An interview with John, an English teacher and father, who moved from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang after nearly a decade in Vietnam. He contrasts the two cities, citing Da Nang's cleaner air, less traffic, and better environment for raising a family. The conversation covers English teaching qualifications (degree plus TEFL or CELTA), typical salaries (starting around 400,000 VND/hour at centers), and the job market, noting that Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi have far more teaching positions. John describes Da Nang's beach lifestyle, access to nature like Son Tra Peninsula and waterfalls within a 25-minute drive, and healthy food options in An Thuong. He also discusses marrying a Vietnamese partner, the paperwork process, and schooling choices for his two-year-old daughter, including Montessori kindergartens, international schools costing $10,000–$30,000 per year, and homeschooling communities. The video is primarily a comparison of living in Da Nang versus Ho Chi Minh City for expats, especially those teaching English or starting a family.
Key Facts
- English teachers at centers earn starting around 400,000 VND/hour (about $16–$17/hour), with a maximum around 700,000 VND/hour ($22/hour).
- Teaching English in Vietnam requires a degree (any field) and a TEFL or CELTA certificate; CELTA is preferred.
- International schools in Da Nang cost $10,000–$30,000 per year.
- Son Tra Peninsula and waterfalls like Hoa Trung are reachable within 25 minutes by motorbike from central Da Nang.
- Marrying a Vietnamese citizen requires a certified letter from your home country stating you are not married, plus birth certificates and passport copies.
