2025 is a great year for me because I’ve traveled to many places and spent one month exploring each country. So far, I’ve been to China, Thailand, and Vietnam, each for a month. Right now, I’m writing this from Hanoi.
I first visited Vietnam 10 years ago, when I followed my university roommate and friend, Amy, back to her hometown. Back then, we mostly ate, partied, dealt with hangovers, and went shopping. Now, Amy is a mom to a cute baby boy and lives in the US. At that time, I didn’t know much about Vietnam’s history. I didn’t even realize that Vietnam and my country, Indonesia, share the same independence year, which is 1945.
This time, I know better. I traveled from south to north, starting in Ho Chi Minh City, then Da Nang, Hoi An, Hanoi, Halong Bay, and soon I’ll head to the Ha Giang Loop and Sapa. I’ve eaten so much good food here. It doesn’t surprise me how many Michelin-starred and Michelin-recommended restaurants are in Vietnam—but none in Indonesia. Why is that?
Before I left Bali for Vietnam, people in my country were protesting against the government. That’s when I started reading more about politics, and I realized everything is political. Maybe the reason there’s no Michelin star or guide in Indonesia is simply because there’s no relationship between Michelin and my country. But honestly, even though I’m Indonesian and might sound biased, I think Indonesian food is the best. I can name so many great restaurants back home. There were even times when I felt underwhelmed by Michelin’s recommendations. Like, “That’s it?”
Back to Vietnam, this trip has been so special. I haven’t finished it yet, since I still have several days left and two more places to visit. I also ate at some of the places where Anthony Bourdain once ate. But I can definitely say this: everyone should visit Vietnam if you love good food.
Feel free to read my past blog post about Vietnam:
See you in the next post!
