Ushma Kumawat

Abhishek Joy Minz

I made my first International trip to the Maldives this year in the month of October. Why Maldives? Because my friend on a whim suggested that we go to the Maldives. And oh boy! I would never regret that decision. From the moment we began checkin at Mumbai to having a layover in Sri Lanka, everything was like a dream. Felt like I was living a fairytale. As we finally descended into Maldives, my excitement knew no bounds. I began to click photos of almost everything around me - the can that dropped us to the hotel, the hotel entrance, the stairs, the room door, the room; just everything I could click. I hadn't even places my bags in the room when I rushed out to the beach. It was night but who cared? I was living my dream! The next morning I woke up early to walk around the city of Hulhumale and caught the sun peeking through the horizon. Did a whole walking tour of the area by myself. I even recorded it in a gps tracking app just for the record. The following day was a trip to Maafushi, one of the popular local islands of Maldives. Immediately booked a full day tour that included snorkeling, something I had longed to do. And the experience was absolutely fantastic! So much so that I booked another day tour the next day. Stayed a total of 9 days in the Maldives. Stayed local, ate local and shopped local. What an amazing experience it was. Will definitely be making another tour there. While returning, my friend suggested that I visit Bali. And what did I do? I immediately booked a flight to Bali that night - one that would depart from Mumbai the same day that I arrived there. After landing in Mumbai, took a cab home, rested for a few hours and drove straight back to Mumbai for my Bali trip. I was supposed to have a layover in Vietnam but chose Malaysia instead. Had few of my best moments in Bali. Learnt a few words, mingled with the locals, ate the local food and walked a lot to explore the areas. Did a few days tours too and visited Ubud, Nusa Penida and a few beaches. Flew back through Singapore - for this I regret. I should have booked a flight through Vietnam and done a layover there. And therefore because I missed my opportunity then, I don't want to miss it now. I want to get to Vietnam and go explore the country and soak in everything that the country has to offer. And this can be possible with Vietjet Air's help. Hoping for many more trips to come.

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.

Daksh Sharma

Food and travel have always been my greatest passions, and Vietnam has become a significant source of inspiration for me. Beyond its breathtaking landscapes and rich culture, Vietnam’s culinary world has captured my imagination. From the iconic pho and banh mi to the legendary egg coffee, Vietnam feels like a paradise waiting to be explored. I dream of visiting this vibrant country to immerse myself in its food scene—walking through bustling street markets, tasting bold flavors, and learning about the stories behind every dish. My love for food and travel has been my greatest teacher. In Thailand, I pushed boundaries by trying alligator meat, a unique and unexpectedly delightful experience. I also indulged in their famous mango sticky rice and prawn noodles, which introduced me to a balance of flavors that was both comforting and exciting. In Dubai, I tasted their luxurious gold tea, a drink so exquisite it felt like sipping history and innovation in one cup. These moments shaped my journey, making me more curious about the world and its culinary treasures. Vietnam, with its legendary coffee culture, is my next dream destination. Their famous egg coffee, a creamy concoction of whisked egg yolks and strong coffee, feels like a perfect fusion of richness and simplicity. I’m equally excited to try their ca phe sua da, an iced coffee with condensed milk that I imagine enjoying while watching life unfold in the streets of Hanoi. But Vietnam is not just about its flavors; it’s about experiences that leave a lasting impact. From cruising the emerald waters of Halong Bay to walking through the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, every part of Vietnam seems magical. The Golden Bridge in Da Nang, with its giant stone hands holding a shimmering walkway, feels like a symbol of the country’s ability to blend tradition with modernity. I recently visited Lansdowne, a quiet hill station in India, where I spent serene evenings by a bonfire, surrounded by nature’s beauty. That experience reminded me how much I love exploring places that offer both calm and adventure. Vietnam, with its mix of vibrant cities, peaceful landscapes, and a rich culinary heritage, feels like the perfect next chapter in my story. It’s not just a destination—it’s an inspiration, waiting to be discovered one sip, bite, and step at a time.