Arrival in Vietnam – A Warm Welcome
On my first sunny day in Vietnam, I was instantly captivated by the vibrant colors and the delicious aromas drifting through the streets. As I navigated the city, I came face to face with locals who weren’t just kind and helpful but also immensely creative, focused, and dedicated to their work.
Take, for example, the scene in this photo: despite the height, these people were decorating a bar for Christmas with unwavering focus and skill. Or the graceful woman working as a fruit vendor, selling love in the form of perfectly cut fruit. Then, there was the middle-aged man selling sweets by the roadside, his smile even sweeter than his treats.
Creative Expressions – Art Unleashed
As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow, cities like Saigon, Hoi An, and Hanoi transform. It’s in this magical light that creativity flourishes. Strolling through these streets at dusk, I saw locals pouring their passion into various art forms.
Some expressed themselves through pencil and paper, while others captured moments with digital cameras.Some even practiced traditional scroll writing, preserving ancient forms of art.
Vietnam’s cities never fail to surprise me.
Creativity here seems to bloom in response to constraints, rising against limits—just like in the images I’ve captured. It’s a reminder that even when resources are limited, imagination can be boundless.
The Reality of Crowded Streets
At first glance, parts of Vietnam may look like scenes from a fairytale—calm and picturesque. But reality soon set in. Just a few steps into the older, more local side of these cities, I encountered the true pace of life. The streets were filled with bustling crowds, the honking of vehicles, and the energy of people moving in every direction. It was busy, loud, and intense.
Just when I was about to categorize these cities as typical tourist traps, I found myself seeing them with fresh eyes. Among the noise and the crowds, I noticed hardworking, dedicated people who embody the spirit of Vietnam. Some were winding down their day with evening sports, while others continued working, packing up after a long day. Observing their faces—some smiling, some focused—I realised something profound.
Conclusion: People and Culture
What makes a city, a city? Is it the tourist attractions, the food, the monuments, or the scenic views? No—it’s the people and their culture.
It’s easy to experience a place as a tourist, but to see it through the eyes of a local is entirely different. One thing the people of Vietnam have taught me is to see places as they truly are, without assumptions.
Whether it’s the bustling crowds or the peaceful landscapes, the modern architecture or ancient heritage, there’s beauty in everything if you look closely.
Until next time, keep exploring.
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