How the Goldstein Family Balances Work, Kids and Low‑Cost Living in Ho Chi Minh City

The Goldstein family’s story is a rare look at how an American expat household can blend work, family life and affordable living abroad. After arriving in Ho Chi Minh City in 2016, they have stayed for ten years, turning a short‑term plan into a long‑term home.

Marissa and Adam Goldstein established a company in Vietnam in 2015 to help American businesses diversify their supply chains. A year later, after their twins turned one, they moved to Ho Chi Minh City in 2016, originally planning only a three‑month stay.

Every month they spend about US$1,000 on fruits, vegetables and other groceries, and about US$900 on a domestic worker who cleans, cooks and helps with childcare. International school fees for each child range from US$8,000 to US$30,000 per year, so the family’s total outgoings are similar to those in the United States. A latte at a fancy café costs only around US$2, highlighting the low everyday prices.

Restaurant staff often hold and play with the twins when the family diners out, which makes the children feel safe and welcomed. The neighbourhood, a five‑bedroom serviced apartment 15 minutes from the city centre, is popular with foreigners and close to many international schools, good doctors, hospitals, Michelin‑rated street food, French bakeries and activities such as taekwondo and tennis. Marissa says hiring a private chef, nanny and driver has allowed her to grow her career while still caring for her children.

The Goldsteins treat Vietnam as a launchpad for worldwide travel. They frequently stay in homestays, camp in places like Phong Nha forest, or take RV trips, which helps a family of six avoid the hassle of hotels. So far they have taken their children to about 50 countries, visited Thailand around 20 times, explored New Zealand and learned to surf in Sri Lanka.

Their experience shows that an expat family can combine a thriving business, low‑cost living and international schooling to maintain a high‑quality lifestyle while traveling frequently. The Goldsteins demonstrate that balancing work, family and affordable abroad living is achievable.

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How the Goldstein Family Balances Work, Kids and Low‑Cost Living in Ho Chi Minh City

How the Goldstein Family Balances Work, Kids and Low‑Cost Living in Ho Chi Minh City

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