From Military Service to a New Beginning Abroad
Markeiz Ryan, 36, grew up in Maryland with a stable childhood until the 2008 financial crisis disrupted his family’s financial security. His mother lost her job, and as Ryan graduated high school, the economic hardship prompted him to seek stability by joining the military.
“The best thing for me was to join the military so I wouldn’t have to put my family into any more debt and I think that was the right decision,” Ryan said.
Ryan enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 2010, serving in multiple countries, including Korea, Germany, and Africa. However, a disciplinary incident in Korea in 2016 led to a demotion and a period of restricted duties, which triggered a bout of depression.
A Life-Changing Visit to Vietnam
During his restriction period, Ryan planned a visit to a friend in Vietnam. The trip exceeded his expectations and marked a turning point in his mental health and outlook on life.
“I ended up having the best time of my life, and that depression was gone,” Ryan reflected.
Inspired by his experience, Ryan decided to return to Vietnam after completing his military service in 2019, seeking a fresh start.
Building a Comfortable Life in Ho Chi Minh City
Ryan now resides in a two-bedroom apartment in one of Ho Chi Minh City’s tallest residential towers. His monthly expenses include $850 in rent and approximately $130 for utilities, covering electricity, water, and housekeeping.
- Health insurance costs about $1,000 annually.
- Gas for his motorcycle averages $3 per week.
- Groceries range between $100 and $400 monthly, depending on dining habits.
Vietnam’s affordability allows Ryan to live comfortably on roughly $4,000 per month, a sum derived from a combination of Veterans Affairs disability payments, GI Bill benefits, English teaching, freelance voiceover work, and day trading.
“This might not sound like a lot in America but trust me, this is more than enough to be middle or even above middle class in Vietnam,” Ryan said.
Managing Health Challenges and Embracing Well-Being
Ryan contends with health issues stemming from his military service, including spine arthritis, respiratory difficulties, auditory pain, and mental health struggles. He receives disability support from the VA and is pursuing a master’s degree funded partly by GI Bill benefits. He cites Vietnam as the safest place he has lived, highlighting the calm atmosphere and the community’s focus on everyday life rather than political distractions.
“Vietnam is the number one safest place I’ve ever lived. I never have to look over my shoulder here,” Ryan remarked.
While he appreciates the peaceful environment, Ryan notes that noise pollution from street activity and karaoke can be a downside for those sensitive to sound.
Adapting to Life and Language in Vietnam
Since relocating, Ryan has made efforts to learn Vietnamese, achieving conversational proficiency that surpasses many expatriates. He has now lived in Vietnam for six years and expresses a strong commitment to staying indefinitely.
“If I leave, it’s because Vietnam told me to leave. In America, I felt very unmotivated. Here, you focus on what makes you happy,” Ryan explained.
Ryan contrasts his current lifestyle with his previous experience in the U.S., emphasizing a shift from survival mode to a more fulfilling and purpose-driven daily routine.
FinOracleAI — Market View
Markeiz Ryan’s story illustrates the growing trend of military veterans seeking affordable, quality lifestyles abroad. Vietnam’s low cost of living combined with a stable environment offers veterans opportunities to rebuild financially and mentally after service.
- Opportunities: Cost-effective living for veterans on fixed incomes; access to education and part-time employment; improved mental health via safer environments.
- Risks: Potential language barriers; cultural adaptation challenges; noise pollution and urban living discomforts.
Impact: Veteran relocation to countries like Vietnam may influence government veteran support programs and expand expatriate communities, highlighting the importance of affordable global living options for post-service transition.
