Expat Life Part 1: How I ended up in Vietnam

Vietnam Podcast: Culture, Community & Conversations

07-08-2024 • 32 mins

Have you ever wondered how a short vacation can turn into a life-changing adventure?

Niall Mackay shares the incredible story of how he and his wife Adrie ended up living in Vietnam for over eight years. What started as a brief six-week trip to complete an English teaching certification course turned into a multi-year adventure filled with unexpected twists and turns.

Niall takes listeners on a journey through their initial travels in Southeast Asia, their decision to teach English in Vietnam, and the serendipitous circumstances that led them to put down roots in Saigon. He shares the challenges and joys of their first years teaching, their plans to leave for Oman, and the last-minute job opportunity that changed everything. Throughout the episode, Niall's passion for Vietnam and the impact it has had on his life shines through, offering listeners a glimpse into the transformative power of embracing the unexpected.

Key Takeaways:

  • Niall and Adrie initially came to Vietnam for just 6 weeks in 2015
  • They decided to do their CELTA certification in Vietnam after a year of saving
  • The couple made the decision to stay and teach English at ILA after completing the course
  • A last-minute job opportunity as Community Network Manager made them decide to stay longer
  • Creating the podcast has changed Niall's life and led to nearly 75,000 downloads

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Episode Sponsors:

7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!

Tenzing Pacific - I highly recommend them for their professional advice related to personal, family, and business insurance.

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