Gallery of Dreams

Rutu Kamlesh Khirani

In 2022, arriving in Hanoi felt like stepping into a world rich with history and architecture that tells its own stories. As an interior designer captivated by cultural depth, I was instantly drawn to Hanoi’s blend of French colonial facades, ancient pagodas, and buzzing street life. The Old Quarter, with its narrow, history-laden streets, seemed to freeze time, with each lane showcasing traditional houses with tiled roofs, wooden balconies, and delicate carvings—testaments to Vietnam’s enduring craftsmanship. The city’s spiritual side was equally compelling. At the Temple of Literature, honoring Confucius, I felt an almost meditative connection to wisdom from the past. Hoan Kiem Lake, alive each morning with locals practicing Tai Chi, captured Vietnam’s seamless balance between tradition and modernity. And the food—fragrant, rich, and brimming with flavor—told stories of heritage with every bite. For a birdwatcher who’s spotted over 500 species in India, Vietnam is a treasure trove. The diversity of its habitats offers endless possibilities, and I can’t wait to discover more. On my next visit, I’m eager to dive into the dynamic world around Ho Chi Minh City. The city’s energy is palpable, from the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica to the Saigon Central Post Office, historical gems that highlight a fascinating colonial past. In Ben Thanh Market, I’ll immerse myself in the flavors and craftsmanship of Vietnam. Beyond the city, the Mekong Delta beckons. Its rivers, floating markets, and lush landscapes are a dream for someone who thrives on culture and nature. And at the Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve—the “Green Lung” of Ho Chi Minh City—I hope to spot wading birds, colorful kingfishers, and maybe even the rare Painted Stork. This journey promises an unforgettable blend of the city’s vibrant pulse and the quiet majesty of Vietnam’s landscapes, each piece amplifying my admiration for this beautiful country. Vietnam, once again, will be a new adventure every day, a perfect tapestry of culture, architecture, and nature.

Mala Amrish Jalundhwala

Being a working professional, I believe a lot in having a work life balance and travelling to a new country every year. I love to explore beautiful places in the world to understand different cultures, try new cuisines, meet interesting people, learn new languages and explore beautiful landscapes. Travelling makes me feel complete as i get to learn so much from other cultures and take away beautiful memories with me back home. I have learned ten new languages and also completed a course in Tourism and hospitality management. My recent fascination for South East Asia has made me explore India, Bhutan, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Nepal recently and I am really looking forward to covering Vietnam and China as well. Travelling is my hobby profession because recently i have started my Instagram page as a travel influencer and have received an amazing response within the first year itself. I will always continue to travel throughout my life as these memories are the ones that i will carry with myself and remember throughout. I believe that our life is like a waterfall, we have to keep moving, never stop and be open to changes and embrace diversity. I would really be the happiest one on this planet if I win this.

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.

Girish Bisht

I had travelled to Nepal in September 2024 . I had visited 2 cities of Kathmandu and Pokhra. Before my visit ,being an Indian , I had felt that Nepal as a neighboring country will have almost same culture. But to my surprise it has been a different story altogether. The attire, food, worship rituals has cleared much of my doubts. On our first day we had been to Chandragiri mountains in cable trolley in the midst of clouds and found it mesmerizing. Later we had visited Kathmandu Darbar square which is a mix of old and new architecture because many of the monument has been destroyed in 2015 Earthquake. We also went to the museum and also had a glimpse of Living Goddess Royal Kumari which is a prepubescent girl worshipped as the incarnation of goddess Taleju Bhawani. We also visited Swoyambhu Mahachaitya, an ancient religious Buddhist Stupa complex. In the evening while watching the famous Pashupatinath Hindu Temple I was wondering the various cultures the city of Kathmandu is mixed with. In the later part of our travel we visited the most beautiful and well organized city of Pokhra. Our resort was on the banks of famous Fewa Lake. While having an evening walk at the walkway on Fewa lake we wonder how peaceful is the nature of people of Nepal as they were enjoying with their friends an family with all smiling and greeting to the foreigners without any greed. Next day we went to the Pumdikot Mahadev temple of Lord Shiva which is on a hilltop. Situated on 1500 mtr above sea level this place has an amazing viewpoint of Pokhra city and Fewa lake. Pumdikot has the second tallest statue of Shiva in Nepal. The statue itself is 51 feet tall. It sits on a white stupa that adds 57 feet in height, making the entire structure 108 feet high. . The statue premises also has 108 Shiva lingas that encircle the statue On our way back we went to World Peace Pagoda and had spent peaceful time there.Itis a Buddhist monument on Anadu Hill. Later we saw Devis Waterfall whose water forms a tunnel after reaching the bottom.The water forms a tunnel after reaching the bottom. This tunnel is approximately 500 feet (150 m) long and runs 100 feet (30 m) below ground level. On 31 July 1961, a Swiss male-female couple went swimming but the woman drowned in a pit because of the overflow. Her body was recovered three days later in river Phusre with great effort. Her father wished to name it "David's Fall" after her daughter's name but changed to Devi's Fall. Its Nepali name is Patale Chango, which literal meaning is Paatal Ko Chango means "Underworld's Waterfall". Near to it we visited Gupetshwer Mahadev Cave which is an undergound Shiva temple. We had a peaceful and memorable trip to Nepal and I made a promise to visit next time with my family and show them the beauty and culture of this beautiful country.

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.

Priya Jain

Like many of you my passion is to travel, to explore the world. Traveling has not only been something that I do, but it has been something that has become a part of me. I have this passion to travel. I haven't been across the globe or to every continent, but I want to travel the world and it's only the beginning. When you keep travelling, apart from enjoying the beauty of the place, you get to meet new people, know their culture and traditions, and improve your knowledge, and I always want to explore Vietnam in many ways like vietnam has a unique culture and diverse landscapes, it has many historical sites, has many natural wonders, it's cuisine is known for its flavor rather than spice. Vietnam has become the must see destination and for all those reasons this place is in my bucket list.

Mala Amrish Jalundhwala

I have always loved travelling since I was a child. I have been to almost twelve countries and find so much solace and peace every time I travel. It makes me feel like a free bird who flies high into the sky , explores beautiful creations of God and capture beautiful memories. Specially, I am fascinated with South East Asia because the food, cultural harmony, naturally beautiful landscapes, waterfalls, forests, flora and fauna is just so beautiful and captivating. Every year, I plan to visit atleast two new countries and meet amazing new people. Recently, i started sharing my photos on Instagram and Facebook and received amazing response from my audience. This made me pursue a short term course in travel and tourism management as well. Having covered most countries in South East Asia, Vietnam has been on my top list as recently while returning from my trip to Bali, Indonesia, I had the privilege of taking a flight back in VietJet and the experience was so smooth and amazing. I had made up a plan that day that i would love to visit Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, and many more places in Vietnam to explore beautiful landscapes, waterfalls, islands, city tours, zoos, etc. It would really mean the world to me if I win this as the beauty of Vietnam really enchanted me and i cannot wait to visit this paradise and fulfill my dream of visiting Vietnam. I have also heard a lot about the amazing hospitality of people, food, the Buddhist culture, etc. Everyone should travel as they explore new horizons, think out of the box, meet new people, learn new languages, adore foreign culture, music, etc.

Narendra Gemawat

I visited Vietnam Hanoi for my medical conference,during my visit to LAKE ,I met a School Girl who guided through culture of Vietnam ,it's socio-Family traditions .She also advise us to visit Vietnamese New year celebration during early months of year. Since then I was constant in touch with LINH ,her name. And my dream came true when in 2024 early months ,Once again had opputunity to visit Hanoi during their New year Full of Cultural rich celebration.I met LINH ,now a beautiful girl and their family and her fiancee during celebration at her home . I enjoyed their traditional guest welcoming Vietnamese tradition and food ,I liked KHIMCHI the most.They all were in traditional attire .I was told about the Vietnamese history ,culture traditions and tough time during a long path of war .But leaving all suffering in Backyard looking forward of peace , togetherness and enjoying their rich culture for Brotherhood with all nations and Humanity in general.I wonder how meeting a School girl ,helped me enjoy Vietnamese culture with pride simplicity and glory. I salute Vietnam

Kabir Jaiswal

Kabir was born into a struggling family in a small town, where he grew up as the eldest of three siblings. Despite their financial hardships, Kabir displayed a deep love for learning from a young age. His father worked long hours at a factory, and his mother contributed by stitching clothes at home. Even with both parents working, the family could barely afford necessities, let alone Kabir’s education. But Kabir was determined to succeed. He studied late into the night by candlelight, skipped meals to save money, and took on odd jobs to contribute to his family’s income. As he entered high school, Kabir's challenges intensified. His father’s health declined, increasing the family’s expenses, and Kabir had to work even harder to support them while studying. Often exhausted and malnourished, he continued to excel in school, motivated by a vision of a life beyond poverty. Teachers noticed his dedication and encouraged him to apply for scholarships, which helped him secure a place in college. There, Kabir faced mounting tuition fees, forcing him to take up three part-time jobs while balancing his studies. The physical and emotional toll was heavy, but he endured, constantly driven by the desire to help his family and uplift others. Over time, his commitment attracted more students, some walking miles to attend his classes. Kabir didn’t just teach subjects; he shared his story, instilling values of resilience and perseverance. Kabir’s work gradually expanded as he partnered with NGOs and other organizations, gaining additional resources to improve his school’s infrastructure and curriculum. He hired teachers, offered scholarships, and introduced programs that encouraged creativity and critical thinking. Through his journey from hardship to impact, Kabir became a beacon of hope in his community. His story inspired others to value education and to dream of a brighter future. For Kabir, the greatest reward was not in recognition, but in seeing his students, who once doubted they could pursue an education, grow into confident individuals with the power to change their own lives. Kabir’s school, born out of struggle and compassion, became a cornerstone for his town, showing that with determination and empathy, even the most challengi