Living in Vietnam: How to Find the Perfect Place to Stay

So you've decided to take the plunge and move to Vietnam, whether for a few months or a few years. Finding a place to stay in this vibrant Southeast Asian country is an exciting challenge. Do you go the boutique hotel route and treat yourself to luxury amenities and services? Or save some dough and opt for a budget backpacker hostel where you can swap travel tales with fellow nomads? For longer stays, a rented apartment or villa might suit your needs better. The options are plentiful in Vietnam’s cities and beach towns.

This article will walk you through the pros and cons of Hanoi’s charming colonial hotels, Ho Chi Minh City’s sleek high-rise apartments, beach bungalows along the coast, and everything in between. We’ll help you navigate rental costs, amenities, and desirable neighborhoods so you can find your perfect Vietnamese abode, whether it’s for a short adventure or the long haul. Vietnam has so much to offer, so make sure you have a comfortable place to rest your head at the end of each day exploring this dynamic country. The adventure awaits!

Hotels and Resorts: Best for Short-Term Stays

If you're only staying in Vietnam for a short vacation or business trip, hotels and resorts are your best option. You'll get amenities like housekeeping, gyms, pools, and restaurants to make your stay comfortable.

There are hotels for any budget in Vietnam. Mid-range hotels, around $30 to $100 per night, offer clean rooms with air conditioning, TVs, and private bathrooms. Luxury resorts, $200 per night and up, provide a tropical paradise with beachfront villas, world-class spas, and gourmet cuisine. Many high-end resorts can be found along the coast in Danang and around Phu Quoc Island.

Most hotels provide a mix of twin, double, and family rooms. Suites - with separate living rooms and bedrooms - are also available in many places. It's a good idea to book in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season from December to February or summer holidays.

For short visits, the convenience of a hotel can't be beaten. Whether you want an affordable place to rest your head or a lavish beach getaway, Vietnam's hotels and resorts have something for you. Enjoy your trip and all the comforts of home without any of the responsibilities! If you fall in love with the country and want to stay long term, you can always look at rental apartments or houses for your next visit.

Hostels: Budget-Friendly Accommodation for Solo Travelers and Digital Nomads

Affordable and Social

Hostels are a popular choice for budget-conscious solo travelers and digital nomads living in Vietnam. You’ll typically pay between $5 to $20 USD per night for a bed in a shared dorm room. Some hostels also offer private rooms for a bit more. The main perks of hostels are:

Low cost. They are much more affordable than hotels, especially if you’re staying long-term.
Opportunity to socialize. Hostels are very social, and it’s easy to meet other young travelers and backpackers. Many hostels organize social events, bar crawls, and day trips.
Travel resources. Hostels usually have resources to help you plan the next part of your trip. They can suggest places to visit and help you book tours or transit.
Community feels. Long-term travelers and digital nomads like the community feel of hostels. You’ll run into familiar faces and can make friends with the staff and other regulars.

Location and Amenities

Hostels are located throughout Vietnam, especially in tourist destinations and cities. Look for a hostel in an area close to the sights you want to visit. Many are within walking distance or a short taxi/bus ride away. Basic amenities at most hostels include:

Shared dorms: Sleep in a bunk bed in a shared room. More social but less privacy.
Private rooms: For couples or if you want more privacy. Still usually a budget-friendly option.
Shared bathrooms: You’ll share a bathroom with the others in your dorm or on your floor.
Common areas: A place to socialize with other travelers. Usually have seating, TVs, books, games, etc.
Kitchen access: Many hostels offer guests the use of a basic shared kitchen so they can cook some of their own meals.
Wi-Fi: Reliable Wi-Fi is standard at most hostels nowadays.

Hostels are ideal for those traveling on a budget or looking to make new friends. You get all the basic amenities you need in Vietnam at a fraction of the price of a hotel. The social atmosphere also makes it easy to meet travel companions for your adventures. Overall, hostels are a win-win for budget-conscious travelers in Vietnam.

Homestays: An Authentic Local Experience

Authentic Experience

Homestays in Vietnam offer visitors an authentic glimpse into local life. Rather than staying in a hotel, you live in a private home, usually with the family. This allows for an immersive experience where you can learn about Vietnamese culture, food, and daily life in a meaningful way.

Cultural Exchange

Living with a Vietnamese family in their home provides opportunities for cultural exchange. You can learn to cook traditional Vietnamese food, pick up some basic Vietnamese phrases, and gain insight into local customs and values. The families who host homestays are often very welcoming and excited to share their culture with foreigners. Don't be surprised if they invite you to join them for meals, special events, or other daily activities.

Flexible Options

Homestays in Vietnam come in a range of options to suit different needs. You can find both short-term and long-term homestays, from a few days up to several months. Accommodation types vary as well, from a basic room in a family home to a separate guest house. Some homestays offer private rooms and bathrooms while others share facilities with the host family.

Affordable & Convenient

Homestays are an affordable way to experience Vietnam compared to hotels. They provide basic but comfortable accommodation and meals are often included. Homestays are located throughout Vietnam, both in cities and the countryside. Many can arrange additional services like airport pickups, tours, bike rentals, and bus tickets.

Overall, homestays are ideal for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the local culture of Vietnam. While less private than a hotel, the opportunity to connect with a Vietnamese family and learn about daily life from the inside is invaluable. If you're open to new experiences and making personal connections, a homestay could be the perfect place to stay in Vietnam.

Serviced Apartments: Comfort and Convenience in the City

Looking for a place to call home in Vietnam but want more space and convenience than a hotel can offer? Serviced apartments are a great option.

Serviced apartments provide furnished accommodation for short or long stays, usually with a separate living room and kitchenette. You get the comforts of an apartment with the services of a hotel like housekeeping, linen changes, and front desk assistance.
In major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, you’ll find serviced apartments located within high-rise buildings in popular neighborhoods. The amenities vary but often include gyms, pools, and recreation areas. Some even have co-working spaces if you need to get work done.
Studio and one-bedroom apartments are common, but larger options with two or more bedrooms are available if you’re traveling with family or a group. The fully-equipped kitchenettes mean you can cook your own meals, though many buildings also have on-site restaurants.
Rates are usually lower than an extended hotel stay. Lease terms tend to be flexible, ranging from a few months up to a couple of years. Some places require a minimum stay during peak seasons, however. Be prepared to pay a deposit and utility fees in addition to the monthly rent.
If a serviced apartment sounds ideal but you want to avoid big upfront costs, consider a shorter sublet or renting a room in a shared apartment. Some landlords provide furnishings and cleaning services even for short-term stays.

With amazing amenities and spacious, comfortable rooms, serviced apartments offer you an enjoyable stay to explore life as an expat in Vietnam. Find the right place, and you’ll feel right at home in this exciting country.

Monthly Rentals: Furnished Apartments Ideal for Longer Trips

If you’re planning to stay in Vietnam for a month or more, a furnished apartment rental is ideal. Monthly rentals give you more space and privacy than a hotel at a lower cost. They also allow you to live like a local and explore the neighborhood.

Lots of Amenities

Most furnished apartments come with essential amenities like a kitchen, washing machine, TV, and WiFi. Some also offer extras like a gym, pool, parking, and 24-hour security. Having access to these facilities will make your longer stay much more comfortable.

Flexible Lease Terms

Monthly rentals usually have flexible lease terms, so you can choose a length that suits your needs. Stays of 3-6 months are common, but longer or shorter leases may also be available. If you’re not sure how long you want to stay, a shorter initial lease with an option to renew is a good choice. That way you can extend your stay if you’re enjoying the place and area.

Price and Location Vary

Furnished apartment prices vary depending on the location, amenities, and current market rates. You’ll typically pay more for an apartment in a desirable area of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City versus a smaller town. Shop around at different rentals to compare rates and find one that fits your budget.

DIY or Property Managers

You can rent an apartment directly from an owner or through a property manager/real estate agency. Working with an agency may cost slightly more but they can help with the rental process and provide support during your stay. Owners renting out their place themselves may charge lower rent but you’ll need to handle all logistics yourself.

A furnished apartment is a great way to immerse yourself in life in Vietnam for an extended trip. With flexible terms, lots of amenities, and options at different price points, you’re sure to find a place that lets you live comfortably like a local during your stay.

Co-Living Spaces: Community-Driven Housing for Remote Workers

As a remote worker or digital nomad, finding a place to stay in Vietnam requires balancing your need for community with your desire for independence. Co-living spaces are an ideal solution, offering private rooms or apartments within a shared community setting.

Built-In Community

Co-living spaces are designed to foster social interaction and connection between residents. Common areas like fully-equipped kitchens, lounges, gyms, and coworking spaces make it easy to interact with like-minded individuals. Events, meetups, and community meals are often organized to help you build new friendships and professional networks. For remote workers or freelancers, this ready-made community can help combat feelings of isolation or restlessness.

Flexibility and Convenience

Most co-living spaces offer month-to-month leases, allowing you to stay as long or as little as you'd like. All-inclusive rates cover utilities, high-speed internet, and weekly cleaning services, reducing hassle and surprise expenses. Onsite staff also handle maintenance, check-ins, and other logistics to maximize your freedom and mobility.

Amenities Galore

Co-living spaces are equipped with amenities to suit both work and play. Fast and reliable WiFi, standing desks, printers, and private workspaces enable productivity. Recreation rooms, bars, pools, gyms, and outdoor terraces provide opportunities for leisure and socializing. Some spaces also have extras like cinema rooms, meditation spaces, or karaoke rooms. With so many amenities at your fingertips, you may never want to leave!

Locations for Every Lifestyle

You can find co-living spaces in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, and Nha Trang as well as smaller towns popular with digital nomads like Da Lat and Hoi An. Beachfront properties, downtown high-rises, and converted colonial villas provide options for every lifestyle and budget. Wherever in Vietnam your travels take you, a welcoming co-living community awaits.

Co-living is redefining housing for location-independent individuals. Offering the perfect blend of independence and community, co-living spaces provide an unparalleled experience for living, working, and connecting with others in Vietnam. Why stay alone when you can co-live?

Private Villas: An Exclusive Escape in Natural Surroundings

If you want to experience Vietnam in style and seclusion, renting a private villa is the way to go. Villas offer luxurious amenities and surroundings while still immersing you in natural beauty.

Location: Villas are often situated in countryside areas, mountain retreats, or beachfront properties away from the hustle and bustle of cities and towns. Waking up to views of rice paddies, jungle canopies or the ocean provides a peaceful escape from it all.
Amenities: Villas provide amenities like private pools, home gyms, entertainment centers, and fully equipped kitchens so you have everything you need in one place. Some even come with housekeepers, chefs, and butlers to cater to your needs.
Space: Villas offer ample space for families, groups of friends, or digital nomads who want the room to roam and work comfortably. Multiple bedrooms, living rooms, dining areas, and outdoor spaces mean there’s a place for everyone to enjoy together or alone.
Privacy: The seclusion and spaciousness of villas afford a high level of privacy not found in hotels or apartments. You have the freedom to relax and unwind without disturbances from neighbors or prying eyes. Some villas even have guarded, gated entrances for extra security and solitude.
Scenery: Many villas are situated within lush, tropical surroundings that provide a picturesque backdrop for your stay. Manicured lawns, flowering gardens, coconut palms, and mountain vistas offer natural beauty at your doorstep. Some beachfront villas even have private access to the shore.

Renting a villa is ideal if you want an exclusive, luxurious home base to explore Vietnam’s countryside and coastline in peace. A private villa offers an escape within an escape, a place to immerse yourself in nature without sacrificing comfort or style.

Traffic jams, flooding, and other things you should consider

Vietnam is known for chaotic traffic and frequent flooding during the rainy season. When looking for a place to stay, consider how these factors may affect your commute and quality of life.

Traffic: Major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi suffer from heavy traffic and congestion, especially during rush hour. Look for housing located close to your workplace or school to minimize time spent sitting in traffic. If that’s not possible, be prepared for long commute times and even gridlock. Public transit options are limited, so you’ll probably rely on motorbikes, taxis, or ride-sharing.
Flooding: Parts of Vietnam experience heavy rainfall from May to October which often leads to flooding in cities and towns. Seek accommodations on higher ground and avoid ground-level units. Check if the area you’re interested in is prone to flooding by searching online for flood maps and historical weather data. If flooding is common, look for housing made of water-resistant and durable materials with essential utilities located on the upper floors.
Noise and Pollution: Unfortunately, heavy traffic also means higher levels of noise and air pollution which can significantly impact your quality of life. Look for housing further away from busy roads and factories. Newer buildings may also have better soundproofing. You may want to invest in an air purifier and noise-canceling headphones.
Safety: Excessive traffic and flooding also present safety issues like hydroplaning, accidents, and sanitation risks. Look for accommodations with parking off the main road. Make sure there are proper drainage systems and the building foundation and infrastructure appear well-constructed and maintained. Check that emergency services like police and fire departments can access the location in case of traffic or flooding.

By considering factors like traffic, flooding, noise, and safety when choosing where to live in Vietnam, you can feel more at ease in your new home and avoid unwanted surprises. Do your research, visit locations in person if possible, and ask locals for recommendations on the most livable and well-equipped areas.

Finding the right place to call home in Vietnam, whether for a short trip or the long haul, is definitely doable if you go in with realistic expectations. Keep an open mind, be willing to negotiate, and don't be afraid to change locations if needed. Vietnam has so much to offer, from scenic natural surroundings to vibrant city life, historical attractions to modern conveniences. With some patience and flexibility, you'll discover the perfect living situation to launch your Vietnamese adventure. The rewards of immersing yourself in the culture and community will make any hassles encountered along the way well worth it. Take a deep breath and dive in - your new home awaits!