This year, I had the chance to explore four countries — Vietnam, China, Italy, and Switzerland. Each destination offered me more than just postcard-perfect landscapes; they taught me culture, community, and life lessons. Traveling is often seen as an escape, but for me, it became a way to dive deeper into understanding the world and connecting with its people. Let me take you along on this unforgettable adventure.

Subhrajit Barua in Iseltwald, Switzerland. Photo courtesy of the subject

Vietnam: a heartwarming dive into everyday life

My journey began in Vietnam, a country rich in history, resilience, and warmth. However, this trip wasn’t just a typical tourist experience; I had the privilege of staying with my girlfriend’s family, immersing myself in the everyday life of a simple Vietnamese household. This insider’s perspective was nothing short of transformative. Contrary to popular belief, dishes like pho and nem aren’t staples on the Vietnamese dinner table. Everyday meals are very basic yet fulfilling — an abundance of vegetables, a variety of meats, rice, and fruits form the base of most meals. What makes these meals special is the way they are shared. Everyone sits together in a circle, sharing food, stories, and laughter. It’s more than just eating; it’s a time to bond and connect.

I explored the countryside of Nam Định, a beautiful town located some 100 miles southeast of Hanoi, popularly known as the birthplace of pho. This was where I learned about the agricultural backbone of the country. Meeting farmers and listening to their stories gave me a new appreciation for the hard work that sustains Vietnam. One thing I realized everywhere I went was that the echoes of the Vietnam War are still present in the collective consciousness of its people. Visiting historic sites and talking to locals deepened my understanding of their strength and unity. Beyond the history, I marveled at the diverse beauty of places like Da Nang, the ancient charm of Hoi An, the lush landscapes of Dak Lak, and the bustling streets of Hanoi.

Vietnam showed me how resilience, simplicity, and unity can shape a beautiful community.

China: a brief but memorable encounter

On my return journey from Vietnam to Russia, I had a 21-hour layover in Chengdu, Sichuan. Thanks to China’s free 24-hour transit visa, I was able to seize the opportunity to explore this vibrant city. Though my time there was short, it left a lasting impression. Chengdu welcomed me with its blend of tradition and modernity. I visited the Wenshu Yuan Monastery, a serene oasis in the heart of the city. Walking through Tianfu Square, I felt the pulse of a city that is both steeped in history and racing toward the future.

Sichuan cuisine is famous worldwide and I couldn’t miss the chance to try authentic street food. The bold flavors, tingling spices, and fragrant aromas were an adventure for my taste buds. Of course, no trip to Chengdu is complete without seeing pandas, the city’s iconic residents. It was such a joyous encounter to meet these bubbly creatures at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Their playful antics and serene demeanor filled me with a childlike delight and a deep sense of awe for these gentle creatures. Despite my limited time, I was fascinated by China’s efficient metro network and the seamless blend of cultural heritage with urban dynamism. It left me yearning to return and explore more of this vast country.

Italy: a symphony of history and modernity

In October 2024, I traveled to Italy for a conference in Milan and the trip turned out to be much more than a professional commitment — it was a love affair with history, architecture, and food. Milan, the fashion capital of the world, is a city of contrasts. Its streets are lined with modern boutiques and historic architecture, creating a unique blend of tradition and innovation. The Duomo di Milano is undoubtedly the crown jewel, but what struck me most was the city’s balance between old and new.

Public transport, while efficient, wasn’t immune to the occasional strikes, which brought the city to a complete standstill during my visit, not once but twice! Yet, amidst the chaos, Milan had its charm. Staying near Cimitero Maggiore, a cemetery that’s both somber and stunning, added a reflective depth to my experience. My exploration extended beyond Milan. I took a day trip to Rome and Vatican City, which turned out to be a truly enlightening journey. Rome’s historic grandeur left me speechless. "All roads lead to Rome," they say, and quite literally, its intricate road network seems to always circle back to the same place.

In Vatican City, standing before St. Peter’s Basilica, I was reminded of the power of human faith and artistry. In the afternoon, for just 10 euros, I enjoyed a classic Neapolitan pizza with anchovies — a meal as humble as it was divine! Exploring the Colosseum ticked off a bucket list item for me as I was overjoyed to finally explore this epic monument in its magnificent aura! Dinner near the Fontana di Trevi was sublime! With dishes like Margherita pizza and pasta Carbonara, the perfect day came to a perfect end. Rome felt like a living museum, every corner, every street held a story. Italy, as a whole, reminded me of the beauty of preservation and the importance of savoring life’s simple pleasures.

Switzerland: a day of Alpine dreams

My Swiss adventure was a testament to persistence. Initially thwarted by a transportation strike on October 13, I tried again two days later and it was worth every effort. Starting from Milan, I crossed into Switzerland via Domodossola and eventually arrived in Spiez. Though I was greeted by rain, the beauty of the Swiss countryside shone through. As the weather cleared, I journeyed to Interlaken, a picturesque town nestled between two shimmering lakes.

Interlaken’s charm lies in its tranquility and its stunning natural backdrop — the Alps. A short bus ride took me to Iseltwald, a quaint village that looked like it was pulled straight from a storybook. The clear skies and the crisp mountain air were invigorating, making me appreciate the grandeur of nature even more.

On my way back, I explored Interlaken Ost (the other half of the town on the eastern side of the lake), indulged in some window shopping for watches (it is Switzerland, after all), and soaked in the serene atmosphere before heading back to Milan. For me, this trip to Switzerland was a reminder of the restorative power of nature and the importance of chasing dreams, no matter the obstacles.

As I reflect on my travels, I realize how much they’ve shaped me this year. Vietnam taught me the beauty of simplicity and community. China showed me the importance of seizing opportunities, however fleeting. Italy celebrated the richness of history and culture while Switzerland inspired me to persist and embrace the majesty of Nature. Travel is not just about visiting places; it’s about immersing yourself in the experiences, connecting with people, and allowing the journey to transform you. Each destination added layers to my understanding of the world, opening my mind to new perspectives and filling my heart with gratitude.

Here’s to more adventures, more connections, and more stories in the years to come!

Tags: Blog, Stories, International Student, Italy, Vietnam, Switzerland, China, Blogger, Travel