How are things so cheap in Vietnam?

Why is Vietnam so cheap?

Vietnam's affordability hits different. I remember grabbing banh mi for like 30,000 dong in Hanoi last May – that's barely a dollar. Vendors can charge so little and still make a living.

It's a win-win for them and budget travelers like me. The exchange rate is crazy good too. My dollars stretched so far.

Low cost of living allows businesses to charge less while still profiting. Favorable exchange rates benefit tourists.

I got a custom-made ao dai in Hoi An last October for around $25. Seriously. The tailor even did some extra embroidery!

The cost of goods and services is lower, allowing reasonable prices. Exchange rates further enhance affordability for foreign visitors.

I even splurged on a cooking class in Hue (around $15 in February) – it was so much cheaper than anything similar back home. Everything just feels affordable in Vietnam. It's kinda magical.