There are moments in life when you suddenly realise that “this is it” — that you’ve truly crossed the line between discovering and living a new culture.
October was one of those moments for me.
Six Weeks, Ten Thousand Kilometres Away
It all started with a milestone I had never reached before: six weeks on my own, 10,000 km away from Isabelle. We had never been apart for that long.
It was a challenge — and an opportunity.
I learned how to operate solo again, manage the quiet evenings, and enjoy simple things like sharing a good meal with colleagues. There’s something about food that builds invisible bridges — between people, cultures, and stories.
Grateful on Both Fronts
The more time I spend in Vietnam, the more I realise how lucky I am — both personally and professionally.
At work, I meet more colleagues, understand their journeys, and see an impressive drive to learn and grow. Leadership workshops and intercultural awareness sessions have become genuine highlights of my routine.
It’s rewarding to feel that what I help organise actually makes a difference — and that it happens in a warm, collaborative atmosphere. Humility is a key value here, and the Intercultural Intelligence session truly hit home.
Having a lecturer half-French, half-Vietnamese added a unique perspective, one that resonated deeply with my own experience of living between worlds. (Stay tuned — a full article on that topic is here.)
Social Moments that Matter
Early in the month, I had dinner with Ad, who was visiting his teams in Southeast Asia. We shared great memories from our Shell and SAP days — and yes, the Wagyu steak absolutely deserves a mention. It was a refined evening with the perfect combination of nostalgia, conversation, and taste.
A few weeks later, I returned to the same spot — this time with Isabelle and my mum. The circle was complete.
And speaking of culinary discoveries — the Dim Sum Brunch at the Hilton Saigon (39th floor) was nothing short of exceptional. Perfect service, delicious dishes, and a stunning view from the 40th-floor observation deck. Moments like this remind me why I love calling this city home.
Another favourite: Morico at Crescent Mall — my go-to for quick, comforting food. Fried prawns and chicken ramen did not disappoint!
Family Arrival – A New Chapter
October 16 marked a new beginning: Isabelle, my mum, and Woody finally arrived in Ho Chi Minh City!
It’s a big move — especially for my mum, being far from Belgium — but I’m determined to make this chapter special for them. The three of them have already settled in beautifully, and we keep exploring the city together, adjusting our daily routines and finalising the little things that make a place home.
Yes, I also made the “investment of the month” — a sofa dedicated entirely to Woody. He’s officially the most spoiled dog in District 7. 🐾
Looking Ahead: Travels and Togetherness
We’re now planning our Christmas week in Bangkok with Yael, followed by a short stay in central Saigon to lock my Accor status (a travel geek’s pride!).
And before that — a long weekend in Da Nang, which promises to be full of surprises for Isabelle and my mum.
Work, Vision, and the Bigger Picture
Professionally, I feel the momentum building. The team continues to mature, strengthen its ways of working, and set the stage for what I expect to be a very strong delivery year in 2026.
Working on campus during the school break is another experience — quieter, spacious, no queues at the coffee shops, yet still full of energy.
A meaningful moment this month was my discussion with the Pro Vice-Chancellor, hearing his vision for the university and reflecting on how our projects align with that broader mission.
Everyday Joys
Evenings also have their simple pleasures. One night, Isabelle, my mum and I decided to leave Woody home for a couple of hours (a first!) and walked to Spritz Italian Restaurant, just 500m from our place.
Good food, warm atmosphere, and when we returned — Woody was peacefully asleep. Mission accomplished.
Wrapping Up
So yes — October was full of discoveries, emotions, and embedding ourselves deeper into this wonderful life in Vietnam.
I feel genuinely blessed — surrounded by great people, inspiring work, and the comforting presence of family.
November and December already promise to be rich in new adventures — stay tuned!
