Love Island Star Finds Happiness and Savings in Vietnam After UK Exit
Diamanté Laiva, who rose to fame on season 11 of Love Island, has made a dramatic lifestyle shift by leaving the United Kingdom for a new home in Vietnam. The 23-year-old reality star, formerly based in Gillingham, Kent, now resides in a lavish apartment in Da Nang, where she reports being "100 times happier" due to warmer weather, lower living costs, and a more positive environment.
Escaping the UK's Financial and Climatic Challenges
One of the primary drivers behind Diamanté's relocation was the steep cost of living in Britain. In Kent, she privately rented a one-bedroom flat for £950 per month, not including additional expenses. This was compounded by £250 monthly for car parking, £116 for council tax, and approximately £200 in bills. She described the experience as isolating and financially draining, noting that simple outings could cost £100.
In stark contrast, her new apartment in Vietnam costs just £500 per month, inclusive of bills. She secured this deal with a six-month contract during the rainy season, when prices were particularly low. The residence offers amenities like a sauna, swimming pool, and jacuzzi, enhancing her quality of life without breaking the bank.
Embracing a Warmer and More Affordable Lifestyle
Vietnam's climate has been a significant upgrade for Diamanté, with temperatures reaching 26°C in February, compared to what she called the "miserable" and "grey" weather of the UK. She emphasized that the constant rain and gloom in Britain negatively impacted mental health, whereas in Vietnam, the happiness of locals has a contagious effect on her wellbeing.
Financially, the benefits extend beyond housing. Diamanté saves money on food by eating out daily, with meals like burger and chips costing around £3 and healthy options like chicken and rice delivered for £1.50-£2. She highlighted the absence of extortionate delivery fees, unlike services such as Uber Eats in the UK.
Entrepreneurial Opportunities and Future Plans
As an entrepreneur running a body enhancement brand and a marketing agency for hospitality businesses, Diamanté felt the UK was no longer conducive to her ventures. She stated, "The UK is just not a place for entrepreneurs at the moment," and sees little hope for improvement soon. Her move to Vietnam has opened up new possibilities, aligning with her business goals.
Looking ahead, Diamanté has no regrets about leaving the UK and is embracing uncertainty. Her long-term plans remain open, with a gut feeling pulling her toward the United States, though she acknowledges needing a holiday there first to explore options. She concluded, "Life is exciting right now because even I don’t know what’s happening next."
This story reflects a growing trend of Brits seeking better opportunities abroad, driven by factors like high living costs, unfavorable weather, and limited entrepreneurial prospects in the UK.
