Marqueiz Ryan, 36, US Air Force veteran, American. He’s created a life for himself in Vietnam, thriving today in the comforts of a two-bedroom flat in one of Ho Chi Minh City’s tallest residential high rises. Having now moved to Vietnam permanently, Ryan has submerged himself in the colourful culture and lifestyle. He goes on to say that his time there has been nothing short of life changing. Now, every day, he wakes up happy, excited to tackle a long to-do list consisting of personal goals. This happy daily ritual is a far cry from his former life in the United States.
On his initial trip to Vietnam, Ryan realized he was happier than he had been in years. He remembers, “It sounded like the best time ever and it totally lived up to all of that.” This first surge of happiness motivated him to stay in Vietnam and create a lifestyle where he focuses on his own well-being first. Ryan is completely unabashed in his pursuit of happiness. He feels that his fate in Vietnam rests on the country’s path forward. “If I leave, it’s Vietnam kicking me out,” he said.
Ryan lives a life of balance, dividing his time between working 40 hours a week and doing what he loves. His monthly income comes from a number of paired streams too — VA disability, the GI Bill, but also teaching English. He does some part-time work as a voiceover artist, but he put a ton of energy into day trading. Despite his incredibly hectic schedule, he’s found the time to make his ideas known. He points out the reduced financial burden of living in Vietnam compared to the US.
“In America, I felt very unmotivated. Forty hours a week, and you have absolutely nothing to show for it because you’re still living in poverty,” Ryan continued. “Whatever the case, here in Vietnam it removes much of the monetary stress from your daily life. You concentrate on your passion, your vision, who you want to be and how you’re going to get there.”
Detailing his living costs Ryan is adamant about living a good lifestyle. He suffers from spine arthritis and post-traumatic stress disorder from his military service. His monthly out of pocket for his rent is about $850. In addition to other expenses, he pays an estimated $130 monthly for utilities like electricity, water and household help. Living off roughly $4,000 a month allows him ample flexibility to enjoy life without the constant stress of financial instability.
He has lived in his new two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment for two years now and is not moving anytime soon. Ryan says that the view from his apartment definitely is the best thing about his place– it’s so great because it’s the most surprising thing. The scenery you can see from up here is amazing! I never want to miss it for anything. I am not resigning unless you make me go,” he said.
Ryan’s journey has given him not only financial stability, it has lifted him out of the deep depression he was once unable to escape. On the decision to make this change, he said, “I had the best time of my life, that depression was erased!