Expat Communities and Networking Events for Foreign Teachers in Vietnam

Moving to Vietnam as a foreign teacher is both exciting and challenging. While the country offers rich culture, delicious food, and vibrant cities, it can sometimes feel overwhelming to settle in a new environment. One of the best ways to adapt quickly is to connect with expat communities and join networking events. These groups provide professional support, social opportunities, and a sense of belonging.

In this guide, we’ll explore the expat communities and networking events in Vietnam that every foreign teacher should know.

1. Why Join Expat Communities in Vietnam?

Support system: Get advice on visas, housing, healthcare, and teaching opportunities.

Cultural exchange: Meet locals and expats from different countries.

Professional growth: Access job postings, training workshops, and career events.

Social life: Join language exchanges, sports clubs, and weekend trips.
 

2. Expat Communities:

In Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC)

As Vietnam’s economic hub, HCMC has one of the largest expat populations.

Popular groups and platforms:

• Internations HCMC – Professional networking with regular meetups (https://www.internations.org/ho-chi-minh-city-expats).
• Facebook Groups like Expats in Ho Chi Minh City and Vietnam Teaching Jobs.
• Meetup HCMC – Social events, from hiking groups to business networking (https://www.meetup.com/find/vn--ho-chi-minh-city/).

Teacher-friendly activities:

• Weekly networking nights in District 1.
• Language exchange cafés to practice Vietnamese.
• Sports leagues such as football, yoga, and dance classes.

In Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital, has a thriving teaching community, especially in English centers and international schools.

Popular groups and platforms:

• Hanoi Massive – A long-standing expat forum.
• Internations Hanoi – Great for professional teachers and lecturers. (https://www.internations.org/hanoi-expats)
• Hanoi Life / Hanoi Teaching Jobs on Facebook.

Teacher-friendly activities:

• Art workshops in Tay Ho district.
• Weekend hikes to Ba Vi or Tam Dao.
• Networking events at co-working spaces like Toong and UP.

In Da Nang & Hoi An

For teachers seeking a coastal lifestyle, Da Nang and Hoi An offer smaller but tight-knit expat groups.

Popular groups and platforms:

• Da Nang Hoi An Expats (Facebook).
• Meetup Da Nang: Focus on digital nomads and teachers (https://www.meetup.com/da-nang-social-meetup/).
• Surfing, yoga, and volunteer projects.

Teacher-friendly activities:

• Monthly teacher meetups in An Thuong (Da Nang’s expat area).
• Social nights at beachside cafés.
• Cultural exchange programs with local students.
   

3. Networking Events for Teachers in Vietnam

Internations Events

• Held in Hanoi, HCMC, and Da Nang.
• Professional and social gatherings where teachers can build networks.

Teacher Training Workshops

• Organized by language centers and education agencies.
• Great for career development and meeting other educators.

Language Exchange Meetups

• Teachers can practice Vietnamese while helping locals with English.
• Popular in Hanoi Old Quarter and HCMC’s District 1.

Community Volunteering Projects

• Teaching English in rural schools or orphanages.
• Builds meaningful connections while giving back to the community.
   

4. Tips for Getting Involved

• Join Facebook expat groups before arriving in Vietnam.
• Attend at least one networking event per month to expand your circle.
• Explore co-working spaces, as many host events for teachers and freelancers.
• Don’t hesitate to connect with local teachers, building cross-cultural friendships makes life easier.

Vietnam has a thriving expat scene, especially for teachers. From professional groups in Hanoi and HCMC to the laid-back coastal communities in Da Nang and Hoi An, there are countless opportunities to connect. By joining expat communities and networking events, foreign teachers can quickly settle in, find support, and enjoy both work and social life in Vietnam.