chintan chavda

Rutu Kamlesh Khirani

In 2022, arriving in Hanoi felt like stepping into a world rich with history and architecture that tells its own stories. As an interior designer captivated by cultural depth, I was instantly drawn to Hanoi’s blend of French colonial facades, ancient pagodas, and buzzing street life. The Old Quarter, with its narrow, history-laden streets, seemed to freeze time, with each lane showcasing traditional houses with tiled roofs, wooden balconies, and delicate carvings—testaments to Vietnam’s enduring craftsmanship. The city’s spiritual side was equally compelling. At the Temple of Literature, honoring Confucius, I felt an almost meditative connection to wisdom from the past. Hoan Kiem Lake, alive each morning with locals practicing Tai Chi, captured Vietnam’s seamless balance between tradition and modernity. And the food—fragrant, rich, and brimming with flavor—told stories of heritage with every bite. For a birdwatcher who’s spotted over 500 species in India, Vietnam is a treasure trove. The diversity of its habitats offers endless possibilities, and I can’t wait to discover more. On my next visit, I’m eager to dive into the dynamic world around Ho Chi Minh City. The city’s energy is palpable, from the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica to the Saigon Central Post Office, historical gems that highlight a fascinating colonial past. In Ben Thanh Market, I’ll immerse myself in the flavors and craftsmanship of Vietnam. Beyond the city, the Mekong Delta beckons. Its rivers, floating markets, and lush landscapes are a dream for someone who thrives on culture and nature. And at the Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve—the “Green Lung” of Ho Chi Minh City—I hope to spot wading birds, colorful kingfishers, and maybe even the rare Painted Stork. This journey promises an unforgettable blend of the city’s vibrant pulse and the quiet majesty of Vietnam’s landscapes, each piece amplifying my admiration for this beautiful country. Vietnam, once again, will be a new adventure every day, a perfect tapestry of culture, architecture, and nature.

Ruchika Arora

A Journey of Love, Loss, and Rediscovery ! In January 2016, grief consumed me as I arrived in Goa, mourning the tragic loss of my first love to an accident. One evening by the ocean, a stranger approached, asking if he could take my picture. Numb from pain, I agreed. Weeks later, back in Delhi, he sent me the photo with a simple “Hello.” What started as a brief encounter blossomed into a friendship, offering a reprieve from my sorrow. Though his kindness warmed me, opening my heart again was daunting. He patiently supported me through my healing, and over time, our bond deepened. Our relationship wasn’t without its challenges—cultural differences (I was Punjabi; he was Bihari) and life’s uncertainties often raised questions. Yet, his unwavering love and his promise—“I will marry you, no matter what”—gave me strength. The next six years tested us. We faced family losses, personal struggles, and, during the pandemic in 2020, frequent arguments that nearly broke us. I considered moving to Germany for higher studies, seeking a fresh start, but just before I applied, he made a heartfelt plea: “Marry me.” His sincerity solidified my choice, and in December 2021, after complex family discussions, we secured their blessing. By November 2022, we were married—a love story that had survived heartbreak and cultural divides. Marriage brought both joy and trials. In January 2023, his father passed away, deepening our understanding of grief and resilience. Amid these struggles, I found myself questioning my career as a German teacher. I confided in him my dream of becoming a makeup artist. To my surprise, he supported me wholeheartedly, encouraging me to pursue my passion. His belief in me helped me face criticism and self-doubt as I rebuilt my career from scratch. Slowly, I gained confidence, clients, and a renewed sense of purpose. Life then gave us the ultimate surprise—I was pregnant! His joy and support during this journey, from late-night cravings to doctor’s appointments, reminded me of the strength of our partnership. Despite pregnancy’s challenges, his presence keeps me grounded as we prepare for this next chapter. Looking back, our journey has been one of healing, growth, and rediscovery. From strangers on a Goan beach to partners navigating life’s trials, we’ve built a love rooted in trust, sacrifice, and shared dreams. As we anticipate the arrival of our baby and plan new adventures as a family, I’m grateful for the life we’ve created together. Our story isn’t perfect, but it’s ours—a testament to the enduring power of love.

Abhishek Singh

As I scroll through pictures and read stories of Vietnam, my imagination comes alive with vivid colors, bustling markets, serene landscapes, and the aroma of tantalizing cuisine. This enchanting country, with its rich history, breathtaking scenery, and vibrant culture, has always been on my travel wishlist. The idea of visiting Vietnam for the first time fills me with excitement and anticipation. Let me tell you why I am so eager to embark on this journey to the heart of Southeast Asia. My dream/ passion of visiting new places has vietnam as one of the prominent places where I can explore life and bring the best of me. Financial baggage is surely a blocker to my dream hence I feel this opportunity is for me and my dream to be true one day.