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.

Ashish Gautam

Taking a two-year break from my advertising job to travel the world began with a moment of clarity during a late-night brainstorming session. Inspired by a colleague's tales of adventure, I questioned the path I was on and realized it was time to pause and explore. After months of meticulous planning, saving, and letting go of material attachments, I crafted a vision for a journey spanning Vietnam, Europe, South America, and Africa. Vietnam was my first destination. From navigating Hanoi’s bustling streets and savoring egg coffee by Hoan Kiem Lake to volunteering at an eco-farm in Da Lat, I discovered joy in spontaneity and simplicity. The lantern-lit charm of Hoi An and the warmth of locals deepened my connection to this vibrant culture. Each moment reminded me that travel wasn’t just about seeing places but about immersing myself in them. Europe offered history and artistry. I indulged in Rome’s cobblestone streets, marveled at the Sistine Chapel, and practiced French in Parisian cafés. But it was Spain’s festivals and the communal spirit of the Camino de Santiago that stole my heart, reminding me why I loved storytelling—it was about connection and shared experiences. South America presented breathtaking challenges and rewards. Hiking to Machu Picchu tested my endurance but offered unparalleled views. Carnival in Rio immersed me in Brazil’s rhythm and colors, while a month under Patagonia’s starlit skies fostered tranquility and wonder. Nature’s grandeur provided clarity and a new appreciation for life. Africa was my final stop, where safaris in Kenya and cultural explorations in South Africa captivated me. However, teaching English at a community center in Tanzania proved transformative, showing me the fulfillment of giving back. Returning home after two years, I found that the journey had profoundly reshaped me. I reentered advertising with fresh creativity and a commitment to balance. My travels taught me to slow down, value meaningful connections, and live a story worth telling. The open road had become a part of me, a source of inspiration I would carry forever.

Aditya Nigam

The world was slowly emerging from the cocoon of the first COVID-19 wave. Manali, once a bustling hill station, was now a quieter, almost ethereal place. The heavy silence was occasionally broken by the laughter of few visitors who, like you, had ventured out to find a sense of normalcy amidst the breathtaking landscapes. You had embarked on a motorcycle trip from Delhi, seeking solace in the solitude of the mountains. The plan was simple: a three-day adventure to escape the confines of city life and rediscover a bit of freedom. Little did you know that this trip would evolve into a transformative journey of the heart. Manali welcomed you with open arms, its crisp air and scenic beauty offering a balm to your weary soul. You were lost in the wonder of the mountains when fate intervened. Priya, a spirited young woman with a keen sense for both adventure and tranquility, was on a workcation. She had chosen Manali as her temporary haven, aiming to blend her professional life with a much-needed escape. The first time you saw Priya was on a sunlit morning, as she strolled along the River Beas, her laughter mingling with the soft murmur of the water. There was an immediate connection, a sense that your paths were destined to intertwine. What began as a brief encounter soon became an invitation to explore Manali together. The once fleeting three-day trip stretched into two months of shared experiences, laughter, and deep conversations. Days turned into weeks as you both navigated the meandering trails, discovered hidden cafes, and soaked in the charm of Manali. It was during these moments that you realized how seamlessly your lives were syncing. The mountains, once a backdrop, became a witness to the blossoming of a beautiful relationship. --- With Manali as the foundation of your relationship, you both were eager to continue exploring the world together. Your journeys became a series of adventures, each destination adding a new chapter to your story. Amritsar, From the sacred to the vibrant, your travels took you to Pushkar, where the colors of the desert seemed to echo the colors of your shared experiences. The annual Pushkar Fair, with its lively energy and cultural richness, was a celebration of both the festival and the newfound joy in your lives.The rugged terrains of **Lahaul-Spiti,Kashmir, with its enchanting beauty, was another gem in your journey.Ladakh, with its high-altitude beauty and rugged landscapes, was a grand adventure.International adventures beckoned next. Thailand offered a vibrant contrast to the mountainous regions you had explored. With every new destination, you were not just discovering new places but also uncovering more about each other. Your mutual love for exploration became a metaphor for your relationship—an endless journey of discovery and growth. And we decided to get married on 4th of may 2022 with lot many explorations in future and we are still exploring places together

Chandvi Sharma

As an Indian Culinary Chef, Young Chef Mentor IFBA and a Guest Speaker having spoken on many Prestigious Platforms across India and international I want to embark on a journey of my lifetime to Experience Vietnam Authentic Food and Culture.I want to explore how innovation , nutrition and culinary practices can drive food sustainability .When talking about Vietnamese Food, i am also talking about the most effective and special way to understand the country's lifelong culture. Vietnamese cuisine well represents its people and their way of life which is lively and tasty. The secret of each dish lies in the talented use of herbs and spices and the great combination local ingredients that I can discover in a cooking class with a local chefs.I wish to visit this beautiful country to find out its art of cooking and learn to make some delicious dishes through which As a culinary Chef I am planning to start including the Vietnamese cuisine in my Recipes and Inspire and encourage people to go and try the delicious And Authentic Vietnamese Food .I want to take a Street Food tour of Hanoi. Vietnam’s culinary landscape is as diverse and vibrant as its geography. From the mountainous north to the fertile delta of the south, each region offers unique flavors that contribute to the rich tapestry of Vietnamese cuisine. Vietnamese food makes extensive use of fresh herbs, spices, and aromatics.I believe it's a great opportunity for cultural Exchange where I can teach Vietnam people Some of my Indian delicacies and also learn a lot of their Authentic delicacies which I can include in my own Culinary Journey. I have won many Awards and accolades, recognitions on many Indian Platforms for my culinary skills .I have also worked as Young Chef Instructor for many 5 star hotels in India .I wish to include Vietnamese Cuisine in my culinary Journey and Encourage people to try this amazing Cuisine which is so delicious and yummy.I want to promote Vietnamese Cuisine in my blogs and my Panel meets across different countries..I am also planning to start my own Restaurant in Mumbai where i want to include Vietnamese Cuisine in my Menu. .Vietnam is famous for so many things, from ancient towns, UNESCO heritage sites, and serene beaches to scrumptious Pho and a different kinds of coffee.I am really passionate to learn so much about Vietnam Culture and Authentic Food delicacies it's truly my long term desire to sit in a local restaurant in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, have conversations with the locals, share Indian culture with them, and understand their culture and learn Authentic Vietnamese Food from them ..I want to make blogs to promote Vietnamese Cuisine well in India so that people get to know more about Vietnam Culture and Cuisine wherein I can encourage more and more people to visit Vietnam and tell them about the Authenticity of Vietnam Culture with their Authentic Culinary.This amazing Opportunity can give me wings to do cultural Exchange with Vietnam .

Mithun Divakaran

I first visited Vietnam in 2019, and yes, I flew VietJet :) Back then, I chose to only focus on Ho Chi Minh City and some tourist spots in the south because I wanted to explore north of Vietnam only after I got a drone (which I now possess). I did my research and truly enjoyed my visit to Vietnam back in 2019. I was impressed by what I witnessed and even back then, I could easily tell Vietnam is a nation poised for immense growth. From the gleaming skyscrapers of Ho Chi Minh City's city center to developments coming up in the outer districts, I could see development everywhere. My visit to Ho Chi Minh City, a.k.a Saigon was also to learn about the past. Yes, Vietnam became globally infamous because of the decade-long war and atrocities committed by the United States. For that, a visit to the War Remnants Museum is a must to “never forget” that war. That said, once you get out of Saigon, you encounter many remnants of cultures that influenced Vietnam over centuries. From Chinese pagodas to learning about Hindu empires that once ruled many part of Vietnam. Of the few remaining Cham (Champa) temples left in Vietnam, I visited the Po Shanu Cham temple while I was in Mui Ne — another must-visit destination — especially for its sand dunes. It also made me want to read up on other Cham temples sites. If I were to return to Vietnam, I would love to explore Mỹ Sơn and UNESCO World Heritage sites there. If I were to visit Nha Trang, I would certainly visit the Po Nagar Cham Towers. Sure, the beaches of Nha Trang are stunning but as a Hindu, I’m always curious to learn more about the influence India and Hinduism had across Asia centuries ago. If I were to return to Vietnam, the north is surely on my to-do list. When it comes to natural beauty, now that I have a drone, I would love to capture the stunning limestone rocks of Ha Long Bay. Aerial views of Ning Minh and the river stream are already envisioned in my head. So are the rice terraces of Sapa valley and fields of Mai Chau. I would love to explore some Hmong villages too. Yes, I would explore Hanoi too but that’s mostly for all things that make a capital city great. The street food, the nightlife, the new skyscrapers — which I’m sure all good — but I’m coming to explore Vietnam for its natural beauty and culture. I can’t wait for an opportunity to capture Vietnam’s beauty on camera and showcase it on my Instagram, blog, and YouTube channel. And nothing like flying a Vietnamese airline to get to Vietnam!

IFTEKHAR AHMAD

Photography has always been more than a hobby for me—it's a way of seeing the world through a unique lens, capturing fleeting moments and preserving them for eternity. My passion for photography began during a childhood road trip when I was captivated by the vast landscapes we passed. With a simple camera in hand, I started capturing the beauty of nature, the majesty of mountains, and the tranquility of rivers. What began as a few snapshots soon evolved into a full-blown passion for documenting the world around me. As I grew older, my interest expanded beyond just landscapes. I started exploring different places, seeking out the architectural marvels that define a city's identity. The intricate details of ancient temples, the grandeur of modern skyscrapers, and the rustic charm of rural homes—all became subjects for my lens. Each structure tells a story, and I found joy in uncovering and sharing these stories through my photographs. Culture, too, became an integral part of my photographic journey. Traveling to different regions allowed me to experience diverse traditions, vibrant festivals, and everyday moments that define a community's way of life. Through my camera, I aim to capture the essence of these cultures, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of human experience. Participating in the VietJet contest is an exciting opportunity for me to share my love for photography with a wider audience. My work is a testament to the beauty of our world, from the serene landscapes to the bustling cityscapes, and the rich cultural heritage that connects us all. Through my photos, I hope to inspire others to explore, appreciate, and preserve the world around them.