Finding happiness in the simple things in Vietnam: Foreign expats
WVR - Leaving home to begin a new life in another country, foreign nationals living and working in Vietnam are gradually discovering that happiness is not a perfect destination, but part of the journey of experiencing and adapting to a new way of life. From the satisfaction of meaningful work and acts of kindness to connections that transcend cultural differences, these everyday moments help them develop a sense of belonging in Vietnam.
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Nurturing happiness along the way
Coming from faraway South Africa, Mr. Nathan Coetzee Wesley, an English teacher in Vietnam, once thought of happiness as a “destination” that could only be reached after achieving enough goals, earning enough money or establishing a stable life. Yet, the more committed he became to his work, the more he realised that joy lies not only in the final outcome, but also in the path each person chooses to take. “You have to be happy on the journey towards happiness”, Mr. Nathan said.
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| Moments in the classroom have become part of Nathan’s journey towards finding happiness in Vietnam. (Photo: Supplied by the interviewee) |
For him, this lesson has emerged from his time teaching in Vietnam. The students who sometimes test his patience are also the ones who bring him the greatest joy. Watching them make progress, achieve their goals and grow day by day allows Nathan to appreciate the value of his work, which cannot be measured in money or material possessions.
Compared with his years teaching in his home country, working in Vietnam has given him a fresh perspective on the teaching profession. “When I was teaching back home, I never experienced this feeling. Teaching children who already speak English has its own rewards. But in Vietnam, I can see more clearly how my work is making a tangible difference as the children gradually master a new language”, Mr. Nathan said.
Life away from home sometimes leaves him missing familiar routines, or the feeling of being able to share a joke without having to explain it. Rather than trying to eliminate the sense of unfamiliarity, however, the South African teacher has chosen to embrace differences and allow himself to experience both the surprises and the challenges they bring.
Looking back on his time in Vietnam, he believes that the most valuable thing he has gained is not simply a collection of memories, but the person he has become.
Kindness knows no borders
Also pursuing a career in education in Vietnam, Ms. Aida Arkak, who comes from Iran, finds happiness in life’s simple pleasures, genuine relationships and everyday acts of kindness.
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| Ms. Aida with her Vietnamese students, who bring her joy in her teaching career. (Photo: Courtesy by the interviewee) |
For her, there is no fixed formula for happiness. It may be the satisfaction of doing meaningful work, the reassurance of having family and friends by her side, or simply spending a peaceful moment with a cup of coffee and her cats. “Sometimes, joy begins with appreciating the most ordinary things in life”, Ms. Aida said.
When she first arrived in Vietnam, she felt as though she had to start her life all over again, as everything, from her home and work to the people around her and the language, was new. To overcome loneliness and the unfamiliarity of her surroundings, Ms. Aida made an effort to meet people, make friends, try new dishes and explore places she had never visited. Through these experiences, she gradually adapted to her new life and learnt to appreciate each moment.
What makes Vietnam particularly special to her is the relationships she has built with local people. Having initially thought that differences in language and culture might stand in the way of forming connections, Ms. Aida came to realise that kindness can bring people closer, even when they do not speak the same language. “The wonderful people of Vietnam have shown me that kindness and happiness know no borders”, she said.
A place that feels like home
Mr. Manu, a Spaniard living and working in Hanoi, finds joy in connections forged through language and cultural exchange. He runs several business activities, teaches Spanish and English, works as a personal trainer, and operates a travel company bringing visitors from Spain to Hanoi.
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| Mr. Manu, a Spaniard living and working in Hanoi, finds joy in connections forged through language and cultural exchange. (Photo: Dieu Linh) |
For Mr. Manu, learning and speaking Vietnamese has significantly transformed his experience of living in the country. The language has not only made communication easier, but has also opened up opportunities for him to gain a deeper understanding of Vietnamese culture and become more involved in local life.
“Sometimes, I even forget that I am a foreigner. Vietnam is not my homeland, but in many ways, it makes me feel as though I am at home”, he said.
Manu also hopes to serve as a bridge between cultures through the Spanish-language club he belongs to. It provides a space for people from different cultural backgrounds to meet, talk and share their experiences of living in Vietnam.
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| Gatherings bring people closer together, with joy shared through everyday moments and a common affection for Vietnam. (Photo: Chris Garcia) |
For Mr. Manu, creating spaces for cultural exchange gives foreign residents opportunities to connect with one another while living in Vietnam. He hopes that the happiness and positive experiences he has found will reach more people, allowing others living far from home to discover joy, connection and a sense of belonging in their lives here.
The stories of Mr. Nathan, Ms. Aida and Mr. Manu show that starting life in an unfamiliar country is never easy, but it can open up countless opportunities to discover new things. In Vietnam, they have gradually built lives of their own through their work, experiences and relationships nurtured over time. As a result, a country that once felt unfamiliar has become increasingly familiar, while happiness has emerged in the simple moments along the way.
