Arvind Jaju

Jitesh Kalwani

Embarking on a journey to Vietnam is like opening a book filled with tales of enchanting landscapes, vibrant cultures, and an indomitable spirit that ignites the passion of every traveler. With each page turned, a new adventure begins, a story waiting to be told, a memory etched in the heart forever. This is my story, a tale of how Vietnam sparked a flame within me, a creative fire that I now share with the world. So, join me as I recount my journey through this mesmerizing land, and perhaps, you too will be inspired to explore the wonders of Vietnam. As I stepped off the plane and onto the bustling streets of Hanoi, the capital city greeted me with a symphony of sounds: the honking of motorbikes, the chatter of street vendors, and the sizzling of street food. The air was thick with the aroma of pho simmering on every corner, beckoning me to indulge in the culinary delights that Vietnam is famed for. It was here, amidst the chaos and charm of Hanoi's Old Quarter, that I felt the first spark of inspiration. I wandered through the labyrinth of narrow streets, each turn revealing a new facet of Vietnamese life. There were shops adorned with colorful silk lanterns, ancient temples steeped in history, and markets brimming with fresh produce and handcrafted goods. The vibrancy of it all was overwhelming, yet it was the smiles of the locals that truly captured my heart. Their warmth and hospitality were as inviting as the country itself, and I knew that this was just the beginning of my love connection with Vietnam. Venturing further, I found myself in the serene beauty of Ha Long Bay, where thousands of limestone karsts rose majestically from the emerald waters. Aboard a traditional junk boat, I sailed through this natural wonder, each moment more breathtaking than the last. The bay was a canvas of awe-inspiring scenery, a place where legends came to life and where the whispers of ancient tales echoed in the wind. It was here, surrounded by the grandeur of nature, that my passion for storytelling reignited. The journey continued to the imperial city of Hue, where the past lingered in the air like a delicate perfume. The grandeur of the Citadel, with its palaces and temples, was a testament to the country's regal history. As I strolled through the gardens and along the Perfume River, I was transported back in time, imagining the lives of emperors and the splendor of their courts. Vietnam's rich heritage was a wellspring of inspiration, fueling my desire to delve deeper into its stories. In the heart of Vietnam, Hoi An awaited with its enchanting allure. The ancient town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was a tapestry of history and culture. At night, the town transformed into a magical scene, with lanterns casting a golden glow on the cobbled streets. The lantern festival, a celebration of light and life, was a spectacle that left me spellbound. The floating lanterns, each carrying a wish or a dream, reminded me of the shared hopes that connect us all.

Vasundhara Suruliandi

One of the most common questions people ask me about my travels is "how do I convince my parents to let me travel to all these places " Truth is when i started travelling i got strong resistance from my parents especially when i wanted to travel solo. I've always had the privilege of making my own choices. I typically inform them of my travel plans when i have almost everything booked and i might have to leave in someday. Even if my parents do not agree with my choices they have not interfered with them. I m well aware, even this is a privilege that not many have. But over the time they have changed, atleast i no longer recieve dramatic expressions from them. My first trip to vietnam is one that even i was surprised to know that they didn't have any issue but just wanted to know my itinerary to ensure i travel safe. Freedom alone may not guarantee happiness, but it sure is a good starting point. By Freedom, i dont mean about being able to travel to different country or running away to mountains. But the freedom to choose what each of us want in our lives. Although my last trip to Vietnam was short, still i was able to get a glimpse of soul of the country. Someday i hope i can return back to Vietnam and get to see more of the country side and many more beautiful memories the country has to offer.

Kabir Jaiswal

Kabir was born into a struggling family in a small town, where he grew up as the eldest of three siblings. Despite their financial hardships, Kabir displayed a deep love for learning from a young age. His father worked long hours at a factory, and his mother contributed by stitching clothes at home. Even with both parents working, the family could barely afford necessities, let alone Kabir’s education. But Kabir was determined to succeed. He studied late into the night by candlelight, skipped meals to save money, and took on odd jobs to contribute to his family’s income. As he entered high school, Kabir's challenges intensified. His father’s health declined, increasing the family’s expenses, and Kabir had to work even harder to support them while studying. Often exhausted and malnourished, he continued to excel in school, motivated by a vision of a life beyond poverty. Teachers noticed his dedication and encouraged him to apply for scholarships, which helped him secure a place in college. There, Kabir faced mounting tuition fees, forcing him to take up three part-time jobs while balancing his studies. The physical and emotional toll was heavy, but he endured, constantly driven by the desire to help his family and uplift others. Over time, his commitment attracted more students, some walking miles to attend his classes. Kabir didn’t just teach subjects; he shared his story, instilling values of resilience and perseverance. Kabir’s work gradually expanded as he partnered with NGOs and other organizations, gaining additional resources to improve his school’s infrastructure and curriculum. He hired teachers, offered scholarships, and introduced programs that encouraged creativity and critical thinking. Through his journey from hardship to impact, Kabir became a beacon of hope in his community. His story inspired others to value education and to dream of a brighter future. For Kabir, the greatest reward was not in recognition, but in seeing his students, who once doubted they could pursue an education, grow into confident individuals with the power to change their own lives. Kabir’s school, born out of struggle and compassion, became a cornerstone for his town, showing that with determination and empathy, even the most challengi