Five Things to Expect When Moving to Southeast Asia

Are you thinking of moving to Southeast Asia? Well, you’re not the only one. Many Americans are living in various places in Asia. For example, about 300,000 Americans are living in the Philippines alone. This is relatively common, and many Americans have multiple reasons for it.

So whether you’re looking for a change of scenery or a new adventure, there’s a lot to love about this corner of the world. From the stunning natural beauty to the rich cultural heritage, there are many reasons why people fall in love with Southeast Asia. If you’re considering making a move, here are five things you can expect:

Slower Pace of Life

In Southeast Asia, time moves a little differently than in the West. That’s not to say that things aren’t efficient – they happen at a different pace. So if you’re used to the fast-paced lifestyle of Western cities, be prepared for things to move a little more slowly in Southeast Asia. But trust us, you’ll get used to it! And you might even come to appreciate the slower pace of life.

Friendly Locals

One of the best things about Southeast Asia is the people. They are the warmest and most welcoming people you’ll ever meet. Whether you’re moving to Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, or any other country in the region, you can expect the locals to be friendly and hospitable. You’ll quickly make friends and feel right at home!

Affordability

The region is also known to be very affordable in many ways. First, let’s discuss education.

Education

The United States might be known for its world-class education, but that doesn’t mean it’s the only place to get an excellent education. Many Southeast Asian countries offer excellent educational opportunities. For example, the Philippines offer some of the best business-related courses, and the best part of it is that they are very affordable. Taking a doctor of business administration in the Philippines will cost you a fraction of what it would cost in the United States. You should consider doing this if you’re planning to start a business in the country.

Housing

Housing prices in the United States have reached unprecedented levels. But in Southeast Asia, you’ll be happy to know that housing is still very affordable. For example, you can easily find a beautiful two-bedroom apartment in Vietnam for under $900 per month. And in Thailand, you can find a three-bedroom house for rent for around $700 per month. These are just a few examples of how affordable housing is in the region.

Food

Another area where you’ll save a lot of money is food. Food in Southeast Asia is very affordable, especially if you eat as the locals do. For example, you can get a delicious bowl of pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) for less than $2. And in Thailand, you can get a plate of street food for around $1.50. So if you’re on a budget, you’ll be happy to know that you can still eat well in Southeast Asia.

Delicious Food

Another great thing about Southeast Asia is the food! The region is known for its delicious cuisine, which often features fresh seafood, spices, and herbs. Trust us, you’ll never go hungry in Southeast Asia! There’s something for everyone, so whether you’re a foodie or just enjoy eating good food, you’ll be in for a treat. Here are some of the countries with the best cuisines:

Malaysia

This country is home to all sorts of exotic but tasty ingredients, such as lemongrass, galangal, and tamarind. This is one of the reasons why Malaysian food is so flavorful. Be sure to try some of the country’s famous dishes, such as nasi lemak (coconut rice), satay (skewered meats), and rendang (beef stew).

Thailand

If you love spicy food, then you’ll love Thai cuisine. The country uses chili peppers and other spices in its dishes. But don’t worry, if you can’t handle the heat, plenty of other options are available. Be sure to try some of Thailand’s famous dishes, such as pad thai (stir-fried noodles), tom yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup), and massaman curry (beef stew).

Rich Culture and History

Last but not least, Southeast Asia is home to a rich culture and history unlike anything else in the world. There’s so much to explore, from ancient temples and ruins to traditional festivals and dances! So if you’re interested in learning more about the culture and history of Southeast Asia, there’s no better place to do it than by living there yourself.

There’s no denying that Southeast Asia is a special place with much to offer to those who choose to live there. From friendly locals and delicious food to stunning scenery and rich culture, there are many reasons why people fall in love with this corner of the world. So if you’re thinking of making a move, be prepared for a slower pace of life and friendly locals who will make you feel right at home!