If I Had Wings, I’d Fly to Vietnam: A Bird Watcher’s Dream The early morning light filters through the canopy, painting the forest floor with flecks of gold. My heart pounds with anticipation as I navigate a narrow trail deep in the heart of Vietnam’s Ke Go Nature Reserve. In the quiet stillness, the forest breathes, alive with the subtle rustle of leaves and the faint, melodious songs of unseen birds. This is no ordinary trip for me. As a devoted bird watcher and photographer, I’ve traveled to many corners of the world in pursuit of feathered wonders. Yet Vietnam, with its remarkable biodiversity and endemic treasures, has always been my dream—a destination where my passion for birds and photography could soar to new heights. Vietnam is a tapestry of habitats. From the towering limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay to the mist-laden highlands of Dalat, the country offers an unparalleled variety of ecosystems. Each habitat is a stage, and the birds are its vibrant performers. It’s here that I hope to catch a glimpse of the elusive Edwards's Pheasant, a bird so rare it feels like a whispered legend. As I step deeper into the forest, a flash of emerald catches my eye. My breath catches—it’s a Vietnamese Greenfinch, its feathers shimmering like sunlight on jade. I lift my camera, fingers trembling with excitement, and capture the moment. Later, in the dense mangroves of Can Gio, I spot a Spoon-billed Sandpiper wading delicately in the shallow waters. Its distinct bill—a spoon-shaped marvel—is a reminder of nature’s whimsical ingenuity. Watching this critically endangered bird feels like holding a fleeting piece of magic, a connection to a world that feels increasingly fragile. But the true marvel comes on my last day in the highlands of Bach Ma National Park. The morning mist clings to the trees as I settle near a clearing, camera at the ready. A low, haunting call cuts through the silence. Suddenly, from the undergrowth, emerges the Orange-breasted Laughingthrush. Its vibrant plumage glows against the muted greens of the forest, and its laughter-like call feels like nature’s purest joy. Vietnam isn’t just a destination for bird watchers; it’s a sanctuary for the soul. Its avian wonders remind me of the beauty and fragility of our natural world. Each bird I encounter here is a testament to resilience and grace, an inspiration to cherish and protect these treasures for generations to come. If I had wings, I’d fly to Vietnam without hesitation. Until then, I’ll carry these dreams, forever soaring on the wind of possibility.
Other submissions
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Mohammed Yasin
I am 34 years old, and till date, I have never traveled internationally or experienced a flight. If given the opportunity to win these free tickets, I would be the first person in my family to travel to Vietnam. Travel has always been my gateway to personal growth and discovery. My aspiration to visit Vietnam stems from a deep desire to immerse myself in its rich culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. From the ancient charm of Hanoi's Old Quarter to the serene beauty of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam offers an extraordinary blend of tradition and modernity that inspires exploration and self-reflection. This journey would allow me to learn about Vietnam’s unique heritage, from its vibrant festivals to its world-renowned cuisine. Engaging with local communities and exploring historical landmarks like the Cu Chi Tunnels or the imperial city of Hue would provide me with a profound understanding of resilience, creativity, and unity. These qualities are not just the essence of Vietnam but also traits I aspire to embody in my own life. A trip to Vietnam would significantly enhance my personal growth by expanding my global perspective. As someone passionate about cultural exchange, this experience would help me build bridges of understanding across cultures, enriching both my professional and personal life. Additionally, Vietnam's emphasis on sustainable tourism would inspire me to adopt eco-friendly practices, aligning with my goal of contributing to global conservation efforts. In essence, Vietnam is not just a destination; it’s a journey of learning, transformation, and aspiration. Through this experience, I hope to create lifelong memories, forge meaningful connections, and emerge as a more informed, inspired, and responsible global citizen.
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Atin Rane
My journey began with a simple idea: to capture the unseen. While others chased luxury and possessions, I craved the raw, unfiltered beauty of the earth. I wanted to remind people that life was more than glittering malls and glowing screens; it was in the whisper of the wind through ancient forests, the laughter of children in remote villages, and the silent majesty of mountains bathed in moonlight. One unforgettable day, I found myself deep in the heart of a desert, following whispers of a lost oasis. Hours of walking led me to a hidden paradise—a crystalline spring surrounded by vibrant flowers blooming defiantly against the barren sands. It felt like a secret the earth had kept, waiting for someone to listen. As I filmed, I realized that my camera wasn’t just a tool; it was a bridge. Through my lens, I could show the world that wonder still exists, waiting for those brave enough to seek it. I want my videos to be a call to action, urging people to step out of their comfort zones, leave materialism behind, and rediscover the richness of our planet. Every frame I capture is a reminder that the world is bigger, more beautiful, and more meaningful than we often allow ourselves to believe. And so, I’ll keep traveling, exploring, and filming, one unseen place at a time—hoping to inspire others to do the same. After all, the earth has endless stories to tell. All we have to do is listen.
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Priya Kapoor
As a software engineer and part-time travel creator, traveling is my ultimate energy booster. So far, I’ve explored 16 states and 5 Union Territories in India, spanning north to south and east to west. I’m passionate about uncovering hidden gems, making new friends, and capturing every moment through photographs and videos, which I share on my Instagram travel account, (sassy.alpinist). In 2021, I married the love of my life, and we planned our first international trip together to Vietnam, a destination we both dreamed of exploring for its rich culture, stunning landscapes, amazing food, and vibrant cities. Unfortunately, the pandemic delayed our honeymoon plans. We hoped to visit Vietnam for our first anniversary, but financial constraints led us to explore Northeast India instead. In 2023, life took an unexpected turn when I had a road accident resulting in a multi-ligament injury. After major surgery and 3-4 months of bed rest, it took nearly a year to regain my strength. Now that I’m fully fit, my dream of exploring Vietnam is alive again. However, financial limitations have made it challenging to plan the trip. I already have my itinerary ready, featuring must-visit destinations like Hanoi’s Old Quarter, the Temple of Literature, Ba Dinh Square, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Hoan Kiem Lake, Ninh Binh, a Halong Bay cruise, Phu Quoc, and Hoi An. Vietjet, I hope you can help me bring this dream to life and inspire others to explore the wonders of Vietnam!
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