Vietnam National Day: Insights from expats

On Vietnam's National Day, diplomats and expatriates in Hanoi told The Hanoi Times how the warmth and hospitality of the Vietnamese people, the rapid development of major cities and the country's rich and diverse natural beauty have captured their hearts.

Julien Guerrier, Ambassador and Head of the European Union (EU) Delegation to Vietnam: Impressed by Vietnam’s transformation

Julien Guerrier, Ambassador and Head of the European Union (EU) Delegation to Vietnam.

I am no stranger to Vietnam. I first visited in 1996 and had the honour of participating in the trade negotiations for Vietnam's accession to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) in 2004-2005.

Over nearly 30 years, I have been deeply impressed by Vietnam's development. This success is due to your proactive policy of opening up to the world and your relentless efforts to improve. As the Indo-Pacific region increasingly becomes a global focal point, with Vietnam playing an important economic, demographic and geopolitical role, the EU has developed a strategy to engage more deeply in this region. I believe we are now witnessing what I call the "Vietnam moment".

For decades, the European Union and its Member States have actively supported Vietnam's prosperous development, and this support remains of great importance to us. I also see that the people of Vietnam and the EU share common aspirations, as reflected in Vietnam's motto: Independence - Freedom - Happiness. This motto embodies the shared values and aspirations of the Vietnamese and EU peoples.

In my role, I hope to foster increased human exchanges to achieve these shared goals, particularly through academic and educational exchanges, visits, and contacts at all levels in the future.

I'm also delighted to be working and living in Hanoi, a city that has experienced remarkable growth while retaining its unique charm and historical allure.

Kate Robinson, American, editor for Viet Nam News: Proud of Vietnamese people for their courage and military prowess

Kate Robinson, editor for Viet Nam News.

I'm from the US, so of course we learn about a big part of Vietnam's history - the American war, or what we call the Vietnam war - but we learn very little about Vietnam's history other than our own (very limited!) role in it.

We learn why the US government thought we had to go to war, and we learn that a large number of US citizens were against it, and we even learn about some of the terrible things our soldiers did here and how we lost the war - but we don't really focus on the Vietnamese perspective, and oddly we don't learn much about French colonialism and their involvement. 

So basically I didn't know much about most of Vietnam's history before the mid-20th century.

Since moving here, I've learned so much more about this amazing place and its very long history, including legendary rulers and warriors like Ly Thai To, the Trung Sisters, Lady Trieu, the Hung Kings, the Nguyen Dynasty, the constant struggle with China, and more! I've also learned how Vietnam defeated both the French and the US, and that Vietnamese citizens are (rightfully) proud of their military prowess.

I also think it's pretty cool that Uncle Ho read the Declaration of Independence in 1945 - that's in living memory! For an American, it would be similar if our grandparents could remember our Founding Fathers...but they can't because our Declaration of Independence was first read in public almost 250 years ago, so it feels very far away to us.

The aspect of Vietnamese culture that has struck me the most is your legends and folktales and your rich tradition of writing and storytelling. It makes perfect sense to me that the Temple of Literature is in Hanoi! Much of what I've learned comes from street names -- that's how I learned about Nguyen Du's epic poem, The Tale of Kieu. A book of Vietnamese folk tales taught me about Au Co and Lac Long Quan, which also appear as two main (intersecting) streets in the city.

Michael Schumacher, General Manager Oakwood Residence Hanoi: My heart has been won over by the depth of Vietnamese culture and history

Michael Schumacher, General Manager of Oakwood Residence Hanoi.

"I'm from Germany, and since arriving in Vietnam, I have been fascinated by its rich culture and history. The vibrant traditional festivals with their emphasis on family values and the delicious specialties like pho and banh mi have left a lasting impression on me.

I had known about Vietnam's history through stories and movies, but it was not until I began living and working at Oakwood Residence Hanoi that I truly felt the hardships and difficulties that people have gone through to gain freedom.

After visiting Ba Dinh Square and the Mausoleum of President Ho Chi Minh and learning about Vietnam's historical achievements, I gained a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices and indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese people during the war.

This is my first time experiencing the solemn atmosphere of Vietnam's National Day, and I am eager to fully immerse myself in these commemorative activities. To truly experience National Day, I believe it is essential to visit important historical sites such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ba Dinh Square, and House No. 48 Hang Ngang- where President Ho Chi Minh wrote the Declaration of Independence. Each site provides valuable insight into the historical context and significance of the holiday.

Sunny Ghaiee, Deputy General Manager - Hanoi Daewoo Hotel: Deeply admiring the strength and resilience of the Vietnamese people

Sunny Ghaiee, Deputy General Manager at Hanoi Daewoo Hotel.

My journey of over eight years living and working in Vietnam has deepened my understanding of your country's history and national spirit. During India's National Day and Vietnam's National Day, my colleagues and I engage in meaningful conversations about our shared struggles for independence and the remarkable sacrifices made by previous generations. I see striking similarities between the histories of our two nations. Both peoples have exhibited a strong desire for freedom and have faced challenges with unwavering courage. This has only heightened my admiration for the strength and resilience of the Vietnamese people.

I had the opportunity to visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, which was a profoundly meaningful experience. It allowed me to feel more deeply the affection and respect the Vietnamese people have for their great leader.

Additionally, I truly appreciate the peaceful ambiance of Hanoi during National Day. If you have the chance to visit Vietnam during National Day, I highly recommend attending the Flag Raising Ceremony at Ba Dinh Square at 6:00 a.m. and paying your respects at the mausoleum.

Chaz Hindsley, Audit Director, American: Vietnamese history is about centuries of resilience against various invaders

American Audit Director Chaz Hindsley.

As an American, my understanding of Vietnam used to be shaped mostly by the stories from our history, especially the war we call the “Vietnam War.” But living and working here has opened my eyes to so much more. Vietnam’s history isn’t just about that conflict; it’s about centuries of resilience against various invaders. The way people here have fought to keep their independence is incredibly inspiring to me.

What’s even more surprising is how, after all they’ve been through, the Vietnamese have welcomed us with open arms—even though we were once on opposite sides. I’ve experienced this firsthand, not only with my wife’s family but with everyone I’ve met here. They’re always ready to help, share their culture, and make me feel like I truly belong. The Vietnamese have moved past old resentments and are focusing on building a future of peace and prosperity.

I’ve also learned a lot from the strong family values that are so important here, especially the practice of ancestor worship. It’s something I’d never seen back home, and it’s a beautiful way of connecting generations that I’ve really come to appreciate.

When I compare Vietnam’s National Day with the Fourth of July, I see a special connection: both are times when people come together to celebrate and show their love for their country. It’s a reminder that, no matter where we’re from, we all share the same desire to honor the values that make our nations strong.

If anyone asked me for advice on visiting Vietnam during this time, I’d simply say: Open your heart, put your phone away, and dive into the local life. There’s so much to discover here, and the lessons you’ll learn can truly help you grow.

Actor Charlie Win: "Hanoi is holding on to cultural values and traditions that have stood the test of time

American actor Charlie Win.

For the past 14 years, I’ve had the pleasure of living and working in Hanoi, a city I’ve grown to love deeply. Hanoi isn’t just the capital of Vietnam- it’s the cultural heart of the country, preserving values and traditions that have stood the test of time. Life here can be fast-paced, but there’s still a sense of calm and politeness in the way people interact that I find really refreshing.

In my time here, I’ve traveled to 45 provinces, taken part in cultural tourism programs, and met some amazing people from all over Vietnam. From the historic sites of Dien Bien Phu to the cultural heritage of Hoi An, I’ve come to understand the rich diversity of this country. Each place I’ve visited has deepened my appreciation for the strength and resilience of the Vietnamese people.

Hanoi in particular holds a special place in my heart. The saying "Ha Noi khong voi duoc dau" ("You can't be in a hurry in Hanoi") perfectly captures the essence of the city. Although the city is developing rapidly, with new infrastructure, technology, and residential areas, Hanoi's cultural identity remains strong. For me, Hanoi is not just where I live - it's become my second home, where I've found a deep sense of community and togetherness.

As an actor, I've had the opportunity to participate in many cultural and historical events. While learning about the challenges this country has faced, I've always been in awe of the unbreakable spirit of the Vietnamese people.

In 2023, I was involved in the filming of a historical program that paid tribute to the sacrifices and losses of past generations. These sacrifices have given us the peace and prosperity we enjoy today. It's important that we always remember our history and honor the values we hold dear, because nothing is more precious than independence and freedom.