An interview with Frank, a 62-year-old retired American executive, who moved from Los Angeles to Da Nang. He describes his life, showing his $750/month one-bedroom condo with a pool, weekly cleaning, and included Wi-Fi, and explains that total monthly expenses including electricity run about $800. He notes meal costs average $4, and contrasts this with the high cost of living in the U.S., where a single McDonald's meal costs $15. Frank emphasizes the social opportunities in Da Nang, saying he met more people in one year than in the last ten in LA, partly through volunteering at an English club four nights a week. He discusses the ease of socializing at ubiquitous coffee shops, weather considerations during the rainy season, the convenience of Da Nang's airport (10-12 minutes from anywhere), and visa logistics requiring a 3-month renewal. Frank also mentions that he has purchased an apartment in Da Nang as an investment, believing the city's economy is growing similarly to China's earlier boom, and he plans to start a business there for mental stimulation.
Key Facts
- The apartment costs $750/month in rent plus approximately $50/month for electricity, totaling $800.
- Average meal cost is $4 per meal for good meals.
- Foreigners must renew their visa every 3 months using a 3-month tourist visa.
- Da Nang airport is centrally located, 10-12 minutes from anywhere in the city.
- Volunteers at an English club 4 nights a week, teaching English and business skills.
