Video not playing? Watch on YouTube ↗

I quit my job and left America to sell pizza in Da Nang, Vietnam - Here's why

127,757 2,124 9:27 min 2026-06-20 0 reviews
Americans Living Abroad
Americans Living Abroad

86,900 subscribers

Mike, a former electrical engineer from California, shares his transformative journey of quitting his corporate career to open American Pizza in Da Nang, Vietnam. Driven by a promise to his late father to explore his mother's heritage, Mike discusses the cultural shifts required to succeed as an expat entrepreneur. The narrative provides practical insights into the local business landscape, including the benefits of having a local partner for licensing and the necessity of adapting products to local market preferences, such as adjusting pizza sizes and price points. Beyond business, the video highlights the lifestyle advantages of Da Nang, from the low cost of transport and fuel to the tranquil countryside at Yen Retreat just 20 minutes from the city. Mike offers a candid look at overcoming logistical hurdles like sourcing the right flour and custom furniture, ultimately framing Da Nang as an ideal destination for those seeking a slower pace of life and a welcoming community.

Key Facts

  1. Approximately $5 to fill a motorbike gas tank.
  2. 350,000 VND for a large pizza was considered too expensive for local residents.
  3. American Pizza website and contact information.
  4. Yen Retreat, a tranquil spot located 20 minutes outside of Da Nang.

More from Americans Living Abroad

View channel
I live a simple life in Vietnam for $500/Month - Here's how I make money
14:31 min 2026-07-12

I live a simple life in Vietnam for $500/Month - Here's how I make money

In this interview-style video, an American musician shares his experience of moving from Florida to Da Nang, Vietnam, where he now lives on roughly $500 per month. He pays $247 monthly rent for a studio apartment on the quiet outskirts of the city, covers utilities for about $130–$150, and spends around $150 on food, transport, and leisure. He earns an online income teaching English through platfo...

I Traded My Studio for a 3-Story Home With a Pool in Da Nang, Vietnam
13:32 min 2026-06-27

I Traded My Studio for a 3-Story Home With a Pool in Da Nang, Vietnam

Juliette, an American expat, showcases her $1,700/month three-story luxury home in Da Nang's Hai Chau district, complete with a pool, sauna, massage chair, BBQ grill, and rooftop terrace. She contrasts this with her previous $3,000/month two-bedroom apartment in Atlanta, emphasizing the significant cost savings. The video provides a detailed apartment tour and practical advice for finding rentals ...

I Live In Da Nang, Vietnam — This Apartment Would Cost $20K/Month in the US
14:20 min 2026-06-13

I Live In Da Nang, Vietnam — This Apartment Would Cost $20K/Month in the US

Kurt and Surendar, online business partners running an e-commerce operation, give a full tour of their luxury villa in Da Nang, Vietnam. The three-bedroom, three-bathroom house features a pool, koi pond, large windows, and modern amenities. They pay $4,000 per month plus utilities, which they note would cost $15,000–$20,000 in Seattle. The video covers their journey from starting a roof cleaning b...