LocalsVN
12 Guides & Counting

Expat Guides for Vietnam

Everything you need to live, work, and thrive in Vietnam. Written for expats, by people who've done it.

Visas & Legals

Everything about Vietnam visas, work permits, and legal requirements for foreigners.

Housing & Accommodation

Find the right home, understand rental contracts, and navigate the Vietnamese property market.

Finances & Banking

Open a bank account, manage money, and understand the cost of living in Vietnam.

More Guides

Practical guides on getting around, staying safe, and living well.

The Unspoken Rules of Driving in Vietnam: Police Stops & "Coffee Money"

The taboo guide no official tourism board will publish. Learn the reality of International Driving Permits, how to handle traffic police stops, and avoiding rental passport hostage scams.

10 min read

The Ultimate $30/Day Solo Travel Budget for Da Nang (2026)

An exhaustive, line-by-line budget breakdown for solo backpackers and digital nomads living in Da Nang. Find out exactly what $30 a day gets you, from beachside apartments to street food.

12 min read

Is Ho Chi Minh City Safe for Solo Female Travelers? (2026 Guide)

An honest, detailed safety guide for solo female backpackers and expats visiting Saigon. Learn about common scams, safe neighborhoods, and essential tips for navigating the city securely.

8 min read

Where to Stay in Hanoi for Solo Travelers: Old Quarter vs. Tay Ho

A no-nonsense neighborhood guide for solo travelers and digital nomads in Hanoi. Detailed breakdown of Hoan Kiem, Ba Dinh, and West Lake (Tay Ho).

8 min read

Where to Stay in Hoi An for Solo Travelers: Beach vs Ancient Town

The ultimate solo traveler accommodation guide to Hoi An. Breaking down An Bang Beach, Cam Chau, and the Ancient Town for backpackers and nomads.

7 min read

Is Phu Quoc Worth Visiting in 2026? (A Brutally Honest Solo Travel Guide)

With new direct international flights and controversial mega-resorts, is Vietnam's largest island a tropical paradise or a tourist trap for solo travelers?

8 min read

How Much Does a Month in Vietnam Cost? (Real Digital Nomad Expenses)

A brutally honest breakdown of the true cost of living in Vietnam for digital nomads and slow-traveling expats in 2026. Da Nang vs HCMC vs Hanoi.

9 min read

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