Lokesh Kataria
My dream is to experience the beauty and culture of Vietnam by immersing myself in its food and nature. Vietnam’s cuisine is a vibrant reflection of its history, geography, and the passion of its people. I imagine walking through the bustling streets of Hanoi, savoring a bowl of fragrant pho, the perfect balance of herbs, spices, and savory broth. In every dish, from banh mi to spring rolls, there’s a story of tradition, innovation, and the connection between land and people. The street food culture, with its lively night markets and open-air stalls, fascinates me. I dream of tasting the crispy banh xeo in Ho Chi Minh City or enjoying fresh seafood along Vietnam’s endless coastline, while interacting with the vendors and chefs who put their heart into every meal.
Beyond the food, Vietnam’s natural landscapes call to me. I long to explore Ha Long Bay, where towering limestone cliffs rise majestically from emerald waters, offering a serene escape from the world. I picture myself floating through the Mekong Delta’s labyrinth of rivers, witnessing life unfold along the waterways—markets, farms, and homes all interwoven in a beautiful rhythm. I dream of visiting the rice terraces of Sapa, where green fields stretch as far as the eye can see, sculpted into the mountains by generations of farmers. In Hoi An, I would cycle through peaceful villages, absorbing the charm of a countryside that seems to exist in perfect harmony with its people.
Vietnam’s food and nature are deeply intertwined, and my dream is to explore this connection. From the farm-fresh ingredients used in daily cooking to the sustainable farming practices that respect the land, Vietnam exemplifies the symbiosis between humans and their environment. I want to document this journey through photographs and stories, capturing the vibrancy of its street markets, the serenity of its landscapes, and the warmth of its people.
With Vietjet, I hope to turn this dream into reality—to explore Vietnam’s diverse food culture and breathtaking nature and share these experiences with the world. Vietnam is a land of contrasts and wonders, where every meal, every landscape, and every interaction holds a story, and I long to be a part of it.