The expatriate community in Vietnam, while not extensive overall, does have significant Korean and Japanese communities. These communities often have their own distinct neighborhoods and shops. Korean expatriates tend to reside around the Keangnam Tower area, while Japanese expatriates cluster around Kim Ma. Many of these individuals are businesspeople who have relocated with their families.
On the other hand, Western expatriates in Vietnam form a different group. While there is a minority of business professionals and embassy staff among them, the majority are young English teachers. English language acquisition is highly valued in Vietnam, and many Vietnamese people seek tutoring to improve their English skills. Having native English speakers as teachers, regardless of accent or delivery, is often seen as a status symbol. Consequently, being a native English speaker, particularly if one is white, can be advantageous in securing teaching positions.
Most English teachers live in the Tay Ho (West Lake) area and often share accommodations with other expatriates. While some language centers may appear to offer competitive pay, it's important to note that lesson preparations, holidays, and weekends are typically unpaid. On average, English teachers may earn around $1,000 per month, which allows for a comfortable lifestyle when living in a shared house with a room costing approximately $200.
However, it seems that your personal experiences with the teacher expatriate community in Vietnam have been negative. You've encountered individuals who display narcissistic personality traits and engage in problematic behavior. It's unfortunate that your interactions with these expatriates have been unpleasant.
It's worth noting that these experiences may not be representative of all expatriates in Vietnam. Every individual and community is diverse, and it's important to approach generalizations with caution. If you have had negative experiences with certain individuals, it may be best to seek a different living arrangement or explore other communities within Vietnam that align more closely with your preferences.
As for advice to Vietnamese women considering relationships with Western expatriates, it's important to approach any relationship with caution and be mindful of one's own well-being. While it's not fair to make sweeping generalizations about all Western expatriates, it is crucial to be aware of potential challenges and exercise discernment when entering into any relationship.
Ultimately, it's unfortunate that your experiences with the expatriate community in Vietnam have been negative. However, it's important to remember that individual experiences can vary greatly, and it's possible to find positive connections and meaningful relationships within any community.
