

Chelsea Gallagher
Canadian expat in Vietnam
About me
Canadian
Lives in Ho Chi Minh City
Registration: 18 June 2024
Articles written by Chelsea Gallagher

Hoi An is a bustling tourism hub and might be a calling to expats seeking the joys of fresh connections or providing information to tourists passing through. Since the past years' crises, Hoi An has bounced back and is thriving with an energy that might be what you are searching for as an expat considering living and working in Vietnam. Read on to learn about popular industries and the best way to find a job in this historical coastal town.
14 April 2025
Located in the central region of Vietnam, Huế is recognized as a cultural hub of the country and full of natural resources. While it has a very welcoming local community, living here will require a willingness to learn Vietnamese to make life easier. Recruiters will search for foreigners with skills related to the agro-industry or the emerging technology sectors. Here's everything you need to know to find the right career in Central Vietnam.
14 April 2025
If you are considering moving to Vietnam but want to avoid the bigger cities, Hai Phong might be the ideal destination. As a smaller northern city, it has the charm and community Ha Noi is known for at a fraction of the living cost. Learn more about working in Hai Phong and what to expect as a new expat!
14 April 2025
If you are planning on staying in Vietnam for a significant amount of time, buying a condo or getting involved in a commercial investment might be on your radar. In this article, we are going to share several pieces of important and up-to-date information on the process of purchasing property in Vietnam.
14 April 2025
Congratulations on moving to Vietnam! This country is full of resplendence, character, and charm. The scenery is truly mind-blowing, the gastronomy will leave you stuffed, and the people are warm and welcoming. Vietnam is a true gem of Southeast Asia and will offer you kindness at every corner. Unfortunately, accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. Use this article to understand emergency services in Vietnam and get the help you need quickly to recover safely.
14 April 2025
Moving to Vietnam is going to present you with an abundance of challenges, from the logistical aspect to customs and traditions to finding a school for your children, to setting up bank accounts. There are dozens of hurdles to negotiate. Healthcare in Vietnam is one of the assortments of obstacles that must be negotiated successfully to ensure your stay is as pleasant as possible.
14 April 2025
Located in the province of Quang Nam, a short 30 km south of Da Nang, Hoi An is a popular tourist destination. Hoi An is considered a living museum, and in December 1999, it was indexed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It's your one-stop shop for culture, history, beaches, and iconic Vietnam lanterns. Read on to discover why you need to visit Hoi An, the historic city in Vietnam.
12 April 2025
Located at the southwest tip of Vietnam, Phu Quoc Island, also known as Pearl Island, is part of the Kien Giang province. With a history of conflict and a future built on hope, the land borders of this beautiful island also border Thailand and Cambodia. With around 149,000 inhabitants, the Phu Quoc peninsula consists of 22 islands covering an area of approximately 585 km², but tourists will tend to spend their time on the central namesake island. Above all, it is a popular tourist region known for starfish-covered beaches, beautiful coral, indigenous forests, and picturesque landscapes.
12 April 2025
We know there's a lot of attention on the drinking culture in Hanoi, but what about the options for a healthy lifestyle? Hanoians are no strangers to exercise and love a good workout, as an integral part of everyday life. A quick drive around the city before sunrise will deliver you an assortment of aerobics, popular sports, casual runners, cyclists, and everything in between. So, if you are searching for the best local options for sports, read on!
12 April 2025
If you are looking for an affordable destination with beautiful landscapes, culture, and delicious cuisine, Vietnam needs to be on your radar. With activities ranging from visiting World Heritage-listed sites, natural parks, and beautiful beaches to traditional locations preserving traces of the past, Vietnam caters to every type of traveler. Forge your path and find adventure, all while surrounded by a vibrant history in Southeast Asia.
12 April 2025
A wide range of sports and recreational activities are available to locals and expatriates in Vietnam. Gyms, playgrounds, and fitness sites are plentiful in major cities, including mountain biking, trekking, golf, and yoga, and cater to all skill levels.
12 April 2025
Booking accommodation in Vietnam is easy, as there is an abundance of options and a spectrum of listings to suit every budget. This article will review standard accommodation options, such as hotels and hostels, and dive deeper into rental costs per city on longer-term private accommodation like apartments and villas. We will also share several resources to enable informed decisions on finding accommodation in Vietnam that makes this new country feel like home.
12 April 2025
If you have decided to settle in Vietnam, you will definitely need to open a bank account. Not only will this be the easiest way for your salary to be deposited, but you can also pay directly through QR codes at many shops or restaurants. While you are able to open a bank account as an expat in Vietnam, there are a couple of things you need to know first.
12 April 2025
Vietnam does not have a digital nomad visa and does not support welcoming tourists under a digital nomadic umbrella. However, if you are planning to work remotely while on a holiday, you can enjoy the comfort of many coworking spaces and secure internet connection. Here's an overview of what you can expect if you're contemplating a move to Vietnam as a digital nomad.
12 April 2025
Foreign entrepreneurs from across the globe have been landing in Asia for decades. Vietnam was ranked as one of the top six fastest-growing nations in terms of its economy in 2024. Stop watching from a distance and learn how to set up a business in Vietnam.
12 April 2025
Entering a new country will entail going through their customs and immigration process. While this process is relatively smooth, patience is key. If you are arriving in Vietnam via Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat International Airport) or Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport) there will be many clear signs indicating which way to go. Use this article to find out what else you should know and have ready for inspection and immigration and customs in Vietnam.
12 April 2025
Interning can be a wonderful, eye-opening way to experience a new country, culture, and work climate in your profession of choice. Internships are available in Vietnam, and there are a number of opportunities for young people to get their foot in the door of this exciting and rapidly growing country.
12 April 2025
Vietnam is an emerging country to keep an eye on and has a wide variety of unique opportunities for everyone. From art to history and IT to the pharmaceutical field, your learning opportunities, personally and intellectually, are endless. Local universities and colleges continue to enhance their academic standards and facilities and draw students from around the world. Read on for an overview of the application process and insights into student life as an expat considering studying in Vietnam.
12 April 2025
If you are planning to move to Vietnam with a pet, here are the key areas to focus on, including your pet's medical records and your passport. Requirements are subject to change, so it is recommended that you check the import requirements for animals with the Vietnamese authorities as well as the travel conditions with your carrier.
12 April 2025
Are you considering a move to Vietnam, or have you recently been offered a job at a Vietnamese company? Packing up your life and moving to any new place can be daunting, but with patience and preparation, this might be the best thing you've ever done! Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime as you find out why you should (or should not) move to Vietnam.
12 April 2025
Anyone thinking about working in Vietnam is in for a treat. Compared to many Western countries, Vietnam's workforce operates in accordance with an entirely different range of customs and traditions. We have compiled the most recent information on the Vietnamese job market to familiarize you with the job-hunting process.
12 April 2025
Before you move to Vietnam, it is prudent to get up to speed on local tax laws. As with any country, this is likely to be the most tiresome and confusing part of the transition. Learn how to operate your business and file personal taxes legally and within compliance.
12 April 2025
If you are relocating to Vietnam, sampling as much as possible of the delicious cuisine needs to be a top priority. Read on to discover what to expect and how to navigate dietary restrictions abroad.
12 April 2025
Having a visa to enter Vietnam is a mandatory process. Tourist visas are available from one to three months and certain countries do receive visa-free arrival for forty-five days. This article will outline the different levels of visas available and how to complete the process stress-free.
12 April 2025
The city of Nha Trang, located in the province of Khanh Hoa, thrives on tourism. If you are looking for a job in Nha Trang, you need to ensure that your skill set is in demand and not already met by the local labor market.
12 April 2025
Vietnam is a country of striking contrasts, where ancient traditions meet rapid modernization. Stretching along Southeast Asia's eastern coast, it offers a vibrant mix of landscapes, cultures, and histories—from the misty mountains of the north to the bustling energy of the south. Shaped by centuries of change, Vietnam embraces its past while looking firmly to the future. Warm, welcoming, and resilient, its people and places offer a deep, authentic experience for those willing to explore beyond the surface. This guide will take you through the regions, culture, and everyday life that make Vietnam truly unforgettable.
12 April 2025
A foodie's utopia, Hanoi is not only the capital of Vietnam but also a fierce contender for the best cuisine in the country. Decorated with food vendors, hole-in-the-wall hidden gems, and upmarket dining choices, Hanoi will make you feel like food royalty. While your taste buds are singing, your wallet doesn't need to worry. These dishes are perfect for the backpacker's budget and long-term residents, but the concoction of unique flavors will leave you craving for more.
12 April 2025
Characterized by rivers of motorbikes and waves of roaring horns, Vietnam's capital city promises an unparalleled charm and intrigue within moments of arriving. A collage of conical hats (known as Non-La), food hawkers, and motorbikes transporting almost anything imaginable, paints a remarkable picture and defines the truly magical aura. A welcome mat of helpful locals and tantalizing smells can be expected within moments of stepping outside the airport. However, this is just the tip of the Hanoi iceberg!
12 April 2025
Finding a job in Hanoi may not be too challenging if you are in a niche career field or have been in discussions with recruiters. Despite being from a foreign country, there is an abundance of opportunities for any person with an appropriate skill set. This article will guide you through your job search in Hanoi, with insights into the labor market and the work environment.
12 April 2025
With Vietnam a rising star on the international stage, the capital city of Hanoi is experiencing a plethora of exciting and innovative projects in the pipeline. Vietnam's capital city's middle class has been rapidly growing over the past few years, and the housing market is steadily accelerating. Transportation upgrades, including a metro line, green buses, and a focus on green fuel, Hanoi should never be underestimated.
12 April 2025
If you're single and ready to mingle, this article will help you understand the dos and don'ts of dating in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. In some ways, dating today can feel one-dimensional, and meeting people on or off the apps provides creative challenges. What sets Vietnam apart is also the language barrier and meeting the right person who shares your interests to make the experience fun for everyone involved!
10 April 2025
If you are moving to Vietnam with young children, you might be looking for a safe and nurturing place to look after them whilst you are at work. While having a family helper is very popular in Vietnam, you may also want to consider a nursery or kindergarten.
10 April 2025
During your stay in Vietnam, you will be moving around, and often, the sidewalks in rush hour become extensions of the road. If you are walking with headphones, remember to check over your shoulder to avoid an accident or listen for a warning honk! Whether you are going to work, meeting friends for a drink, or exploring a new district, there are various means of transportation in the country.
10 April 2025
Vietnam holds a powerful intrigue for many visitors. Recognized internationally for delicious food, a vibrant culture, and friendly citizens, traveling to Vietnam needs to be on everyone's bucket list. The nation continues to develop international relationships and extend their list of countries eligible to enter without a visa and travel for a maximum of 45 days. Find out how your passport is accepted by the Vietnamese government and plan accordingly to make the most out of your experience.
10 April 2025
Have you met that perfect someone that you want to spend the rest of your life with? Luckily, getting married in Vietnam is feasible and achievable. In this article, we will highlight all parties eligible for marriage in Vietnam and provide you with the most up-to-date information on necessary documentation.
10 April 2025
Enrolling at university is an exciting milestone in any young adult's life. For many prospective students, it combines the whirlwind of emotion from leaving home to managing finances and household chores independently. Student life in Hanoi, on average, is comfortable, social, and affordable. The city is easy to move around on public transportation or drive-sharing apps, plus there are a variety of student discounts to enjoy throughout Hanoi's many restaurants, bars, and entertainment complexes.
10 April 2025
Hanoi is growing exponentially and investing in its education sector. In 2024, Vietnam ranked 53rd in the world for education and continues to gain more attention and traction as it attracts thousands of international students annually. Students enrolled in universities in Hanoi choose to live close to the city center, which also provides a unique cultural exchange. This article gives you an insight into Hanoi's higher education scene to help you plan your move.
10 April 2025
Formerly known as Thang Long, Vietnam's present capital city was renamed Hanoi in 1831. This enchanting, traditional city is bounteous with juxtapositions and tends to be either loved or hated by its many visitors. Old meet new in many areas, thanks to a spellbinding mixture of colonialist architecture and modern innovations. The pace of life seems to approach Mach 2 at times, but on the flip side, every street is lined with greenery and garnished with a medley of locals enjoying tea and sidewalk chess matches.
10 April 2025
Adjectives like "historic", "beautiful", and "full of charm" are all synonymous with the wonderful city of Hanoi. As Vietnam's capital since the mid-twentieth century, Hanoi has seen dozens of highs and lows. Nonetheless, the 21st century is proving to be incredibly prosperous for Vietnam's economy, and the capital city is seeing the lion's share of that action. Find out where to live and build your base in one of these accommodation options in Hanoi.
10 April 2025
Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam, and its roads accommodate more than a million vehicles. A glance down at the street from any high-rise building will stun you with a symphony of motorbikes, buses, trucks, cars, and bicycles in between. Although many regard Hanoi as a city with one of the most chaotic traffic systems in the world, it somehow manages to work. But amidst this vehicular anarchy, how do you plan to get around during your stay in this fast-moving capital?
10 April 2025
The telecommunications sector in Vietnam has flourished throughout the past two decades, and just like the rest of the world, Vietnamese citizens are on their cell phones 24 hours a day. If you are trying to find a landline in Vietnam, it will be a struggle, but finding a cell phone or using an international eSIM is very simple.
10 April 2025
In the bustling city of Hanoi, making new friends involves a blend of digital savvy and traditional charm. This guide offers insights into using popular networking apps and engaging in community activities to weave into the local social fabric. From professional networking events to casual hangouts, and understanding the cultural dos and don'ts, we cover the essential avenues for forming meaningful connections. This guide explores the best ways to expand your social and professional circles in Vietnam's vibrant capital.
10 April 2025
Hanoi has an attraction to suit every taste and budget. From bustling marketplaces to beautiful murals, Hanoi qualifies as a shopper's paradise and a cultural kaleidoscope. Keep reading to find out what's in store within this intriguing city!
10 April 2025
While many expats arrive in Vietnam excited to explore the diverse landscapes and eat delicious foods, they are pleasantly surprised by diversity and inclusion, especially in the workplace. You may not expect the country to be as welcoming or open to the idea of diversity in the workplace, but Vietnam is quickly becoming a global player in many diverse sectors and fields.
06 March 2025
Depending on your industry and patience, finding a job in Vietnam can be a challenge. Many companies and local businesses are encouraged by the Vietnamese government to recruit local citizens. To be able to recruit foreign professionals, companies must prove that the skills required for these specific jobs are not available locally. Foreign companies can only recruit 3% of foreign employees in accordance with legal provisions. Here is some general information on the Vietnamese labor market in 2023.
19 November 2023
Vietnam is known for four categories of lush and diverse landscapes, and one of the easiest ways to see firsthand is by driving a scooter. From the mountain ranges of the north to the vibrant Mekong Delta and the central beaches in between, driving can expedite your adventure. However, high reward comes with high risks that you cannot overlook. Read on and learn about the laws of driving in Vietnam, terminology to watch out for, and things to consider for your safety and make an informed decision on your upcoming trip.
19 November 2023
Vietnam is currently ranked 39th internationally for internet connection and has an average download speed of 91.60mbps. There are various Internet service providers available at competitive rates, allowing for easy access and keeping in touch with friends and family.
19 November 2023
With Vietnam's new visa regulations, you will need to secure a job before entering the country. Opportunities to start as a tourist are fleeting and will cause unnecessary stress. Keep in mind that if you arrive on an employment contract and want to terminate early, your employer can cancel your visa and residence permit. The good news is that networking is your best bet to switch careers or find opportunities, meaning what you put into your career in Vietnam is what you will get out of it.
19 November 2023
Hanoi's services sector is growing exponentially, and foreign trade is at an all-time high. Agriculture has always been an essential part of the local economy, especially as Vietnam is one of the biggest rice exporters in the world. Thanks to improving technologies, as well as other entities, there is a new range of opportunities for the Hanoi expat community, making finding a job in Hanoi undoubtedly much easier compared to similar cities around the world.
19 November 2023
Working in Hanoi understandably brings up a lot of questions. Thoughts like, what is the work culture like? Or, what is the work-life balance expectation? Even more importantly, how do I immerse myself without embarrassing myself? In reality, things are nowhere near as bad as your nerves may be projecting. If you do not speak Vietnamese, rest assured your employers will speak English during work-related discussions or social gatherings. Colleagues are usually eager to help you learn Vietnamese and will enthusiastically help you try new foods.
19 November 2023