Other than that ...great beach people food & safety

[@VagabondAwake]

It is a little warner in the winter in Nha Trang. Check that out too while here. They have buses and trains running up and down the coast.

[@USA2Brazil]

Great Interview, does John speak any Vietnamese?

[@DaNangJohnS]

I now have a teacher and go to ‘class’ per say for 10 hours per week. I am practicing Vietnamese daily and there has been some understanding the first time after only a 6-8 hours of learning. I am also teaching my Viet GF English and she helps me with my Vietnamese enunciation.

[@jshepard152]

Da Nang looks great. My issue is the same as usual....hot, humid weather with highs in the 90s has little appeal to me.

[@DaNangJohnS]

The tropical climate with humidity can be challenging at times.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for sharing

[@nala3038]

Is any part of Vietnam cool?

[@leevikiviranta]

if you have 2 choices, either live in North- Europe or Canada, struggling in depressive darkness and cold long winter or enjoy in tropical climate and sunlight (which are free)..., which one you would choose? albeit with little money like 500 dollar/ month....😀my choice is easy!

[@trickolas78]

This is gold, dan!

[@makeyourlifeeasier5794]

Sounds like lots of coffee shops in my future.

[@Trade2Travel]

Walking the area on a quest for coffee shop conversations sounds like a great idea. Then it dawned on me. I don't speak vietnamese. If John does not speak the language how did he communicate? Google translate? Or are there pockets of english speakers everywhere. Hmmm?

[@VagabondAwake]

Educated Vietnamese and young Vietnamese speak English. That is why he has so many doctor freinds and educated people. :-)

[@DaNangJohnS]

You are spot on that Google translate can come in handy. Some of the best conversations are at sidewalk popup 3-4 hour coffee carts in-front of someone’s home. In my case, I ended up becoming friends with an entire extended family over time at one such location.

[@formica.]

Not really "pockets". The more upscale areas of cities have more educated people. My bold friend would just speak to everyone in English with an Aussie smile, and he got a higher hit rate in Saigon than I would have expected! There are also lots of expats from around the world to make friends with.

[@VittoShulman]

Some especially younger and college educated Vietnamese speak English. The interesting thing - they actually seek you out because they also want to practice their English and I think to show off in front their friends too. If you look friendly and approachable people will actually come and talk to you: at coffee shop, on a beach, at a park etc, even your neighbors.

[@CT-ig2oz]

Safety concerns is most worried topic besides with $ issue. I am vietnamse, not thinking will coming back to retirement!

[@VagabondAwake]

The grass is always greener. I am not interested in my home country either.

[@josephcohen9480]

I love his strategy but i dont drink coffee for some reason it makes my elbow and knee joints ache ive heard its a very rare thing. Hopefully the places also serve tea. Im not a big beer guy too, like to stay slim.

[@VagabondAwake]

Yes, they have tea and juices also.

[@formica.]

Hot chocolate is my drink! Some places also have smoothies.

[@tomscott7013]

$16 per day?, like you say Dan, best to come over see for yourself and your situation.

[@martindeleon5113]

Good morning, how can I get in contact with John. I will be landing in Da Nang on June 3rd and could use his help looking for a place to stay.

[@VagabondAwake]

Hello @martindeleon5113, I don't have their permission to share their email in a public forum like this. But if you send me an email, I will forward it to them. Just grab a free copy of my eBook and then reply to my email when I send you the link to the free eBook. Here is the link to get the free eBook: vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/ Best, Dan

[@hump1953]

I visited Vietnam in 2020 and spent some time in Danang… very nice city

[@pathkris2984]

Are those green guavas in the bag shown at 5:16? Thanks.

[@VagabondAwake]

Yes. They were delicious!

[@pathkris2984]

@@VagabondAwake Thanks :)

[@bapluda]

How many border runs you can do per year? Or how many days you can stay in Vietnam as a tourist per calendar year?

[@DaNangJohnS]

No such limits exist. I know those who drive a motorbike to and from but I prefer LynnVisa. They run a tight ship and I would much rather relax in a full AC bus with Wi-Fi to and from Laos. As long as you follow the rules, you will be good. The most consecutive Visa runs I know of from another expat is 50+

[@Vietnam_Chr0nicles]

I have lived in Lao Cai, Vietnam for 3 years and will be retiring as well. I have a KZbin channel with over 600 videos about life in the North on the China/Vietnam border

[@VagabondAwake]

Hi @Vietnam_Chr0nicles, Would you like to be a guest start on one of my videos? Here is an example guest star video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4SwkGWgdqhnrJY Your interview could be just your voice or we could do a zoom call showing your face. If you would like to be a guest star and share your story please leave a personal message here: vagabondbuddha.com/contact/ Thank you for your comment. The detail of your comment makes this real for people. If you have a business, service, or KZbin channel, you could share that on the interview. Best, Dan

[@Joe-mz6dc]

Frugal and free.

[@ScooterOnHisWay2024]

I am new to Thailand and paid for a multi-entry visa. So I am looking for nearby SE Asian towns to visit, while figuring I'll probably visit family in The US after a year of being here. While I absolutely LOVE Thailand, and think this will eventually be my final destination, I don't want to come this far and not see some other nearby SE Asia destinations. Dan, you and Qiang have sold me on the idea that Da Nang might be the 1st of those places worth a visit. She looks adorable and happy in all of your videos. If anyone here can recommend a specific region/section of Da Nang that might be more foreigner friendly than others for a 2 week visit, please advise. Also, please remind me as to what the initial entry visa situation is. I'll do some online research on my own as well. Thanks in advance to anybody willing to share their wisdom.

[@VagabondAwake]

Stay in the neighborhood where we stayed. First link in the notes below this video.

[@jackhayden3050]

Where in Thailand do you like?

[@DrLusEnglish]

Danang

[@alexk1843]

Any tips to avoid being bitten by a dog? Do you recommend carrying anything like bear spray or a taser to deter a dog?

[@DaNangJohnS]

I now carry a 3 foot section of bamboo just in case but 98% of the dogs seem perfectly fine. The one that got me only barked at me a couple of times. I ignored him and walked past. 15 feet later I felt a back of my calf getting nipped. Random dog territorial behavior.

[@michelcecere7286]

Hello, I just want to add a point : -Health insurance is arround 100-300$ per month -Visa cost could vary ( depending of countries, philipines it's like 50$ per month ) So those points beeing added, I don't see how you can live on 500$ (except not having insurrance ?)

[@DaNangJohnS]

Currently, a Visa border run through a Visa service (luxury bus with Wi-Fi the entire trip) is $125-ish USD every 90-days. The 90-day single entry Visa is $25 USD. Keep in mind, I am deeply immersed and not living like an expat might be. My Viet GF is extremely conservative from an upper class educated family and does not use me as an ATM. She has a good job and pension come retirement. By luck, my now friends through her that introduced me to her are both doctors and engineers. Their knowledge and connections have got me where I am today to only average $500 USD. I eat very well and food is amazing but that means we eat at home 5-6 days per week. I seldom drink alcohol and when I do, it’s a store bought local beer for 12,000 VND. Less than .50 cents USD.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for your thoughts.

[@michelcecere7286]

@@DaNangJohnS thanks for you info, so visa run is tolerated in Vietnam ? It's nice because visa could be quickly expensive. But about the healthcare, you can't be there without any insurance. Even a "cheap" one. Considering that, I prefer to live there without insurance than living in gayropa, even with insurance.

[@DaNangJohnS]

@@michelcecere7286 There is no insurance requirement in Vietnam. There was only during covid. Dan literally just interviewed an expat whose Vietnamese wife had a C-section and 5-night stay at Da Nang hospital and it was $500 USD. Everyone is able to come to their own conclusions but if someone is not healthy, it may be best to remain in their home country. The average costs for healthcare in Vietnam is non-existent but my opinion is based on a small common basic surgery in the USA for a gullible bladder removal is $54,500. Walking through the Emergency Room doors starts at $500-$600. It is completely and sadly out of control now..

[@DaNangJohnS]

@@michelcecere7286 Vietnam does not require insurance so it’s up to anyone living here to decide what’s best. Refer to multiple prior interviews Dan has done where the actual on the ground costs speaking to expats in Da Nang and Hanoi and actually quite low.

[@kamal171]

No matter where you go people are just people some are very successful some are not for you guys keep saying about if you want to lift a like local I don't understand all the local people that don't live the same lifestyle

[@Philippinesbound42]

I love Vietnam dong

[@DaNangJohnS]

Hmm 🤔 I see what you did there. 😆

[@strangeanimal1535]

Valuable information is key. Do your research diligently. Asia ain't Kansas Dorothy.

[@user-ci2mn1oy3w]

Medical insurance/treatments in Mexico are much cheaper than in the US. Live close to the border and you can live just fine on the $80 per week sales of your plasma in the US. I did so for 3 years. food is free for the asking and you can clean up at a $10 per month Planet Fitness 24-7 gym. You can stretch out half time college loans, 6k per year, for 8 years, folks. You can't do any of that overseas. You can carry a gun in the US, making you MUCH safer., if you keep your heat out of your butt, that is.

[@fendermon]

What about rent? Thanks

[@KMJ1936]

Keep your gun toting arse out of SEAsia

[@VagabondAwake]

This video is not in Mexico. It is in Da Nang Vietnam. And the Medical here is less than half of Mexico in my experience. Thanks for watching. :-)

[@formica.]

You lived on the tropical Mexican border, total income $320/month from blood donations, your bathroom cost $10/month, food was free, and you carried a firearm for safety. Why even watch Vietnam retirement videos, you found paradise already!

[@Nuggetsjourney44]

@@formica. Wahahahaha I love the sarcasm in this, no need for carry permits in Vietnam just like the rest of south east Asia it’s ten times safer than the main 5-6 western countries 👍👍👍

[@KB3TLE]

ANYONE --- I missed the visa cost and departure details ? -- Every 90 days - you do what (?) and pay what (?) in order to be legal ? -- His audio was not very good either. -- And - I'm old and quite slow ! - - - ?

[@DaNangJohnS]

Reach out to LynnVisa if you are in Da Nang or Hoi An for their cost. As for Vietnam. it’s $25 USD per 90-days for single entry & $50 USD for multiple entries if you are traveling around SE Asia in & out of Vietnam.

[@Hard_Car_Life]

Very bad audio sometimes

[@VagabondAwake]

Sorry. :-) Zoom is better some days than others.

[@SimpleLivingForever]

So you are saying every 3 months we have to travel out of the country? It sounds like the millionaire lifestyle to me and I love it so far! Great video as always Sir. ❤️

[@DaNangJohnS]

@KB32LE - I can now add the Visa cost side of it. When I do my first Visa run, I am paying 5 million 250,000. 3.150 million are all my costs for the full process. The only reason I am paying 5.250 million is I am taking my Viet fiancé with me so we get the scenery experience side of it and a couple of hours in Laos. Certainly no vacation but we are curious about the scenery. We hear it is exceptional in large parts of the trip through the mountains.

[@woody3167]

Great report. As a 65 year old American that just retired, I did not hear any information about whether Vietnam imposes a double tax on income from the U.S. (staying over 180+ days there, or accumulating it?). Do you or Dan know of basic tax laws, or of a regional tax professional that I can contact that knows if Vietnam grants "tax credits" for income that is already taxed in the U.S.

[@DaNangJohnS]

It’s such a moving target for SE Asia. The best advice I can give is to reach out to expat tax services based in the USA. They will be the ones I am going to go through since it’s their job to keep up on things. (You might be surprised what you learn on the allowed income etc.)

[@BrMark-cu9ih]

Check out: Greenback expat tax services

[@VagabondAwake]

Many countries don't start trying to tax you until you have spent over 180 days or so there. But I don't give tax advice. I would ask a professional about that. Listening to untrained tubers about concepts that require licensing is a bad idea.

[@woody3167]

@@DaNangJohnS Mucho Gras

[@woody3167]

@@VagabondAwake Thank you VA

[@fazbell]

No "wiggle room" in that budget. I don't know how he does it.

[@DaNangJohnS]

You have to eat at home but also eat mostly Vietnamese food. As an example, the last two weeks has been just over 1 million VND for all food at $43 USD. Grab rides was another $23 USD. Haircuts etc. $18 USD. Keep in mind, couples make $200-$500 as a family and live solid middle class. It’s all possible but most will likely average $700-$1200.

[@Cambodiavibe]

Da Nang is not a walkable city. Yes your local expat neighbourhood is but Da Nang is much more than My An. A scooter is not difficult to learn and gives you total independence in Da Nang. Don't be scared or put people off Dan 😊

[@DaNangJohnS]

Well… The 200+ miles I have tracked so far suggests otherwise. No question on the sheer size of Da Nang. I will walk thousands of miles before I properly canvas all of Da Nang. 😊 I will eventually outright buy a motorbike. I am not in a hurry since my Viet GF takes care of me or I just use Grab bikes and cars. Grab is phenomenal for the low cost.

[@VagabondAwake]

We walked everywhere. But we have riding scooters before.

[@pentrubarbati]

I need to get out of europe sadly i have no remote income only a rent for an apartment that s not enough :(

[@VagabondAwake]

Bummer.

[@georgemahlum6542]

How do you retire in Vietnam...I could be wrong ...but...currently. Vietnam does not have a retirement visa..

[@DaNangJohnS]

You must do border runs. If you marry in country to a Vietnamese, the Visas are quite lengthy.

[@kevinn2216]

That's right. They don't. But I seem to recollect hearing that they have one-year multi-entry visas which would be the next best thing. There are ways and means of staying indefinitely.

[@VagabondAwake]

Many exapts have been in Vietnam for years despite lack of Retirement visa and not getting married.

[@Re3iRtH]

He looks like a young guy. What is he doing for Visa considerations? Vietnam and Thailand have a very strict Visa policy at the moment

[@Re3iRtH]

I personally know people who were doingVisa runs every 90 days in Thailand and they were denied entry after the third time in 1 year. In other words they were only able to stay 9 months in a 12 month period. Not sure Vietnam is the same but I would imagine so

[@VagabondAwake]

Every country has their own visa laws. People have been doing visa runs here for years.

[@DaNangJohnS]

@@Re3iRtH I have not heard such stories in Vietnam and there are many expats in Thailand not getting denied who have been doing Visa runs for years on end. I bet you they were denied for a reason.

[@ThuyPham-lr5dc]

Kona Coffee..if you know, you know!

[@DaNangJohnS]

#Facts 😊

[@Re3iRtH]

In which neighborhood in Da Nang does he live?

[@VagabondAwake]

I didn't ask. But he said he is only 10 minute walk from tourist area which you can find at the first link in the notes below this video.

[@FOCUSonASIA13]

I applaud anyone who is happy and content living in Southeast Asia on a small budget but the reality is most people cannot do it. They need to come over with a more realistic budget in mind, I recommend minimum of $1500 a month for 1 person, 2-3K for 2 people. Can you live on less of course but why chance it and risk happiness in your retirement life. We have seen too many people, specially here in Philippines, go broke and end up homeless or going back to their home country because they were not prepared financially.

[@DaNangJohnS]

What you say is certainly a good idea for those that believe they need steak daily and a caviar and wine lifestyle. It just depends on lifestyle. If you review Dan’s prior budget updates on living in Da Nang for 30 days, it was between $700-$800 for each person. In other expat interview videos I have come across, incredible homes are being rented for $400 USD. No one I have seen interviewed has averaged $1000 USD despite living in a swanky house plus utilities, food, and their motorbikes. That doesn’t go to say it is not possible. If you prefer Western food, it will definitely spike your costs.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks guys! :-) And you should never move anywhere without doing a temporary exploratory visit 2 weeks to 2 months to determine where you would rent, eat, and how you would entertain yourself and add all of that up. It doesn't matter what anyone else spends. You are not them. You have to do that before making any permanent decisions.

[@FOCUSonASIA13]

@@VagabondAwake Great points Dan, exploratory visit throughout SEA would be the way to go, each country has its Pros and Cons and each person has different wants and needs!

[@FOCUSonASIA13]

@@DaNangJohnS Ya I wouldn't go that far in regards to steak and caviar, just eating western foods, even cooking them at your home will raise your budget some. Also some people cannot live without their vices like alcohol and cigs etc. As well as aircon. Each persons budget will be different

[@stevenhull5025]

Most people who are struggling financially in the US would be better off living in Asia even on just 500 bucks.

[@Delta922]

Can I rent an apartment for a month there?

[@paulz6491]

Yes I used air bnb to stay 1 month in Hanoi and had a great time.

[@VagabondAwake]

We did. See where. The first link in the notes below the video.

[@Delta922]

@@VagabondAwake Thanks

[@divinaflamingarrow9556]

How many senior women do border runs alone?

[@VagabondAwake]

Vietnam is not a female unfriendly country.

[@jimferguson3776]

How does a relatively young person "retire" in Vietnam? What visa does he have???

[@jimferguson3776]

I asked before I watched to the end. He has a 90 day visa and does visa runs....

[@formica.]

Some people have money. $120,000 in the bank @ 5% returns $500/month. Although that isn't enough for most people.

[@georgemahlum6542]

@@jimferguson3776 Only so many runs before you are out for 6 months or so....currently....Vietnam does not have a retirement vise.

[@karibakid]

@@georgemahlum6542 where id you get this info on the visa situ totaly incorrect

[@DaNangJohnS]

@@formica. 😊 Well said. Interest adds up.

[@CarsonBoyd]

Your links aren't working.

[@VagabondAwake]

I just checked them all and they are fine. Do you know of a specific link that I can fix that I am not finding? :-)

[@CarsonBoyd]

It was the top link in your description. I also was not able to login to your site. It must have been a hiccup in your hosting, but it's working now.

[@user-ti8xm7wz8w]

how is the english over there

[@DaNangJohnS]

Hit and miss. If you are in the main tourist areas, the English is good for those under 30 years old. The tourist area hotels will have at least one good English speaker. I have a Vietnamese teacher now so I am learning quickly. I still rely on Google Translation for the camera feature. It changes the language into English and I use it to converse with everyone here. To include, my Viet GF.

[@uncareid5557]

$2000. airfare and a 30 to 40 hour flight. Wow. Got to be a better way to get there. Perhaps a cargo ship.

[@VagabondAwake]

Star Track Transporter

[@nala3038]

@@VagabondAwakenice!

[@PsychNurse.]

Any tsunami, earthquake, monsoon?

[@DaNangJohnS]

No, No, and Yes. Monsoon season is September-March. (4-6 Typhoons are the average June-November.)

[@saintluke2nd]

What if I don’t drink coffee? Haha just kidding

[@VagabondAwake]

Tea, juices, beer?

[@judyutah]

Confused. Who is the older guy, with short, spiked up hair (see him clearly at 11:00) and he's walking around thru the video. He doesn't like like Vagabond Awake, nor like the man talking and being interviewed. Confusing.

[@VagabondAwake]

Me

[@divinaflamingarrow9556]

How are independent single senior women addressed there?

[@VagabondAwake]

Sir and mam if they don't know your name.

[@China786]

The voice quality is not good

[@VagabondAwake]

Sorry.

[@Filippines.FeverDream]

Don’t do this. Put your time in and earn your social security.

[@VagabondAwake]

If you log into the social security webpage, it will tell you when you are eligible to get your check at retirement.

[@SenorJuan2023]

People keep touting Vietnam despite the fact that long term/retirement visas rarely exist, SO why mention it?

[@paulz6491]

Because some people don’t mind doing Visa runs 4 times a year.

[@SenorJuan2023]

@@paulz6491 Won't Vietnam crack down on that at some point?

[@paulz6491]

Yes you’re right they could always crackdown although it seems unlikely as tourists and expats bring a lot of money to Vietnam.

[@VagabondAwake]

Many people like seeing nearby countries anyway. So how does a visa run hurt that? It doesn't. Just do 4 weekend trips per year. Easy peasy.

[@VagabondAwake]

Vietnam has been allowing visa runs for a very long time. Why would they stop that after the pandemic when they need the $$?

[@andynguyen979]

There is no way you can live $500 a month.

[@DaNangJohnS]

Speak for yourself stating that but I do live on $500 USD. I eat well. Live in a well known nice neighborhood close to everything, and right now my Viet GF is making shrimp for lunch. $7.80 in fresh caught shrimp with enough for 5 meals in total. You can live well the way I do but I respect and agree most “think” they need $200 USD per night hotels and $600+ apartments in Hitori tower and they spend $8-$30 USD every single meal. To each their own. Thank you for your insight. 😉

[@VagabondAwake]

Average salary in Vietnam. www.timechamp.io/blogs/what-is-the-average-salary-in-vietnam/

[@andynguyen979]

@@VagabondAwake that is average salary in vn not each city. I live in Da Nang also. I live in little studio condo and i am pretty sure you can not get by $500. Dont forget little tiny expenses.

[@andynguyen979]

@@VagabondAwake you really dont understand vietnamese culture and how they getting by little as $500.

[@andynguyen979]

@@VagabondAwake lets meet in Danang or any larger city and we can do a video how much can you live on $500 a month for western standard or vietnamese standard. That would be more accurate.

[@worldlydestinations]

Sorry but I don’t buy what he’s Saying. I just left after 4 months and $500 is BS but $1000 is more like it. 😂

[@VagabondAwake]

He is not a liar. Your numbers are just more common. Try not to be rude on my channel please.

[@DaNangJohnS]

Everyone’s lifestyle is different. It is also extremely difficult to get conservative Vietnamese woman to date you. Lots of customs & family hurdles & grilling from the elders. If you can make the right friends and stay out of the overpriced expat bar’s & restaurants, you can live on $400-$450 even. It’s 100% who you know combined with lifestyle.

[@DaNangJohnS]

1 other note - I have been offered 3 bedroom beautiful homes for 7 million VND/$280 USD per month. The culture is 100% who you befriend.

[@robertmiur2388]

@@VagabondAwakewell said

[@es9415]

​@@VagabondAwake Vagabond, the OP is not necessarily being rude; he, or she is just stating that $500 sounds like a pipe dream for the average westerner who is used to living a more middle class lifestyle that Includes having expendable $$ for emergencies, medical costs, travel, relationships....etc...etc. With today's inflation, North of $500 is more realistic........ so, $1000 sounds about right.

[@dimplypaprika7693]

I am interested in retiring in VN but I am a bit worried about living in a communist country. As an American we hear horror stories about Communist countries so I am not sure what to expect. Maybe not as bad as I fear it will be.

[@Lyn-ky9vr]

as an American we are THE MOST PROPAGANDIZED population on the PLANET!!!!!!! So if I were you I would go and see for yourself and then make your move from there.

[@VagabondAwake]

Put your toe in the water. We grew up thinking one thing and it turns out not everything we were told is 100% true. It is true the government is communist, but the citizens practically all have a business or two in their home. Guess what that means?

[@DaNangJohnS]

The locals call it “The American War” and the average age is 32 years old. Most of the country is well past those years now. Kids of all ages seem to love foreigners and they practice their English skills talking with you as you walk past. As long as you remember being a guest and keep all opinions internal, you might find a surprising amount of freedom vs. an understandable perception. Especially for those who were here during those years 50+ years ago.

[@formica.]

It is a one party Communist government, and the creepy hammer&sickle and red star flags everywhere remind westerners of USSR, China, Khmer Rouge horrors. I think that to Vietnamese, the symbols persist to honor Uncle Ho's revolution which led to Viet independence. In 8 years I haven't seen where foreigners were singled out for any abuse. The government is better described as authoritarian, like most countries in the world. You want to steer clear of the court system, don't break the law, penalties are harsh, there are no citizen or consumer protections, or public attorneys, forget about suing people, etc.

[@Lyn-ky9vr]

@@formica. The U.S. government is also a ONE PARTY system

[@TheGreatEscape9833]

If there is a chance he’s living off $500/mo it’s a shit lifestyle. To live a good life anywhere over here on this side of the world, minimum $1500/mo to live a GOOD QUALITY life.

[@Nuggetsjourney44]

Some people I guess ain’t into consumerism like the west has trained others into, I’m living in Australia only spending 400-600 a week living very comfortably but if I take that into s/e asia I’d easily live off 250-300 or less a week matey, 5 years ago I watched a vlogger say something that changed my view on “what we really need on our person” He said “if it is really needed & cannot fit into a backpack or suitcase then is it really needed” a minimalist outlook is amazing once you embrace it, yes it’s not everyone’s cup of tea but it’s still something to think about… Japanese minimalist’s have a 30-40 items/inanimate objects rule to live with, I’m doing that and I’ve saved tens of thousands of dollars and have more free time than I ever did thinking I needed the latest gadgets or gimmicks ✌🏾 It’s enabled me to semi retire at 43 yrs of age and I couldn’t be happier 🙏🏽

[@lannyjr1042]

If you're not into clubbing, drinking & smoking then it's easy under $500. Local average salary is about $250 so

[@DaNangJohnS]

I believe you are way off track to my quality of life here. You must waste a lot of money on things but I do not judge how others spend or waste money. I also question your level of knowledge for living here. No personal offense meant but your comment is so far from reality on the ground here.

[@DaNangJohnS]

@@lannyjr1042 You are corect. Nationwide, average is $175 USD. Average couples make between $200-$500 USD and live a solid middle class lifestyle here.

[@Nuggetsjourney44]

@@DaNangJohnS spot on mate

[@VagabondAwake]

Dan's Da Nang Resources and links to everything: vagabondbuddha.com/retire-in-da-nang-vietnam/ 𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝗘-𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞→ 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗕𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/ 𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗽 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱𝘄𝗶𝗱𝗲☆★☆ vagabondbuddha.com/ 𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗥oad Map to Freedom Overseas (Retire Overseas Course)☆★☆ vagabondbuddha.com/courses/the-retire-overseas-course/ 𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲 $$$ 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝗯𝗯𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀e vagabondbuddha.com/courses/the-hobby-income-course/ Health Insurance I Bought (Free ebook, Video, Agent, not affiliate link): vagabondbuddha.com/expat-health-insurance-ebook/ What kinds of risks are you taking if you move overseas? vagabondbuddha.com/our-liability-disclaimer-the-risk-is-on-you/

[@Lucano1957]

❤

[@SenorJuan2023]

What long term visa does he have?

[@sentinel80]

Not the same old… same old….. foreign living on $500. Yawn 💤

[@VagabondAwake]

I'll wake you when it's over