Jill

suresh choudhary

Vietnam, a land of rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, has always captured my imagination. The more I learn about this beautiful country, the deeper my fascination grows. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the peaceful rice terraces in Sapa, every corner of Vietnam seems to offer a story waiting to be told. What draws me most is the deep-rooted culture that blends ancient traditions with modernity. The spiritual influence of Buddhism, the colorful festivals,and the unique customs of ethnic communities reflect a country proud of its heritage. I am particularly intrigued by Vietnam’s art, from the intricate lacquer paintings to the soulful tunes of traditional music like *ca trù*. The food is another irresistible part of the culture – the fresh ingredients, the balance of flavors, and the sheer diversity of dishes such as *pho*, *banh mi*, and *bun cha* speak to Vietnam's rich culinary heritage. I am eager to taste the food as it’s meant to be enjoyed, right there in Vietnam, surrounded by the energy of the local markets. For me, visiting Vietnam is not just a travel goal but a dream. I long to walk through the historical sites, from the ancient town of Hoi An to the majestic limestone islands of Ha Long Bay. I want to immerse myself in the day-to-day life of the people, learning more about their stories, traditions, and way of life. It’s more than sightseeing – it's about truly understanding and experiencing the beauty of Vietnamese culture. Exploring Vietnam would be a journey of the heart, one where I connect with the past, present, and future of a nation that has long captivated my soul.

akshay shinde

Working as an International Business Development Manager has given me the chance to combine my love for travel, culture and food with my career goals. The last few days, I had the amazing chance to travel to Thailand and China, countries which are fascinating with their impeccable combination of the old and the new. Every journey is an eye opener as well as an opportunity to expand one’s worldview and this is exactly what motivates me to communicate my travels through my social media platforms. In Thailand, I enjoyed the hospitality of the people and the unique taste of their dishes. I learned about the traditions of the Thai people on my trips to the floating markets of Bangkok or on my attempts to taste the spicy som tum salad. Business meetings with me were sometimes occasions where cultural exchanges took center stage as my Thai partners would take me to their favorite places that were off the beaten track. When I came to think of China, I found grandeur in its history and marvel in its modernity. Socializing in the gleaming skyscrapers of Shanghai and walking through the old hutongs in Beijing made me feel the vast historical unknowns that are existent in the country as well as the progressive mindset. Eating, for example, Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), turned into a fantastic ceremony, with each meal seeming to be a narrative.

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.