Loving Hanoi like a Peruvian "Westerner"

Báo Kinh tế và Đô thị•09/10/2024

After more than 30 years working at the United Nations, Cesar Guedes, a Peruvian citizen, could hardly believe that he and his family immediately "fell in love" with Hanoi when they visited the city more than half a decade ago.

"My life in Hanoi is wonderful, full of joy and excitement!", he shared with Kinh tế & Đô thị (Economy & Urban Affairs) newspaper , expressing his overflowing emotions as Hanoi approaches the significant milestone of the 70th anniversary of the Liberation of the Capital (October 10).

Could you share a little about how you came to Hanoi and Vietnam?

My first visit to Vietnam was with my family during the winter holidays in December 2017. At that time, I was the United Nations Country Director for Pakistan. I was captivated by the history, culture, geography, and the strength and resilience of the Vietnamese people.

Our trip started in Hanoi and ended in Ho Chi Minh City, stopping at Ha Long Bay, Hai Phong, Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An, Nha Trang, the Mekong Delta, and Vung Tau.

Hanoi was the first place we visited, and we immediately fell in love with the city.

Here you'll find a blend of colonial and traditional architecture in the city center, as well as a gradual spread of modernity to other areas like West Lake and beyond. A distinctive feature of Hanoi is its abundance of blue water, numerous beautiful lakes, and shady tree-lined avenues.

This profound impression led us to "resolve" to spend a part of our lives in your beautiful country. Then, in 2021, my wife had the opportunity to work for the Canadian Embassy in Hanoi. At that time, I was the UN Country Director for Afghanistan and retired in early 2022 after 30 years of service to the organization.

My family chose to move to Hanoi and lived in Vietnam for almost three years until we returned to Ottawa, Canada last August. My life in Hanoi was wonderful. I also lectured at the Vietnam National University and taught at the Foreign Trade University (FTU).

How do you perceive the development and changes of Hanoi over the past years?

My time in Hanoi was wonderful, full of joy and excitement! My interest and admiration for Hanoi culture in particular and Vietnamese culture in general motivated and led me to visit most of the city's museums. I also enjoyed exploring the winding streets of the Old Quarter by bicycle, savoring the amazing food "hidden" in the alleyways. Hanoi is a diverse city with a unique and sophisticated blend of classic and modern, tradition and innovation, colonial and Soviet architecture. I love this city and its special identity.

I regularly participate in cultural, social, and sporting activities with my friends who are members of the Friends of Vietnam Heritage group. I also love the unique experiences of browsing and shopping in traditional markets.

In my eyes, Hanoi is always in motion and developing intensely, even during difficult times or when there are many complex developments. When I visited Hanoi in January 2022, it was the end of the pandemic, and while some restrictions remained, life was gradually returning to a new normal. While some public facilities were closed, new buildings were still being constructed, and the metro system was gradually being completed, giving the capital a fresh new look. This also showed the vibrant energy of Hanoi.

Living in the West Lake area, I've witnessed the rapid planning and renovation of Au Co Street, which has become an important thoroughfare connecting this area with many other parts of Hanoi and the airport. I also hope that the renovation of other key roads in the capital will accelerate even further, for example, Xuan Dieu Street – which has the potential to become one of the most beautiful streets in Hanoi, creating a completely different and convenient space for nearby residents.

According to him, what needs to be done for Hanoi to strike a balance between preserving historical and cultural heritage while continuing to develop and modernize?

Hanoi, historically the target of numerous attacks during wartime, has the remarkable ability to "rise from the ashes," powerfully rebuilding itself like a phoenix. It's admirable how the heritage buildings in Hanoi's Old Quarter have been restored and transformed, not only preserving their historical architecture but also giving them new life.

Alongside historical landmarks, modern high-rise buildings are also springing up, painting a bustling and dynamic skyline. This contrast highlights Hanoi's rapid development while preserving its historical roots. The city's landscape is characterized by traditional Eastern designs often combined with modern architectural styles, creating unique structures that honor history while embracing the future. All of this makes Hanoi one of the most vibrant capitals in Southeast Asia.

Having lived in Hanoi for many years, what are your impressions of the city, especially with the anniversary of the Liberation of Hanoi on October 10th fast approaching?

For me, enjoying the atmosphere of the annual Liberation Day celebration on October 10th is a wonderful experience. In 2022 and 2023, I was immersed in the powerful atmosphere of patriotism, and the joy of freedom and unity of the people of the capital. They proudly decorated the streets and houses, filling the city with the colors of the national flag and flowers. I remember in 2023, also on this occasion, I visited Thang Long Imperial Citadel, the Hanoi Flagpole, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum. Personally, I have great admiration for Uncle Ho, for what he contributed, and for his vision of a peaceful and prosperous future for Vietnam.

On this meaningful anniversary, my family and I were immersed in the festive atmosphere, art, and tradition, filled with the fascinating and rich heritage values of Hanoi. It was delightful to stroll around Ho Guom Lake on the day of the Liberation of the Capital, admire the exhibitions and reenactments of historical milestones, and visit the information booths about the rich local products and goods.

I also believe that this event helps the people of Hanoi and international friends appreciate the depth of their culture, as well as enhance the spirit of connection and solidarity. This is also a core aspect of Hanoi's identity, emphasizing the importance of unity and resilience.

Thank you, sir!