In recent years, the trend of relocating to Southeast Asia has gained traction among celebrities, inspiring many to consider a new lifestyle abroad. Notable figures like Atsuhiko Nakata, a comedian and popular YouTuber known for his affinity for stand-up comedy, moved to Singapore in 2021 with his wife, Moena Fukuda, to chase better opportunities.
Musician GACKT, known for his unique blend of pop and rock, currently resides in Malaysia. He has expressed deep satisfaction with his life there, claiming, “There’s no better country than Malaysia.” His endorsement adds a star-studded glow to the allure of Southeast Asia, making it an appealing destination for both celebrities and everyday individuals seeking a fresh start.
Furthermore, talent Maomi Yuumori is planning to relocate to Malaysia as well, sharing her aspirations publicly this January, while columnist Matsuko Deluxe considers Thailand as her ultimate residence, demonstrating a shift in preferences among public figures towards Southeast Asia.
But what does it take for the average person to make such a move? Seven years ago, singer Nami Miue traded the bustling streets of Japan for the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam. Describing her experience, she outlines the realities of life in the Southeast Asian city, where the average monthly income is approximately 39,000 yen as of 2022. This translates to a considerably lower earning potential compared to Japan but offers a different cost of living that can be appealing, particularly for those who find work in international companies.
Teachers, considered high earners there, make around 150,000 yen, while those working service jobs earn about 100-200 yen an hour. Miue particularly highlights the emerging gig economy, where many adapt by taking on driving jobs on motorbikes, aligning their work hours with peak demand times. Many motorbike taxi drivers reportedly make around 150,000 yen monthly, painting a picture of an evolving job market that offers flexible work opportunities.
For those considering a move, economic factors play a crucial role. Miue explains the impact of currency rates on living expenses. Before the pandemic, one hundred yen equated to twenty thousand Vietnamese dong; currently, it has become one hundred twenty yen per twenty thousand dong. These shifts imply significant changes in living costs for expatriates and local workers alike,
Miue notes, “When exchanging Yens for dong, this means fewer dong are needed, significantly affecting how much one carries when moving between Japan and Vietnam, which alleviates financial pressures.” As such, the current exchange rate indicates that earning in dong may indeed be the wiser choice for expatriates, especially for those looking to establish regular savings.
Furthermore, Miue mentions the interest rates on savings accounts in Vietnam are potentially attractive, boasting about six percent annually. “Depositing your earnings into a local bank can yield significant returns over an extended period,” she emphasizes, urging those who earn in dong to consider this option.
Moreover, the cultural aspect of living in Southeast Asia, particularly in its more cosmopolitan areas, tends to contrast sharply with daily life in Japan. Religious influences are strong; Miue observes that the Buddhist presence does not generally hinder everyday life activities. Still, unique intersections of culture do arise, such as seeing altars or incense offerings due to deep-rooted spiritual practices common among locals.
In collaborations with local businesses and institutions, expatriates often find a warm reception. While knowing the language may enhance the experience, as shared by many expatriates, communication in English is improving as locals engage more with international communities.
This highlights how, while Vietnamese language skills may be beneficial, they are not strictly necessary for those wanting to live in more Japanese-centered areas. Miue points out: “While you do need Vietnamese for work in many instances, it is indeed possible to maintain a comfortable lifestyle within the Japanese community.”
This shift in lifestyle interest is especially prominent among younger generations, who are exploring possibilities of living abroad, drawn by the potential for a different and richer quality of life. As the excitement regarding Southeast Asia continues to grow, it poses the question: is this just a trend, or is there a sustainable future for expatriates looking to build their careers and lives in the heart of vibrant, tropical ecosystems that Southeast Asia offers?
Ultimately, with its enticing qualities—affordable living, rising job opportunities, and a slightly more laid-back lifestyle—Southeast Asia continues to present compelling reasons for relocation. As noted by various celebrities and expats alike, it may be the place to consider for those looking for a change.
