Prachi Thakkar

Annant Jain

India is a mosaic of cultures, and as an Indian, I've had the joy of exploring its vast, colorful diversity firsthand. From the serene backwaters of Kerala to the spiritual ghats of Varanasi, the towering Himalayas to the bustling streets of Mumbai, each corner of my country has left me spellbound. These journeys have taught me that culture isn’t just something we see; it’s a way of life. In Rameshwaram, I felt the sacred depth of devotion. In Sikkim, the tranquil monasteries nestled in mountains reminded me of the beauty in simplicity. Each destination enriched my understanding of my own roots, showing me new facets of India’s soul. But now, a new curiosity has grown in me—a desire to explore cultures beyond India’s borders, to see how people across the world live, believe, and celebrate. Among all the places I dream of visiting, Vietnam has captured my imagination the most. I envision myself wandering through the narrow streets of Hanoi, savoring the fragrance of fresh pho from street stalls, and watching the sun rise over the majestic Ha Long Bay. There’s something captivating about Vietnam—a country that has preserved its identity through history’s many challenges. It feels like an echo of my own land’s resilience, yet uniquely its own. I want to walk through Hoi An, where lanterns illuminate ancient streets, to see the blend of past and present in Ho Chi Minh City, where tradition meets progress seamlessly. In the faces of Vietnamese elders, I hope to see reflections of wisdom, resilience, and warmth, and in their festivals, the same sense of unity and joy that defines our celebrations in India. I long to share meals with local families, to hear their stories, and experience their world, not as an observer but as a participant. Vietnam, for me, is a gateway to the world—a first step into the wider human story. My dream isn’t just about ticking off destinations; it’s about connecting with people, learning from their customs, and letting these experiences shape me. Each culture has its own lens, and I want to see through them all—from the pyramids of Egypt to the fjords of Norway, from Moroccan souks to the shrines of Japan. The world’s diversity is a treasure, and I am ready to step into it, carrying with me the lessons and warmth of my Indian heritage, and an open heart ready to embrace the unknown.

Tosif Mansuri

Hello! My name is Tosif Mansuri and I am a student who is full of dreams and aspirations. There is always a hope in a students backpack. I have travelled the length and breadth of India, starting from the small lanes of Ajmer, the majestic Chittorgarh Forts, diamond markets of Surat to the lakes of Udaipur and the calmness of Ratlam. My experience in all of these cities has been peaceful because one way or the other, each of these cities have inspired me and instilled my desire to wander more. However, my vision does not end inside the borders of my homeland. It has always interested me what else is out there, because there is so much to see in this world, so many cultures to experience. I can almost feel it now as I picture myself strolling along the streets of Vietnam, taking in the scent of fresh Pho, visiting the mesmerizing beaches of Ha Long Bay, and immersing myself in the intricate arts and history of the nation. Being a student made travelling abroad feel like a dream that I could not afford. But when I laid my eyes on Vietjet’s “Love Connection” contest, I felt a surge of optimism. This contest does not only aim at winning tickets, but also serves as a good opportunity for me to make my initial push towards my dream of travelling the world. What drives me? I love reading stories. Every place has its own story to tell be it the people, the food, the scenery, or even the music. I want to preserve

Shantanu Garg

As someone passionate about exploring the world, I’m drawn to destinations rich in natural beauty, vibrant culture, and deep history. Vietnam embodies all these qualities and more. It offers a perfect blend of breathtaking landscapes, fascinating traditions, and unforgettable experiences that I’m eager to immerse myself in. My desire to visit Vietnam is rooted in my love for travel—a passion sparked during an incredible journey to Thailand. That adventure taught me to embrace the unfamiliar, and it deepened my appreciation for the beauty of Southeast Asia. A Thai Adventure That Sparked My Wanderlust A few years ago, I traveled to Thailand, my first trip to Southeast Asia. The moment I arrived in Bangkok, I was captivated by the city’s energy—its bustling streets, vibrant street food stalls, and glittering temples. One unforgettable experience was attending the Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai. Thousands of lanterns illuminated the night sky, each carrying a wish or hope. It was a magical moment that reminded me of the beauty of shared human experiences. This journey left me with a profound love for exploration and inspired me to seek out other incredible destinations in the region. Vietnam is next on my list, promising a unique blend of adventure and cultural immersion. Vietnam: A Dream Destination Vietnam offers everything I seek in a destination. Its natural beauty, rich culture, and delicious cuisine make it a place I can’t wait to explore. 1. Breathtaking Landscapes From the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay to the terraced rice fields of Sapa, Vietnam’s landscapes are stunning. I imagine cruising through Ha Long Bay, marveling at its emerald waters and towering rock formations. In Sapa, I’d love to hike through the misty hills and learn about the lives of local ethnic communities. Vietnam’s coastline also intrigues me. I dream of strolling along the beaches of Da Nang or exploring Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets and riverside markets. 2. Rich Culture and History Vietnam’s history, shaped by resilience and transformation, fascinates me. Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels and War Remnants Museum would offer insight into the country’s journey through hardship and growth. Culturally, Vietnam’s blend of Chinese, French, and indigenous influences is captivating. Walking through Hanoi’s Old Quarter or exploring Hoi An’s preserved streets promises to be an enriching experience. 3. The People and Food Every traveler I’ve spoken to praises the warmth of Vietnam’s people. I look forward to connecting with locals, whether through market chats or shared meals at family-run eateries. Vietnamese cuisine is another major draw. I’m excited to try steaming bowls of pho, crispy banh xeo, and fresh spring rolls, along with the famous egg coffee in Hanoi.