Shantanu Garg

VIDUSHI SINGH

I’ve always been an observer—quietly soaking in the world around me rather than diving headfirst into its chaos. As an architect and urban designer, I’ve built my life around creating spaces for others to live, grow, and connect. Yet, in the process, I’ve often wondered: Where do I find my space? The one where I can truly breathe, step away from expectations, and rediscover the person I’ve always been beneath the layers of responsibilities and routines? I’m an introvert, always have been. I find comfort in solitude, in the soft silence of an early morning or the gentle glow of a sunset filtering through my window. While the world rushes to make noise and claim attention, I’ve always preferred to sit back and observe, to take in the details others often miss. Being an introvert has taught me to appreciate the beauty in the little things, to listen deeply, and to cherish meaningful connections. But as the years pass, life can feel isolating. Friendships have dwindled to mere texts, and the colorful stories of shared moments now sit quietly in the background. There was a time when life felt full of energy—when friendships overflowed with laughter, late-night talks, and shared adventures. But as adulthood took over, work, distance, and responsibilities crept in, and those bonds began to fray. Now, our interactions are limited to occasional messages—brief exchanges that can never quite capture the depth we once shared. The absence of those vibrant connections has left an ache, a longing for the days when life felt more alive. As I stand on the edge of this new chapter, I feel a mix of apprehension and excitement. The idea of venturing into unfamiliar territory still scares me, but it fills me with hope. I picture myself walking through lively streets, soaking in the sights and sounds of a world I’ve never known, and finding pieces of myself in the process. This journey isn’t just about exploring a destination; it’s about exploring myself—embracing the parts of me that have been waiting patiently for their moment to shine. I know this journey won’t transform me into someone I’m not. I’ll always be an introvert, but this journey has the power to help me grow, pushing me gently into a space where I can embrace both my quiet nature and my desire for connection. So here I am, ready to take a leap of faith—ready to step out of my comfort zone and into a world of new experiences, new friends, and new stories. I’m ready to believe that even as an introvert, I can find my place in a bustling world, navigating the unfamiliar with grace and curiosity. And most of all, I’m ready to discover that sometimes, the best journeys are the ones that lead us back to ourselves. Here’s to hoping this quiet dreamer finds her wings—and maybe, along the way, a few hearts to call friends.

Chandra Kant Jaisansaria

Ours is a love marriage. We share similar interests, i.e., writing good stories, reading books, and traveling the world together. While we strive hard to earn as much as required to nurture our relationship as husband and wife, we also dream of exploring the world together. Married in January 2020, just before COVID hit, we waited two long years to visit our dream destination, Bali. Yes, it was our honeymoon, and guess what? We traveled to Bali with VietJet. It was in 2022 that our Bali trip taught us we could be future travel content creators and influencers. We decided to shoot some beautiful videos and pictures, make some Instagram Reels, and upload them. Whoa... Some of them went viral and got more than 14,000 views. We received 300+ inquiries about our Bali trip. People went mad looking at our self-planned itinerary, and they happily traveled to Bali using our ideas. But now comes the twist: we are now a family of three in 2023, which meant a two-year-long break from future trips. Now that we are ready to fly again, we need some support from VietJet, and we promise we will try to bring more fame to Vietnam by sharing its attractions, culture, and beauty through our lens. Let us, Indians, love you a little more by visiting you. Our Instagram handles are @ckbansal23 and @daminiaggarwal6

himanshi sukhyani

Exploring the culture of Vietnam is a journey steeped in history, resilience, and vibrant traditions. Each city—Da Nang, Hanoi, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)—offers a unique tapestry of experiences that resonate deeply with me. Starting with Hanoi, the capital, its blend of old-world charm and modernity captivates the spirit. Wandering through the narrow streets of the Old Quarter, I feel a pulse of life infused with history. The sound of motorbikes zipping past, the aroma of street food wafting through the air, and the sight of ancient temples create a sensory overload that ignites my curiosity. The rich heritage of Hanoi is palpable, from the serene beauty of Hoan Kiem Lake to the solemnity of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Each moment spent here reveals a story, and I yearn to connect with the people, to hear their tales of resilience and hope amid the changing tides of history. Moving south to Hoi An, the ancient town enchants with its preserved architecture and lantern-lit nights. Here, the blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences creates a cultural mosaic that speaks of harmony and coexistence. Walking along the riverside, I’m drawn to the artisans crafting intricate lanterns and textiles. The essence of Hoi An lies in its sense of community, where local traditions flourish alongside contemporary artistry. The culinary scene, with its emphasis on fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, beckons me to learn more about the significance of food in Vietnamese culture—how it connects families, generations, and communities. In Da Nang, the coastal city known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, I am intrigued by the juxtaposition of natural beauty and urban life. The Golden Bridge, with its surreal design held aloft by giant stone hands, symbolizes the bridging of tradition and innovation. Da Nang represents the forward-looking spirit of Vietnam, where the past is honored while embracing the future. I feel a strong pull to explore its dynamic art scene and the bustling markets that reflect the city's diverse influences, eager to understand how this evolution shapes the identity of its people. Lastly, Ho Chi Minh City—a bustling metropolis where history and modernity collide. The historical significance of sites like the War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels offers a profound insight into Vietnam's tumultuous past. The energy of the city is contagious; the street markets, cafes, and nightlife create an atmosphere of relentless vitality. Here, I want to engage with the vibrant youth culture that is reshaping Vietnam's narrative, exploring how tradition and modernity coexist in their daily lives. The emotional journey through Vietnam's culture is not just about observing; it’s about connecting with the heart of its people. This exploration promises to be a profound experience, deepening my appreciation for the diverse cultural heritage that Vietnam embodies.