Disha Sanghavi

I am a classical singer and deeply passionate about exploring the world through my music. I am particularly drawn to Vietnam, a country with a rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. In Vietnam, I would love to perform a classical Indian song, "Raga Hindolam," at the mesmerizing O Quy Ho Pass in Sapa. I am brimming with excitement to embark on my long-awaited culinary journey through Vietnam, a country teeming with rich and diverse flavors. I have meticulously planned this adventure since [time], and each location holds a special place in my heart. From savoring the iconic Phở at Phở Bat Dan in Hanoi to indulging in the spicy Bún bò Huế at Huế Restaurant in Ho Chi Minh, I cannot wait to experience the authentic tastes that Vietnam has to offer. With every bite, I will create lasting memories in this beautiful and culinary-rich destination. As a passionate Instagram influencer, I am thrilled to capture the captivating beauty of Vietnam and bring enchanting experiences to life at VinWonders Phu Quoc, where I will portray Disney princesses. For my followers, I will create unforgettable memories by exploring the Vietnam Hand Bridge in Da Lat, which serves as an impressive backdrop for a unique photoshoot. By sharing these magical moments through my lens, I will enable my audience to immerse themselves in the enchanting beauty of Vietnam. Nature's beauty in Vietnam is truly captivating, and I am eager to explore Ha Long Bay. I am drawn to its mesmerizing landscapes and would love to experience a luxurious cruise that allows me to fully appreciate its breathtaking beauty. I am excited for the chance to explore this incredible destination.

Raghu Vamsi Kadiri

As the Founder of the Marpu Foundation, my dream of visiting Vietnam goes beyond mere exploration; it’s a journey rooted in my passion for environmental sustainability, cultural exchange, and community empowerment. Vietnam’s rich history, resilient people, and breathtaking landscapes have long captivated me. From the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay to the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City, I see Vietnam as a country that blends tradition with modernity, much like the communities we work with in India. My work at Marpu Foundation focuses on promoting sustainable development, and I am particularly inspired by Vietnam’s efforts in areas like renewable energy, water conservation, and education. This trip will offer me valuable insights into how Vietnam has made such impressive progress, and I aim to bring these learnings back to improve the lives of the underprivileged communities Marpu Foundation serves. Vietnam’s resilience in overcoming the devastation of war, rebuilding itself into a thriving nation, is a powerful example that I hope to learn from and apply to our efforts in helping communities rise above their challenges in India. I believe that cultural exchange is key to personal growth, and by immersing myself in Vietnamese culture, I will gain a deeper understanding of how to foster inclusivity and adaptability values that are crucial for our work. Visiting places like the National Defense Academy and learning from Vietnam’s development model will not only enrich me personally but also equip me with practical knowledge to guide new projects in India. For instance, I am eager to explore Vietnam’s water conservation techniques and apply them to our ongoing borewell and water plant initiatives in rural India. Additionally, witnessing the innovative use of solar energy in Vietnam’s villages can inspire us to expand our solar lamp-making projects. This trip is not just about learning; it’s about creating a lasting social impact. By fostering cross-cultural collaborations between India and Vietnam, I hope to build partnerships that will lead to joint projects in education, sustainability, and community development. My journey to Vietnam will also serve as a story of inspiration for the youth we work with, showing them that global citizenship is within reach and that dreams can lead to tangible change. In selecting me for the VietJet Love Connection – Dreams Take Flight program, VietJet will not only fulfill a personal dream but also contribute to the long-term development of underprivileged communities in India. This journey will be a testament to how global experiences can drive local impact, and I am committed to bringing back insights that will empower the communities Marpu Foundation serves. This is a dream with purpose a chance to connect, learn, and inspire change.

Hardeep Singh

I WOULD SAY, MY VIETNAM! Echoes of Vietnam: A Military Veteran's Quest By Colonel Hardeep Singh Ghuman, Indian Army As someone who has dedicated my life to the service of my country, I have always been drawn to places that embody resilience and beauty. The Socialist Republic of Vietnam, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, has long been a destination I have yearned to explore. However, financial constraints have consistently stood in the way of my dream and desire to visit Vietnam. This opportunity to visit Vietnam is not just a chance to satisfy my wanderlust, but also a deeply personal journey into a land that has witnessed the scars of war and yet risen to become a symbol of peace and prosperity. As someone who has spent 21 years in the Military, I also have a deep interest in Vietnam's war history. The Vietnam War, with its profound impact on both Vietnam and the world, is something I have studied extensively. To visit the very places where history was made would be a poignant experience for me. For example, the Long Bien Bridge in Hanoi, once bombed by US forces and later rebuilt by the Vietnamese, is a symbol of strength and perseverance. My fascination with Vietnam's war history also extends into my work as a writer. I am a published author, and much of my writing explores the lives of soldiers and the complex emotions they endure. One of my stories, "From the Shadows," is set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War. Published on Amazon KDP in 2017 (https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Hardeep-Singh-Ghuman-ebook/dp/B073YDTZ62), it is a gripping tale of two war veterans, Vadim Yulian (erstwhile USSR) and After Martial (USA), whose lives intertwine in unexpected ways. If you could grant just one favour of choosing a Military Veteran from India to visit Vietnam, I sincerely hope it will be me. In conclusion, this opportunity to visit Vietnam is more than just a holiday for me; it is a chance to connect with a land that has long intrigued me, to explore its natural beauty, immerse myself in its culture, savour its cuisine, and reflect on its history. I sincerely hope that my passion for this incredible destination shines through in this story and that I am fortunate enough to be selected for this unforgettable experience. Kính gửi Quý Ông/Bà, xin vui lòng nhận sự biết ơn chân thành của tôi vì đã dành thời gian đọc câu chuyện của tôi.

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

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.