Hobbies and Activities for Foreign Teachers in Vietnam

Living and working in Vietnam as a foreign teacher is not only about teaching in the classroom, it is also about experiencing the local lifestyle, culture, and daily activities. Vietnam offers a wide range of hobbies and activities that help foreign teachers relax after work, meet new friends, and fully enjoy their stay.

In this article, we will explore the most popular hobbies and activities for foreign teachers in Vietnam, from cultural experiences to outdoor adventures and community life.

1. Exploring Vietnamese Food Culture

One of the most enjoyable hobbies for foreign teachers in Vietnam is exploring local cuisine.

• Try famous dishes such as pho, banh mi, bun cha, or com tam.
• Join a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese meals.
• Explore street food markets for authentic and affordable dishes.

Food exploration is not just eating, it’s a way to understand Vietnamese culture and connect with locals.

2. Outdoor Activities and Fitness

Vietnam has plenty of opportunities for foreign teachers to stay active and healthy.

• Jogging or cycling around parks and lakes in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
• Practicing yoga, Zumba, or joining fitness centers with both locals and expats.
• Going hiking or trekking in beautiful destinations such as Sapa, Ha Giang, or Da Lat.

Outdoor activities are a great way to balance teaching schedules and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

3. Traveling and Weekend Trips

Vietnam is known for its natural beauty and diverse landscapes. Foreign teachers can enjoy:

• Beach trips to Da Nang, Nha Trang, or Phu Quoc.
• Cultural experiences in Hoi An, Hue, or the Mekong Delta.
• Adventure travel such as motorbike tours, cave exploration, or mountain climbing.

With affordable transportation, teachers can easily plan weekend getaways to discover more of the country.

4. Learning Vietnamese and Cultural Exchange

Many foreign teachers choose language learning as a hobby.

• Taking Vietnamese classes helps improve daily communication.
• Practicing with students or local friends strengthens cultural understanding.
• Joining cultural exchange events or expat meetups helps teachers integrate faster.

Learning Vietnamese not only makes life easier but also shows respect for the host culture.

5. Arts, Music, and Creative Activities

Vietnam offers plenty of creative hobbies for teachers who love the arts.

• Joining painting or pottery workshops.
• Learning to play traditional Vietnamese musical instruments.
• Attending live music performances, from traditional shows to modern bands.

Creative activities provide relaxation and a chance to meet like-minded friends.

6. Volunteering and Community Involvement

Beyond teaching, many foreign teachers enjoy giving back to the community.

• Volunteering at local NGOs, orphanages, or charity organizations.
• Joining environmental activities such as tree planting or beach clean-ups.
• Supporting English clubs or free language exchange groups for local students.

These activities bring meaningful experiences and deeper connections with Vietnam.

Foreign teachers in Vietnam have endless options when it comes to hobbies and activities. From exploring street food and traveling across the country to joining cultural exchanges and volunteering, each activity enriches the teaching journey and daily life. Whether you are staying for a year or longer, taking part in these hobbies will not only help you relax and enjoy life in Vietnam but also create unforgettable memories.