Haven't been to Vietnam in a few years, need to check it out again. When my embassy stopped the income verification and Thailand would not consider another option than to put money in the bank. I knew it was time to vacate. Not because of the money really, several things. The horrible air pollution and constant worrying about the paperwork.
I finally settled on Sout America. I do not regret my decision at all. And wish I would have done it years ago. More expensive , drop dead nature (love that). Women are not easy at allll. But, it is to my liking, very affectionate. I only stay 6 months a year, but it is hassle free, no paperwork except one extension by internet. 36 dollars. I can breath the air, have ultra modern accommodations.
Rip offs are as bad as Thailand, but that goes with the territory of living an expat life.
As a US citizen, I am only a few hours out and the time zone is the same. I did not realize how much of a benefit that was. But, it is very very nice for me.