Vietnam ranked world’s cheapest country for travel, expat living: French media

The ranking draws on data from InterNations, which evaluates living conditions for foreign residents worldwide and publishes an annual index of the most affordable countries, the Vietnam News Agency reported.

The platform’s latest findings show that the country continues to top the global list for lowest cost of living in 2026, retaining the number-one position for a fifth straight year.

Survey results reveal strong satisfaction among foreign residents, with 89 percent saying they are happy with the cost of living, while 87 percent report their income allows them to live very comfortably.

The report says these figures reflect exceptionally competitive prices across daily expenses, including food, accommodation, transportation, and tourism services.

Fuel costs about €0.7 (US$0.82) per liter, while an everyday meal can cost less than €1 ($1.17), figures described as strikingly low compared to European price levels.

The relatively low value of the Vietnamese dong also boosts purchasing power for foreign visitors and workers, making the country especially appealing for Europeans seeking affordable destinations without sacrificing cultural richness.

Vietnam’s affordability extends across nearly all aspects of daily life.

Street food remains one of the country’s biggest draws.

In cities such as Hanoi, iconic dishes like ‘pho,’ ‘banh mi,’ and ‘bun cha’ (rice noodles with grilled pork and meatballs) typically cost between €1 and €3 ($3.53), prices rarely found in many other global tourist hubs.

Accommodation is similarly inexpensive.

Budget hostels offer dormitory beds from about €5 ($5.89) per night, while traditional guesthouses and hotels typically range from €8 ($9.43) to €20 ($23.57) per night, making the country accessible to backpackers, long-term travelers, and families alike.

Transportation also places little strain on visitor budgets.

Monthly public transport passes cost around €7 ($8.25), taxi fares average under €0.5 ($0.59) per kilometer, and fuel prices remain among the lowest internationally.

Tourism experiences also offer excellent value.

A two-day cruise in Ha Long Bay costs about €100 ($118), typically including accommodation on a traditional boat, meals, kayaking, and cave visits.

In the northern highlands, a two-day trekking tour through rice terraces in Sa Pa costs about €60 ($71), including a local guide, meals, and a homestay.

Such pricing, combined with diverse landscapes and rich cultural experiences, has helped make Vietnam one of Southeast Asia’s most popular travel destinations, attracting around 17.5 million international visitors in 2025.

As many European households tighten spending while still seeking meaningful travel and overseas living opportunities, French media say the country continues to stand out for combining low costs with high-quality experiences.

For many expatriates and travelers alike, its consistent top ranking confirms its status as the world’s most affordable place to live and explore.