Vietnam ranks among the top 10 the best of living for expats in 2021 as Expat Insider Survey

YOLO 02/07/2021 Du lịch bốn phương

After a year of lockdowns, many people are looking for a change - whether it’s a temporary move to become a digital nomad or a more permanent change to become an expatriate in a new country. But with so many countries to choose from, deciding on your new home can be daunting.

Luckily, expat community organization InterNations have got you covered. They have just published their Expat Insider 2021 Survey which uncovers the best destinations for living and working abroad.

Based on information from more than 12,000 respondents, the survey is one of the most extensive pieces of research in the world on expat lifestyles. The study covers expats’ satisfaction with the quality of life, ease of settling in, working life, personal finance, and the cost of living in their respective countries of residence.

This year, respondents were also asked to feedback on their experiences with the COVID-19 pandemic, and how it has impacted their lifestyle abroad.

Where are the best locations for expats - and why?

10. Vietnam

Vietnam is the ideal spot for expats looking to save money while living their best lives. Its beaches, delicious food and fascinating culture make it a great spot for anyone looking to try something new.

▸ 86% are happy with their job

▸ 78% are happy with their work-life balance

▸ 85% are happy with the cost of living

▸ 57% are happy with the quality of medical care

▸ 67% say making new friends is easy

▸ 85% are happy with life in general

9. Canada

Canada is best known for its friendly people, world-famous beauty, and - more recently - for being the ideal social distancing location, with just 38 million people across nearly 10 million square kilometers.

▸ 69% are happy with their job

▸ 72% are happy with their work-life balance

▸ 42% are happy with the cost of living

▸ 78% are happy with the quality of medical care

▸ 52% say making new friends is easy

▸ 76% are happy with life in general

8. Ecuador

The South American country of Ecuador is deeply rooted in history. It’s home to one of the oldest civilizations in the world, has its very own pyramids and UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the Galapagos Islands and the city of Quito. Fun fact: if you venture up the Chimborazo Volcano near Riobamba, you’ll be at the world’s closest point to the sun (because of the bulge on the equator, sorry Everest).

▸ 72% are happy with their job

▸ 79% are happy with their work-life balance

▸ 78% are happy with the cost of living

▸ 73% are happy with the quality of medical care

▸ 68% say making new friends is easy

▸ 88% are happy with life in general

7. Australia

Australia is known for the attraction of its megacities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. It also features famous spots like Bondi Beach and The Great Barrier Reef. Fancy weekends spent barbecuing in the afternoon heat? This is the expat spot for you.

▸ 73%% are happy with their job

▸ 76% are happy with their work-life balance

▸ 42% are happy with the cost of living

▸ 88% are happy with the quality of medical care

▸ 54% say making new friends is easy

▸ 80% are happy with life in general

6. New Zealand

After its stellar handling of the COVID-19 pandemic by their prime minister Jacinda Ardern, it’s no surprise to find beautiful New Zealand in the top 10. Along with its competent handling of the public health crisis, NZ produces great wine and offers world-class skiing and surfing. This corner of the world really does have it all.

▸ 78% are happy with their job

▸ 83% are happy with their work-life balance

▸ 29% are happy with the cost of living

▸ 78% are happy with the quality of medical care

▸ 54% say making new friends is easy

▸ 77% are happy with life in general

5. Portugal

Expats can head to Portugal for warm summers, al fresco dining, stunning cities, and - most importantly - Pastel de Nata, a delicious custard tart usually served hot and sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon. Also a good one for the golfers as the small but mighty country is famous for its diverse range of courses.

▸ 62% are happy with their job

▸ 70% are happy with their work-life balance

▸ 75% are happy with the cost of living

▸ 78% are happy with the quality of medical care

▸ 59% say making new friends is easy

▸ 84% are happy with life in general

4. Malaysia

The Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur is one of South East Asia’s powerhouses for finance and business. The country is also home to a selection of UNESCO world heritage sites, beautiful beaches, and secluded islands.

▸ 69% are happy with their job

▸ 72% are happy with their work-life balance

▸ 82% are happy with the cost of living

▸ 82% are happy with the quality of medical care

▸ 66% say making new friends is easy

▸ 85% are happy with life in general

3. Costa Rica

Coming in third place, luscious Costa Rica. It’s home to tropical beaches and incredible national parks that feature an array of rare species of plants and animals. Costa Rica is a timeless favourite with tourists who want to immerse themselves in the concentrated biodiversity of this Central American country. Great coffee and the mantra ‘pura vida’ (pure life) can be added to the list of appeal.

▸ 70% are happy with their job

▸ 69% are happy with their work-life balance

▸ 55% are happy with the cost of living

▸ 83% are happy with the quality of medical care

▸ 65% say making new friends is easy

▸ 88% are happy with life in general

2. Mexico

Meanwhile in Mexico, delicious food and sun-soaked beaches - plus a rich history which is still present in its Mayan temples - make for the perfect escape. The landscape is one of the extremes: rugged mountains, dense rainforest, and blue waters mean there’s never a dull weekend. It’s also the home of margaritas. We feel that’s relevant.

▸ 80% are happy with their job

▸ 72% are happy with their work-life balance

▸ 79% are happy with the cost of living

▸ 68% are happy with the quality of medical care

▸ 77% say making new friends is easy

▸ 88% are happy with life in general

1. Taiwan

Coming in first place overall, Taiwan, a small island in East Asia, is known for its colorful night markets, free WiFi across its largest cities, and vegetarian-friendly cuisine. It’s also home to one of the best healthcare systems in the world and an obsession with Hello Kitty (we’re talking themed restaurants, cartoon-clad aeroplanes and even branded beer).