After over 30 hours of traveling, a change in time zones, and several unfortunate speed bumps at the airport, we have finally arrived in Vietnam, and what an extraordinary day it has been! The moment I set foot in Ho Chi Minh City, I was blown away by the vibrant energy the city brought. From the busy streets enriched with hundreds of motorbikes to the urban landscape brought along the skyline, I was in awe of the atmosphere. Within my first day the scent of local markets and street vendors filled the streets, and the friendly smiles of locals I was greeted with, immediately proved this would be an adventure for the books.

My interactions with locals, employees, and university students painted the picture of the deep-rooted culture of respect and tradition in Vietnamese society. I was astounded by the glamorous greeting we were surprised by the University of Economics and Finance, proving a profound sense of hospitality ingrained in the Vietnamese culture. Ultimately demonstrating the importance of first impressions and fostering connections with new guests in their community.

The infrastructure in Ho Chi Minh City, particularly in District 1, left a lasting impression on me. The contrast in the development of the architecture was truly unique. Historical landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral were an example of keeping long-lasting landmarks in place showing the city’s emphasis on tradition. On the other hand, we witnessed more modern structures like the Bitexco Financial Tower which showcased the city’s development, especially in the working class. Ho Chi Minh’s infrastructure signals Vietnam’s commitment to modernization and competitiveness on the global development stage.