Dressed in traditional Vietnamese ao dai and exploring the streets of Hanoi by motorbike, two exchange students from France at the University of Science and Technology of Hanoi (USTH), Clara and Mika, had unforgettable experiences in Hanoi during the joyful atmosphere of Tet Nguyen Dan, Vietnamese Lunar New Year.
Clara and Mika, two students from the French Air and Space Force Academy (France), are currently researching Climate change in South East Asia at the University of Science and Technology of Hanoi (USTH). Although they have not been in Vietnam for long, Clara and Mika have immediately fallen in love with the beautiful S-shaped country.
Clara and Mika temporarily came to Vietnam for studying and researching right at the time of the Lunar New Year. The two French exchange students were amazed and delighted by the bustling and beautifully decorated streets: “Hanoi during the Tet holiday looks so wonderful. The scenery and people are more joyful and vibrant.” Clara enthusiastically shared about her experience: “Wearing the ao dai and exploring the streets of Hanoi on a motorbike during Tet brings me so many feelings. I feel like I’ve become a part of Hanoi, immersing myself in the local culture.”
The two French students were filled with one surprise after another as they had the opportunity to explore a display that recreated traditional Vietnamese architecture and context. Clara and Mika expressed their curiosity and excitement about the rituals, worshipping, and lifetime of Vietnamese from ancient times to the present day. Mika shared: “I am truly impressed by the beautiful ancient architecture, the vibrant folk festivals, and the stunning traditional costumes. Vietnam is a country rich in spiritual beauty. The customs of worshipping deities and ancestors, along with the mythological stories, give me a sense of mystery that is also very sacred.”
“In France, we also celebrate Christmas, which is similar to Tet in Vietnam. I notice that both holidays have many similarities, as well as interesting differences.” The two students affirmed: “Both holidays are the important ones for the people in each country, and it’s an occasion for those who have traveled far to return and gather with their loved ones. You have kumquat trees, peach blossoms, and apricot flowers during Tet, while we have Christmas trees as decorations. While we exchange gifts with friends and family, you have the custom of giving lucky money to children and elders.” Clara and Mika both agreed that, despite the existing cultural differences between France and Vietnam, both Tet and Christmas are moments when we bid farewell to the past and welcome a new year that filled with faith and hope.
The two French students were very excited to experience instant photography, a trendy activity popular in Vietnam. “In France, we don’t have many entertainment activities like this. In contrast, Hanoi has many spots where you can spend time with friends and create memorable moments together,” Mika enthusiastically shared.
As Clara and Mika concluded their journey exploring Hanoi during the Lunar New Year, they not only experienced the largest traditional festival of Vietnamese but also gained a deeper knowledge of the culture and people of Vietnam. It can be said that this activity contributed to the connection and blending between French and Vietnamese cultures, creating rich experiences and broadening perspectives on cultural diversity around the world. Indeed, Tet Nguyen Dan is an important traditional holiday that reflects the long-standing cultural beauty of the Vietnamese people. It is hoped that these fascinating cultural experiences will continue to inspire love and passion for cultural exploration among international students at USTH in the future.
