Hoi An is a culturally rich destination, perfect for digital nomads and remote workers. With a ton of attractions, natural beauty, and affordable cost of living, this place attracts digital nomads from all over the world.
The city has certainly become famous over the recent years, especially since the rise of digital nomad culture. If you are thinking about packing your bags and moving here, make sure to go over this digital nomad guide. Let’s discuss different aspects of the digital nomad lifestyle in Hoi An and see what it’s like to live there!
Where is Hoi An located?
Hoi An is a beautiful city in Vietnam, located a short distance away from Da Nang. It is situated in central Vietnam’s Quang Nam province, near the mouth of the Thu Ban River.
Fact: Did you know that Hoi An is a perfectly well-preserved example of a Southeast Asia trading port from the 15th century?
Why Choose Hoi An as a Digital Nomad? Pros and Cons
If you are unsure about your decision to move here, make sure to weigh all the probable pros and cons. Moving is a huge commitment so don’t make any permanent decisions unless you are sure this is the best fit for you. Let’s delve into some of the advantages and flaws to help you out!
| Pros | Cons |
| Laid-back lifestyle | Sanitary issues |
| Low cost of living | Undeveloped public transportation |
| Growing digital nomad community | Hot summers |
| Ancient culture | Humidity |
| Natural beauty | |
| Colorful architecture |
As you can see, Hoi An has a lot to offer for digital nomads! You can have a great living experience in this city and call it your home for a long time. If you are willing to look past some of its flaws, you’ll be able to enjoy the numerous facilities. The weather is a huge factor so make sure to consider it realistically.
How to Get to Hoi An?
There are a handful of ways to get to the city. Take a look below to learn about them.
By air
Hoi An doesn’t have its own airport as of now so visitors are required to land 30km away from the city I.e. at the Da Nang Airport. Once you have landed there via connecting or direct flight, here’s how to get to Hoi An. You can also get to HO Chi Minh City or Hanoi first, depending on available prices and affordability. One of the most convenient and comfortable ways of getting to the city after a long flight is by taking a taxi.
By rail
Hoi An doesn’t have its own railway station either but visitors can arrive at the Da Nang station. Since this is the closest station to Hoi An, it’ll take less than an hour to get to the city. you can travel via taxi, bus, or car rental once you have made it to the station.
By road
visitors can also get to Hoi An by road. There are various options including but not limited to private taxi services and public buses. you can contact them online or register on spot at stations and airports. This is a reliable and efficient way of traveling to the city.
Transportation and How to Get Around Hoi An?
Unfortunately, there’s no public transportation in Hoi An. However, there are plenty of options for once you have arrived in the city, here’s how you can get around normally.
Motorcycles
Motorcycles are one of the most affordable and reliable ways of getting around the city. There are plenty of good rentals available but you can buy a second-hand vehicle as well. The low cost of fuel and comparatively wide roads make this a viable option.
Cycling
Cycling is also a feasible and well-used traveling option in Hoi An. In fact, it might just be the most affordable option! You can travel at your own pace and have freedom of movement without having to spend large amounts. Bicycles can be rented as well but purchase is recommended for longer stays.
Taxis
Since traffic is not half as bad as Ho Chi Min, Chiang Mai, or other major cities, taxis are a great way of traveling in Hoi An. Not only are they reliable but comfortable as well. Reputable companies such as Faifoo and Mai Linh offer great services and extra safety.
3 Best Accommodation Options in Hoi An
One of the best things about Hoi An is the variety of available accommodation options here. you can find the perfect area based on what you are looking for but here are the best options.
An Hoi
most popular for its vibrant nightlife, An Hoi is the perfect area if you want to be surrounded by action and chaos. This is a great place for digital nomads who have come to Hoi An for its bustling environment and cultural diversity. This neighborhood is located on the other side of the Thu Bon River and houses interesting architectural masterpieces.
Old town
Another great option is Hoi An’s old town. The ancient town is not only the historic center but the beating heart of the city. you can immerse yourself in the people and see exactly what it’s like to live as a local. This area is rich in culture, activities, and traditions so you’ll be sure to have a splendid time. make sure to explore the colorful markets and buildings during your time here.
Cam Pho
For those of you who are looking for an affordable option, Cam Pho is the perfect place for you. Despite being budget-friendly, this area is trendy and offers a great living experience. This neighborhood has a convenient location that allows easy access to tourist attractions and popular destinations.
Internet Connectivity in Hoi An
Hoi An has decent enough internet speeds and coverage that remote workers can work easily. While the internet is not extraordinary, it’s reliable and suitable for remote work. You can ensure extra reliability by buying an E local sim card upon arrival. There are a lot of good providers in the city so make sure to compare packages before making a decision.
Esims
Better yet, you can get an Esim. The best part about them is that you can avoid the hassle of a physical SIM card. Make sure to compare data plans before you choose your provider.
Holafly
| Data validity | Days | Price |
| Unlimited data | 7 days | 29$ (27€) |
| Unlimited data | 10 days | 37$ (34€) |
| Unlimited data | 15 days | 51$ (47€) |
| Unlimited data | 20 days | 62$ (58€) |
| Unlimited data | 30 days | 75$ (70€) |
Airalo
| Data validity | Days | Price |
| 1 GB | 7 days | 4.50$ (4.20€) |
| 2 GB | 15 days | 7$ (6.54€) |
| 3 GB | 30 days | 9.50$ (8.88€) |
| 5 GB | 30 days | 13$ (12.15€) |
| 10 GB | 30 days | 21$ (19.62€) |
3 Best Places to Work from in Hoi An
Remote workers would be happy to learn that there are a lot of great coworking spaces and cafes to work from.
Hub Hoi An coworking
If you are looking for a well-developed and equipped workspace in the city, hub Hoi An coworking is the best place for you. This is one of the most famous coworking spaces in the city and has a diverse community. Remote workers, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs seem to love this place.
Vietnam Sustainable Space
Vietnam Sustainable Space is undoubtedly one of the best co-working spaces in the city. best known for their flexibility, they provide a great working environment and numerous facilities. You can work here for hours and choose your working routine. It also happens to be one of the most affordable options in Hoi An.
Cafes
If you are someone who prefers working from cafes rather than coworking spaces then Hoi An has got you covered. Thanks to the big cafe culture in the city, there are plenty of great coffee shops and cafes where remote workers can work. some of the best options include:
- Nourish Eatery
- Avos and Mangos
- Dingo Deli
Cost of Living in Hoi An
Hoi An experiences an affordable cost of living that is best described as average. While it is not the cheapest digital nomad destination out there, it’s certainly budget-friendly. A digital nomad can access various facilities and modern amenities at a cheap rate. Here is a rough breakdown of general expenses there.
| Meal | $1.85 (€1.70) |
| Coffee | $1.42 (€1.30) |
| Beer | $1.00 (€0.92) |
| Apartment in the city center (one-bedroom apartment) | $223/month (€205) |
| Fitness club | $34.80/month (€32) |
| Utilities | $44.36/month (€40.76) |
| Internet | $9.35 (€8.59) |
| Local transport | $0.30/trip (€0.28) |
As you can see, Hoi An is not all that expensive. You can live here on a tight budget and make the best out of your time. However, please note that the cost of living is defined by an individual’s spending pattern and lifestyle. If you follow a standard digital nomad lifestyle, you’ll find these estimates to be quite accurate.
Culture, Nature, and Food in Hoi An
Hoi An is a proper cultural tapestry, filled with vibrancy, colors, and hustle. The local culture is celebrated in various traditions, events, and festivities. The locals specifically hold it in high regard. You can also experience the rich culture by visiting cultural attractions and learning about the beautiful history. Hoi An is a highly cultural city with welcoming and friendly people.
Nature lovers would be happy to learn that the city is abundant in natural beauty. There are a lot of beautiful beaches and national parks nearby that allow a wide range of outdoor activities. You can engage in nature-related activities and have tranquil experiences.
Vietnamese food is not only delicious but cheap as well. Believe it or not, you can get a full meal for under 2$(1.86€)! Vietnam street food is especially popular and some must-try dishes are pho soup, Nam cake, and pork rolls. Since the cafe culture is pretty big around here, you can enjoy amazing food and brunches. Other than that, there are plenty of good restaurants as well.
Best Time to Visit Hoi An
While the best time to visit a city is based on an individual’s personal preferences, there are some things that you need to keep in mind. Firstly, Hoi An’s heat can get extreme and temperatures can rise as high as 30 degrees Celsius. May and August are the hottest months but also the perfect time for beaches.
Other than that, the rainy season (wet season) lasts from September to January and brings frequent rain showers. Considering all of this, the best time to visit Hoi An is between March and May. These are the ideal months for exploring the city and seeing all the attractions. The weather will be neither too hot nor too cold, hence perfect for touristy activities.
12 Best Things to Do in Hoi An
One thing about Hoi An is that you’ll never be bored here. There is plenty to do but here are the 12 best things.
1. Tour the city
One of the first and most important things to do in any city includes a guided tour. While you can explore the city on your own, a tour can make the exploration process more comprehensive. Hoi An has a lot of hidden gems that can only be seen with a guide’s help.
2. Visit the An Bang beach
if you want to enjoy a day in the sand and cool down. off, visit the famous An Bang Beach. located only 7 km away from the Ancient town, this beach offers a great experience. you can find everything from fresh coconuts and beers to other street food items.
3.Go on a sunset cruise
Another great thing to do in Hoi An is going on a sunset cruise. you can have an unforgettable time on the Thu Van river and enjoy unparalleled views. The sunset from here is simply mesmerizing and unlike anything you’ll ever see.
4. Take a cooking class
There is no doubt that Vietnamese cuisine is one of the most delicious foods out there. If you happen to fall in love with local cuisine, make sure to take a cooking class and learn the traditional recipes! you can take this invaluable knowledge with you and have a taste of Hoi An whenever you answer wherever you want.
5. Go shopping
your visit to Hoi An will be incomplete without a proper shopping spree. Since the city is famous for its tailoring industry, get some custom-made clothing and see what the hype is about. we guarantee you won’t be disappointed! Furthermore, Silk Village is the best place for luxury textiles and handmade items.
6. Visit the ancient town
If you want to appreciate and learn about Hoi An’s rich history, explore the ancient town properly. Start your tour from the historical Japanese Covered beach and make your way in the depths of this town. make sure to take your time while exploring the surrounding areas as everything holds great importance.
7. Go cycling
When in Hoi An, make sure to go cycling around the beautiful countryside area. You can travel around Can Thanh Road, Ancient Town, and see the stunning Rice fields of Cam Chau along the way. In case you don’t own a bike, you can easily acquire one from one of the many rentals in the city.
8. Visit the night markets
The night markets in Hoi An are something else entirely. with a bustling environment and colorful aura, these markets are simply vibrant. some of the best options include
- Hoi An night market for local food, jewelry, and trinkets
- Hoi An market
- street food market
9. Enjoy the nightlife
Hoi An is somewhat famous for its vibrant nightlife so make sure to enjoy that during your time here! You can find amazing bars, tons of nightlife activities, and live music in this city. Hoi An’s bustling environment and cultural diversity make nightlife so much more interesting. make sure to visit the Dive Bar and Mango Mango.
10. Go bar hopping
While we are on the subject of nightlife, make sure to go bar hopping in Hoi An! There are a range of cocktail bars and clubs in the city that offer an amazing experience and lively atmosphere. For a fun night out, consider dancing the night away at one of these bars and exploring as many as possible.
11. Go cafe hopping
Another great thing to do in Hoi An is going cafe hopping. Almost every Digital Nomad and remote worker has a special inclination and liking towards cafes. you’ll be happy to learn that this city houses tons of them. The cafe culture is pretty big around here and offers a variety of options.
12. Connect with fellow digital nomads
You can also interact with the thriving digital nomad community in Hoi An and form connections. This can improve the quality of your trip by providing a sense of community and friendship. It’s always more fun to explore the city with like-minded individuals. You can connect the old-fashioned way at cafes and coworking spaces or try joining Facebook groups.
Is Hoi An safe?
Vietnam ranks 45th out of all the countries in safety terms which means the safety is above average. The entire country has a good safety situation and Hoi An is no exception. This city accommodates visitors and allows solo digital nomads to travel with ease of mind.
The crime rate is extremely low while the locals are friendly and hospitable. You’ll find yourself right at home and find it easy to explore the city.
However, as a foreigner in a new city, we would recommend you stay cautious of your surroundings and take safety measures. Make sure to contact the respective authorities if you feel endangered.
Visa Requirements in Hoi An
Vietnam doesn’t necessarily offer a digital nomad visa. However, remote workers can enter and stay in the country on an Evisa or tourist visa. You can apply for either of these by going to a Vietnam embassy/consulate in your home country or by filling out the application online. In some cases, you can also get a visa on the spot after landing at the airport.
Vietnam also allows you to get a visa on arrival. An E-visa validates your visit for 30 days while a visa-on-arrival remains valid for 3 months.
Here are some basic visa requirements:
- Passport
- Vietnam visa digital nomad application form
- Proof of visa-fee payment
- Visa approval letter
- The enter and exit form
- Passport size photos
Conclusion
Towards the end, it’s safe to say that Hoi An is a great place for digital nomads and remote workers. This city offers a ton of facilities and opportunities, making it a suitable place for people who are finding their footing.
with a rich culture, beautiful history, and natural beauty, Hoi An promises a great experience for anyone willing to explore it. You can settle here for a long time and call this place your home. We hope this ultimate guide helped you understand the digital nomad lifestyle. If you have any further queries, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to help!
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