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My First International Trip: Vietnam

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I finally ticked off a major milestone this month—I went on my first international trip! Vietnam was the destination, and I went along with my sister and a friend. 

We planned it all within two months, which, in hindsight, felt a bit rushed. In our excitement, we tried to cover too much in too little time. Our itinerary was built for seven days, but when you take out the travel days, we were really left with only five. We now realize we could have planned it better—maybe focused on just one or two regions instead of trying to do everything. Still, no regrets. We took a ton of photos, shared some laughs, and made memories.

A Few Reflections from the Trip

One of the biggest takeaways for me was realizing how much I value solo travel. Don’t get me wrong—traveling with friends and family is lovely. You share the highs, split the logistics, and there’s always someone to take your picture. But I did find myself longing for the kind of freedom that only solo travel allows. To go wherever I want, whenever I feel like it. To eat what I crave without negotiating, to be in silence if I choose, and just to fully be myself. I’ve always sensed that solo travel is something I’d enjoy, and this trip only reinforced that. I may continue traveling with friends and family, but I will make sure I do some solo trips too. I owe this to myself.

Falling for Danang

If there’s one place I fell in love with, it’s Danang. There’s something about that coastal city that feels both calming and invigorating. I can actually imagine going back, not just as a visitor, but maybe living there for a while. The place just feels right.

Learning Through Faces

Another thing I found fascinating during the trip was the diversity of Asian faces. I could often recognize Koreans, probably because I’d watched a lot of Korean dramas and movies when I was younger. There’s something distinct in their style and mannerisms. I also felt I could tell who the Japanese tourists were—there’s an air of quiet confidence, or maybe pride, that I picked up on. With Chinese tourists, I wasn't as sure—maybe I just haven’t watched enough Chinese media to spot those cues. Then there were others I couldn’t place at all. I knew they were different Asians, and that only made me more curious. Funnily enough, to many people outside of Asia, we’re all just "Chinese."

“You're From Where?”

One thing that happened a lot—almost without fail—was being asked where we were from. Cab drivers, waiters, shopkeepers... everyone seemed curious. And their reactions when we said “India”? Surprised doesn’t even begin to cover it. The responses ranged from “Are you sure?” (yes, really) to “No, you’re NOT!” and “You don’t look Indian.” Some asked three times just to be sure.

It’s because we’re from Northeast India, and we don’t look like the stereotypical image people have of Indians. It made me think about representation and visibility—how certain faces dominate the global idea of “Indian,” while the rest of us often have to explain ourselves. It’s strange and a little tiring, but also a good reminder of the importance of being seen.

Final Thoughts

Vietnam was beautiful, intense, and full of little discoveries—about the world and about myself. I learned that I want to travel more, and maybe sometimes alone. I learned that I’m curious about cultures, faces, languages, and places I’ve never known. And I learned that there’s always more to unlearn than you expect.

Would I go back? Absolutely. Especially to Danang. Maybe next time, I’ll go solo.

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