🌍 Overview
Hoi An, a charming town on Vietnam’s central coast, has become a sought-after destination for digital nomads. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and laid-back atmosphere, Hoi An offers an ideal blend of work-life balance and cultural immersion. As a remote work hub, Hoi An has gained popularity among digital nomads, who are drawn to its affordable cost of living, growing nomad community, and increasing infrastructure. The town’s vibrant expat scene and friendly locals make it an attractive choice for those seeking a relaxed yet productive lifestyle.
Hoi An’s cost of living is remarkably low, with 1-bedroom apartments renting for around $160/month. A meal at a local restaurant can be had for as little as $1.3, and a cup of coffee costs just $1.0. This affordability, combined with the town’s unique charm and rich cultural heritage, makes Hoi An an attractive option for remote workers. However, it’s essential to set realistic expectations: Hoi An’s digital nomad infrastructure scores a mere 37/100, and its social/nightlife scene is relatively limited, scoring just 17/100. Despite these limitations, the town’s natural beauty, cultural attractions, and growing expat community make it a compelling choice for digital nomads.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods
Cua Dai Beach Neighborhood
The Cua Dai Beach Neighborhood offers a relaxed, beachside lifestyle, with stunning views of the East Sea. This area is popular among digital nomads, who appreciate its laid-back atmosphere and access to outdoor activities. However, be prepared for some noise from the beach and occasional crowds. Typical monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in this area ranges from $180 to $250. The neighborhood’s proximity to the beach and local amenities makes it an attractive choice for those who value a beachside lifestyle.
An Hoi Island Neighborhood
An Hoi Island, connected to Hoi An’s old town by a bridge, offers a unique blend of traditional and modern amenities. This area is ideal for those who want to experience Hoi An’s vibrant expat scene and cultural attractions, while still enjoying a relatively quiet atmosphere. Monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in this area ranges from $200 to $300. An Hoi Island’s proximity to the old town and its scenic views of the Thu Bon River make it an attractive choice for digital nomads.
Hoi An Ancient Town Neighborhood
The Hoi An Ancient Town Neighborhood is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich cultural heritage. This area is ideal for those who want to experience Hoi An’s history and architecture, with its ancient temples, pagodas, and wooden bridges. However, be prepared for some noise from the streets and occasional crowds. Typical monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in this area ranges from $250 to $350. The neighborhood’s cultural significance and scenic views of the Thu Bon River make it an attractive choice for digital nomads.
Dien Ngoc Neighborhood
Dien Ngoc, a quieter area on the outskirts of Hoi An, offers a more laid-back atmosphere and lower prices. This area is ideal for those who want to experience Hoi An’s rural charm and natural beauty, with its picturesque rice fields and countryside views. However, be prepared for some noise from the local market and occasional traffic. Typical monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in this area ranges from $120 to $200. Dien Ngoc’s proximity to the countryside and lower prices make it an attractive choice for digital nomads on a budget.
Digital Nomad Guide
Coworking Spaces
Hoi An has a growing number of coworking spaces, catering to the increasing demand from digital nomads. Some notable spaces include:
- Hoi An Coworking Space: Offers private offices, shared workspaces, and meeting rooms, with prices starting from $200/month (approx. 4.5 Mbps internet speed).
- An Hoi Coworking Space: Provides shared workspaces, meeting rooms, and event spaces, with prices starting from $150/month (approx. 6 Mbps internet speed).
- Hoi An Nomad Space: Offers private offices, shared workspaces, and meeting rooms, with prices starting from $250/month (approx. 10 Mbps internet speed).
Internet Quality
Hoi An’s internet quality is improving, with average speeds of around 12 Mbps. However, fiber availability is limited, and speeds can drop during peak hours. It’s essential to research and choose a coworking space or accommodation with reliable internet.
Nomad Community Scene
Hoi An’s nomad community is growing, with various meetups, events, and Facebook groups. Some popular meetups include:
- Hoi An Digital Nomads Meetup: A monthly meetup for digital nomads to connect and network.
- Hoi An Nomad Community: A Facebook group for digital nomads to share information, ask questions, and connect with others.
Best Cafes to Work from
Hoi An has a variety of cafes, offering a range of workspaces, Wi-Fi quality, and power outlets. Some notable cafes include:
- Cafe 43: Offers a quiet, air-conditioned space with fast Wi-Fi and plenty of power outlets.
- Hoi An Coffee: Provides a relaxed atmosphere, with Wi-Fi and power outlets available.
- Cafe An: Offers a scenic view of the Thu Bon River, with Wi-Fi and power outlets available.
Visa Options for Remote Workers
Remote workers can apply for a visa on arrival or an e-visa, with various types of visas available. Some popular visa options include:
- Visa on Arrival: A single-entry visa, valid for 30 days, with a cost of around $25.
- E-Visa: A single-entry visa, valid for 30 days, with a cost of around $25.
- Business Visa: A multiple-entry visa, valid for 3-6 months, with a cost of around $50-100.
Banking and Practical Setup Tips
Remote workers can open a local bank account, with various banks offering services for foreigners. Some popular banks include:
- Vietcombank: Offers a range of banking services, including foreign currency exchange and remittance.
- Techcombank: Provides banking services, including foreign currency exchange and remittance.
- Vietinbank: Offers banking services, including foreign currency exchange and remittance.
🎨 Culture & Vibe
Hoi An’s culture is deeply rooted in its history and architecture. Some notable cultural attractions include:
- Hoi An Ancient Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich cultural heritage.
- Japanese Bridge: A historic bridge, built by Japanese merchants in the 16th century.
- Phuc Kien Assembly Hall: A cultural hub, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich cultural heritage.
Local Customs and Etiquette
Hoi An is a culturally sensitive town, with locals placing great emphasis on respect and courtesy. Some essential customs and etiquette include:
- Removing shoes: When entering temples or homes, it’s customary to remove shoes.
- Using chopsticks: Chopsticks are the traditional utensils used in Vietnam, and it’s essential to use them correctly.
- Respecting the elderly: The elderly are highly respected in Vietnamese culture, and it’s essential to show respect and courtesy.
⭐ Highlights
- Hoi An Ancient Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich cultural heritage.
- Japanese Bridge: A historic bridge, built by Japanese merchants in the 16th century.
- Phuc Kien Assembly Hall: A cultural hub, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich cultural heritage.
- Cua Dai Beach: A stunning beach, offering breathtaking views of the East Sea.
- Thu Bon River: A scenic river, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich cultural heritage.
- Hoi An Night Market: A bustling market, offering a range of local products and souvenirs.
- Hoi An Food Market: A bustling market, offering a range of local food and drinks.
💡 Practical Tips
Visa Requirements
Remote workers can apply for a visa on arrival or an e-visa, with various types of visas available. Some popular visa options include:
- Visa on Arrival: A single-entry visa, valid for 30 days, with a cost of around $25.
- E-Visa: A single-entry visa, valid for 30 days, with a cost of around $25.
- Business Visa: A multiple-entry visa, valid for 3-6 months, with a cost of around $50-100.
Getting Around
Hoi An has a range of transportation options, including:
- Motorbikes: A popular mode of transportation, with many rental shops available.
- Taxis: A convenient option, with many taxi companies available.
- Scooters: A popular mode of transportation, with many rental shops available.
- Walking: A great way to explore the town, with many scenic routes available.
Safety Considerations
Hoi An is generally a safe town, with low crime rates. However, it’s essential to take precautions, including:
- Avoiding crowded areas: Avoid crowded areas, especially at night.
- Keeping valuables secure: Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas.
- Being mindful of scams: Be mindful of scams, especially in crowded areas.
Best Time to Visit
Hoi An has a tropical climate, with two main seasons: wet and dry. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from February to August, with average temperatures ranging from 20-30°C.
Local Tips and Warnings
Hoi An is a culturally sensitive town, with locals placing great emphasis on respect and courtesy. Some essential tips and warnings include:
- Respecting local customs: Respect local customs and etiquette, especially when visiting temples or homes.
- Using local transportation: Use local transportation, such as motorbikes or taxis, to get around the town.
- Being mindful of scams: Be mindful of scams, especially in crowded areas.
Money Matters
Hoi An is a relatively affordable town, with a range of accommodation options available. Some popular accommodation options include:
- Hostels: A budget-friendly option, with many hostels available.
- Guesthouses: A mid-range option, with many guesthouses available.
- Hotels: A more expensive option, with many hotels available.
Healthcare and Insurance Considerations
Hoi An has a range of healthcare options, including:
- Local hospitals: A range of hospitals, including the Hoi An General Hospital.
- International hospitals: A range of international hospitals, including the Da Nang International Hospital.
- Health insurance: A range of health insurance options, including local and international providers.
I hope this comprehensive guide provides you with the information you need to make the most of your trip to Hoi An, Vietnam.
