Australia, Spain, Germany, Fiji; There are so many awesome destinations to choose from for your Study Abroad term. Some destinations offer beaches, some destinations offer rich culture, and some destinations offer endless history. But what if I told you there is a destination that offers all of that and more?
Say hello to Vietnam. Sure, you could go to Europe or Australia like everyone else, but you’d be missing out on an incredible Southeast Asian experience. Here’s why you take your studies to Vietnam.
- A unique mix of cultures.
The whole point of studying abroad is to do some new and different, right? Well, Vietnam’s culture could not be more different. From the food, to the socialist government, to the traffic and the history, it’s like living in different world. Don’t get me started about the delicious pho, bon mi sandwiches, or the Vietnamese ice coffee; just trust me when I say Saigon’s streets are filled with delicious food and you’re going to be eatin’ good. Vietnam was occupied for the French for over six decades, so Vietnamese food is a wonderful mixture of French, Asian and American cuisine. The people could not be friendlier. Whether they are your classmates or your Uber bike driver, you will always find them in a good mood and willing to talk to you. And to top it all off, there will never be a dull moment because crossing the street seems like a near-death experience. The streets of Saigon are overrun by a sea of mopeds, so getting anywhere is always interesting. There is a rich history and tradition in Vietnam. Though the stories are sad, Vietnam has countless museums and interesting landmarks. Ancient ruins, war museums, and Buddhist temples are scattered up and down the coast.
- The location could not be better.
Another reason to pick Vietnam is its location. Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, Vietnam is home to beaches, sand dunes, lush forests, and epic mountains. While studying, an adventure was always just a cheap flight or moped ride away. From Ho Chi Minh City, you are just hours from the beaches of Vung Tau, the mountains and waterfalls of Dalat, or the legendary Mekong Delta.
All of Vietnam is great, but the real benefit is the opportunity to explore the rest of Southeast Asia. Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, Myanmar, are all at your fingertips. By the end of your term abroad, you will feel like a rock star, catching 6am flights from Bangkok to make it back in time for your morning class.
- Affordability: You’ll be balling on a budget!
Everything mentioned above, from the food to travel, are so affordable. I’m talkin’ $2 beers, $1 bowls of beefy pho, and flights to almost anywhere in SEA for under $100. I stayed in a 3-bedroom apartment with an infinity pool, gym and bellman for just over $300 CAD a month. Once you buy a $250 moped, you are set.
If you are ready for a crazy, cultural adventure all for little cost, then PICK VIETNAM!
