Shilpa bhasin

Niranjan

Vietnam Through My Lens: A Journey of Photography, Culinary Delights, Music, and Cultural Discovery Vietnam is a country I’ve always dreamed of capturing through my lens - a place where each frame tells a story of resilience, harmony, and beauty. As a passionate photographer, I’m drawn to its vibrant cities and serene countryside, where bustling markets, ancient pagodas, and misty mountains offer endless opportunities to frame the essence of a culture rich with history and heart. My camera will capture the morning light over the emerald rice terraces of Sa Pa and the colorful street life of Hanoi, preserving moments that reveal the spirit of Vietnam. Being a lover of culinary arts, I’m excited to immerse myself in Vietnam’s celebrated flavors, from the delicate balance of herbs in a bowl of Pho to the crisp perfection of freshly made Bánh Mì. Each dish, prepared with intention and tradition, holds the power to share a piece of Vietnam’s soul. And then, there’s the music - a reflection of Vietnam’s heart and heritage. From the soulful sounds of traditional instruments like the đàn bầu to the rhythms that echo in its cities, music brings people together, bridging culture and time. This journey is not only about exploration; it’s a celebration of life, art, and connection, woven into the captivating fabric of Vietnam.

AKSHAY VENKILAT

I honestly don’t know how my love for travel started. Initially, it started as a hobby and later it become something a passion. As a vivid traveler with an insatiable passion for exploring the world, my soul yearns to immerse itself in the culture, history, and natural beauty that Vietnam has to offer. This trip is not just a journey; it is an opportunity to enrich my spirit, broaden my horizons, and embrace the myriad experiences that await. The allure of Vietnam lies in its harmonious blend of ancient traditions and modern vibrancy. I envision myself wandering through the quaint, historic streets of Hanoi, where time seems to stand still amidst the colonial architecture and bustling markets. The Old Quarter, with its labyrinthine alleys and lively vendors, calls out to me. Here, I hope to lose myself in the chaotic charm, sipping on a piping hot bowl of pho, and engaging in conversations with the locals, who embody the warmth and resilience of the Vietnamese spirit. One of my deepest aspirations for this trip is to delve into the country’s rich tapestry of culture and history. The ancient town of Hoi An, with its lantern-lit streets and centuries-old merchant houses, beckons me to unravel its stories. I long to witness the ethereal beauty of the My Son Sanctuary, a relic of the Champa civilization, and feel the echoes of the past reverberate through its crumbling ruins. Nature, too, plays a crucial role in my travel aspirations. The thought of cruising through the serene waters of Ha Long Bay, surrounded by limestone karsts and emerald isles, fills me with a sense of awe and tranquility. I yearn to trek through the terraced fields of Sapa, where the hillsides are painted in shades of green, and the air is crisp with the scent of earth and foliage. These encounters with nature will remind me of the delicate balance that sustains our planet and the importance of preserving its wonders for future generations. A trip to Vietnam is not merely about sightseeing; it is about immersing myself in the daily life and traditions of its people. I am eager to participate in a traditional cooking class, learning the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine, and savoring the flavors of fresh herbs and spices. The bustling markets of Saigon, with their vibrant colors and intoxicating aromas, promise to be a sensory feast that will leave a lasting impression on my culinary journey. In conclusion, my dream trip to Vietnam is more than just a travel itinerary; it is a heartfelt pursuit of knowledge, culture, and self-enlightenment. As I embark on this journey, I am excited to witness the magic of Vietnam’s landscapes, connect with its people, and return home with a treasure trove of memories and newfound wisdom. This adventure will undoubtedly be a transformative chapter in my life’s narrative, enriching my soul and kindling my passion for exploring the world’s wonders.

Ishu Kumar

A Journey to Love: How Travel and Photography Led Me to My Soulmate Traveling has always been more than just a hobby for me—it’s a way to breathe, to feel alive, and to discover hidden stories in every corner of the world. Alongside my love for exploring, my passion for photography has been my constant companion. Through the lens, I capture fleeting moments and preserve them as everlasting memories. Little did I know, it would be this very passion that would lead me to the love of my life. It was during a solo trip to Manali, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, that my life took an unexpected turn. The town was everything I had imagined—lush green valleys, snow-capped peaks, and a gentle chill in the air that made my heart sing with joy. Equipped with my trusty camera, I set out each day to explore the enchanting landscapes, eager to capture the magic of this heavenly place. On the third day, I decided to visit the Solang Valley, known for its adventure sports and breathtaking views. As I stood at the edge of a cliff, framing a shot of paragliders soaring through the azure sky, I heard a voice behind me. “That’s a stunning frame! But maybe you should tilt the camera slightly to the left for a more dramatic effect.” I turned around, slightly startled, to see a man with an easy smile and a twinkle in his eyes. He introduced himself as Arjun, a fellow traveler and photography enthusiast. Intrigued by his suggestion, I made the adjustment, and the result was a picture-perfect shot. What began as a simple photography tip turned into hours of conversation. We talked about our shared love for travel, photography, and the unexplainable thrill of wandering through unknown terrains. Arjun had a knack for finding beauty in the simplest of things—whether it was the play of sunlight on the river or the laughter of children running in the streets. Over the next few days, we explored Manali together. From walking through the apple orchards of Old Manali to marveling at the serenity of the Hadimba Temple, every moment felt special. Our cameras clicked incessantly, but for the first time, I found myself pausing to enjoy the moment, thanks to him. The most memorable day was our trek to Jogini Falls. As we reached the cascading waterfall, surrounded by dense pine forests, Arjun took out his camera and pointed it at me. “You’ve captured everything beautifully so far. Now it’s time to capture you in this story.” He clicked a candid shot of me laughing, the spray of the waterfall creating a dreamy backdrop. It was then I realized that this man had not only become a part of my journey but had also made my heart skip a beat. On our last evening in Manali, we sat by a bonfire, gazing at the star-studded sky. Arjun shared stories of his travels, and I shared mine. Somewhere between those stories, we realized we didn’t want this chapter to end. As the flames flickered and the night grew colder, Arjun held my hand and said, “We’ve captured some incredible memori