An Australian photographer's 'fascination' with Vietnam

According to the VNA correspondent in Oceania, on July 3, The Daily Telegraph published an article by Australian journalist and photographer Ronan O'Connell, in which he praised the beautiful landscapes and cuisine of Vietnam, and expressed his impression of famous landmarks as "Asia's most attractive destinations".

Ha Long Bay is one of the destinations that journalist Ronan O'Connell was particularly impressed with. Photo: screenshot from newspaper page

In the article, journalist O'Connell said he has visited Vietnam 19 times over the past 18 years and has always been fascinated by the diverse beauty, hospitality and vibrant atmosphere of the "S-shaped strip of land". From the first time he set foot in Vietnam, he was "fascinated" by this country and often returned whenever he had the chance.

Journalist O'Connell was delighted and impressed to see hundreds of Vietnamese high school students wearing elegant ao dai, posing for graduation photos on the banks of Hoan Kiem Lake at sunset. Their bright smiles and excitement added to the joyful, vibrant atmosphere of a city that the journalist's brother, who accompanied him, called "full of energy."

Vietnam is on a strong growth trajectory, with tourism growth of 40% in the past year and the potential to overtake Thailand as Southeast Asia's second-largest economy , according to Mr. O'Connell. On recent trips, he felt the potential as he wandered through tourist-filled cities, chatting with taxi drivers, restaurant and hotel staff, and students trying to improve their English skills.

Of course, these things alone cannot make a destination attractive. According to journalist O'Connell, Vietnam possesses incredible values, which are exquisite hospitality, reliable safety, diverse landscapes, great historical relics and world- class cuisine. For that reason, Vietnam "captivated" him from the beginning and became more and more attractive.

Journalist O'Connell was very impressed with Ha Long Bay, a natural wonder and a world heritage recognized by the United NationsEducational , Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), with thousands of large and small limestone islands rising from the emerald green waters of the East Sea. Watching sunrises and sunsets in Ha Long Bay were deeply imprinted in his memory.

In addition to Ha Long Bay, journalist O'Connell also enjoyed his experience at the "pearl of the Far East" Phu Quoc with many peaceful beaches such as Khem Beach, Ong Lang Beach, Sao Beach and luxurious resorts with affordable prices, impressive amusement parks and tropical beauty.

Coming to Ho Chi Minh City, journalist O'Connell calls it a "culinary paradise" with traditional Vietnamese dishes such as banh xeo, goi cuon, banh mi and pho.

According to the photographer-journalist, while Ho Chi Minh City represents Vietnam's modern future, Hanoi embodies the country's glorious past. Hanoi is home to many of Vietnam's most stunning historical wonders, such as the Temple of Literature, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, and especially the charming “maze” of the Old Quarter.

Journalist O'Connell said that few Asian cities can match the colorful beauty of Hoi An. Photo: screenshot from newspaper page

According to him, tourists coming to Vietnam should not miss a trip to Sapa, a town on a majestic mountainside, famous for its unique ethnic minority culture. He also did not forget to mention Da Nang - a city that he considered an ideal destination for families thanks to its combination of natural beauty and modern conveniences. He praised it as "the largest city in Vietnam closely connected to nature", where visitors can experience everything from the sea to the forest, from high-class resorts to famous attractions such as Ba Na Hills, Golden Bridge or Ngu Hanh Son.

No other major city in Vietnam has such a close connection with nature, he said. Guests can swim at the resort's private beach, then drive just 10 minutes into the bustling city center to relax, explore the fascinating Con Market, enjoy fresh seafood or sip a cup of local specialty coconut coffee.

At the end of the article, journalist O'Connell gave special praise to Hoi An - an ancient riverside town recognized by UNESCO, with more than 1,000 ancient wooden houses of many colors, harmoniously combining Asian and European architecture. During the day, Hoi An Ancient Town becomes brilliant when the sunlight shines on all the colors, murals, statues, stoneware and wood carvings. At night, this place becomes even more memorable thanks to the rainbow light emitted from thousands of colorful traditional paper lanterns hanging on the streets.

With sincere emotions after nearly 2 decades of attachment, the Australian journalist has contributed a vivid perspective on Vietnam - a destination that is not only beautiful in terms of scenery but also rich in identity and full of vitality.

According to VNA

Source: https://baoangiang.com.vn/hanh-trinh-say-me-viet-nam-cua-mot-nhiep-anh-gia-australia-a423706.html