Even though Cambodia is not technically Communist, it is certainly authoritarian, and legally the framework of Vietnam and Cambodia are very similar, after all Vietnam set up the government and laws here. I would say neither country is 100% Communist, after all, private enterprise not owned by the state is allowed.
That being said, like you, I am not pro-anything, perhaps anti all governments I have encountered, some less than others. Because I don't vote and don't really believe in politricks, I have no reason to say bad things about the ruling party here, and I fell at my age my stupid opinions on politics are mine and mine alone. For this reason wherever I go in the world, I feel it is my responsibility to adapt or move, but not to be a revolutionary where politics are concerned, especially in a place that hasn't give me citizenship. I totally agree with you, it's not as bad as it sounds, especially to 'Mericans. At least a poor person can have $500 in savings and a dream, and be totally successful with a good idea, kind of like our country in the Ellis Island days minus the racism but plus no chance at citizenship 🤣.
Yeah as a visitor you don't want to get involved in politics at all. That will be a quick way to get deported or put in jail.
I don't even remember what they were attempting to protest but someone was trying to organize some sort of public protest in the expat community against the government and some Vietnamese people in the group chat said something along the lines of "guys, this isn't Los Angeles, if you do that shit here you are going to jail." I was never going to participate in it anyway but I thought the blunt response was pretty epic.