‎‎‎Vietnam:‎‎A Taste of Something New

Embarking on my first journey outside my home country filled me with a blend of anticipation and
nervousness, particularly as I stepped onto the plane. Despite previous flying experience, the sensation was
both familiar and distant, adding to my pre-trip jitters. However, upon touchdown in Ho Chi Minh City, a wave
of relief washed over me, accompanied by warm smiles and genuine hospitality from the locals, including our
Airbnb host, whose kindness instantly made me feel at ease. Wandering around the streets of Ho Chi Minh
City, we decided to check out the market and go from store to store; this was a completely different experience
for me because I was able to connect with the people despite my little knowledge of the native language. The
combination of bewildered reactions, bad Vietnamese, and laughter from the locals made the event very
enjoyable. We then continued our journey back in the streets where we could appreciate the unique
architecture, characterized by narrow buildings resembling ant colonies, captivated my attention, especially
when illuminated at night, casting a magical glow. Structures and buildings were created in a similar style to
those in the Philippines, but one in particular stood out to me. My gaze was drawn to the pink-colored church,
which was adorable, but we were unable to see the interior because it was still under construction. We
managed to visit many sites like the presidential palace, the parks, and we even stopped by an old lady selling
mango with spicy salt. Venturing to the statue of Vung Tau, with its towering presence atop the mountains,
offered a challenging yet rewarding climb of over 800 steps, culminating in awe-inspiring panoramic views of
the city below.

Amidst these adventures, the culinary delights of Vietnam left an indelible impression, with each dish
offering a burst of flavors and textures, showcasing the country's rich culinary heritage. We tried multiple of
their dishes and cuisines throughout our trip. I could say that if you are a vegetarian then I would suggest
trying their food because they put greens on everything. It surprised me that they even have greens on deserts
too. But despite initial reservations about the unfamiliar ingredients and flavors, I found myself savoring
every bite, eager to explore more of the local cuisine. This would not be a review paper without mentioning
the country's drawbacks, and just like any other country, we will stumble into the negative aspects. A few
challenges could include a big weather issue. The weather was extremely humid and worse during the
summer, when it may become extremely
hot with little to no breeze in the sky. Another issue is that the water is unsafe to drink; it should not be served
in a glass and should only be consumed from a sealed water container. Speaking of water, I was surprised to
learn that it was common practice for Vietnamese people to add star anise to their water because it is said to
provide various health benefits to the body.

Reflecting on this experience, my journey through Vietnam has been nothing short of transformative.
Immersing myself in its culture, tasting its flavors, and connecting with its people has left an indelible mark on
my heart. As I eagerly anticipate the next adventure, I carry with me the cherished memories and invaluable
lessons learned from this unforgettable experience. Vietnam, you will always hold a special place in my
wanderlust-filled soul.

Jayla Doris Marie M. Morales

11 STEM Health - A1