My first day in Hai Phong was rather overcast. Sadly, the flamboyant trees hadn't yet bloomed, leaving this Southern visitor longing to see the city in full glory – a city renowned as "the city of red flamboyant flowers".

On my first night in Hai Phong, I took a taxi to Lach Tray, enjoy a bowl of warm, savory bánh đa cua (Hai Phong crab noodles) in the refreshing sea breeze of the harbor. The noodles have the perfect texture - chewy, yet delicate, and the broth is rich, flavourful, and utterly delicious. Touched to see the kind elderly woman who recognized me, a traveller just landed and feeling weary, adding extra rice vermicelli noodles to my bowl as a welcoming gesture. Such simple acts of kindness make travel truly enriching. The serene waters of An Biên Lake are cloaked in a delicate veil of mist. Leisurely wandering around the lake, the traveller, feeling the uncertainties and ambiguities of turning twenty-seven, was struck by a wave of loneliness. A sudden yearning arose within, a desire for companionship, someone to share the weight of unspoken thoughts.

On the next day, Hai Phong welcomes some drizzles. A melancholic hue hangs in the air, a blend of lingering spring and approaching summer. Passing by landmarks like the City Theatre and Hai Phong Station, I lowered my car window, taking in the elegant architectural details.

Leaving the bustling heart of the city, I crossed the majestic Hoàng Văn Thụ Bridge, its bird-wing design soaring gracefully over the Cấm River. Our journey took us towards Thuỷ Nguyên District, a region steeped in history, bearing witness to valiant battles fought against foreign invaders over a millennium ago. The Bạch Đằng River, a silent witness to centuries of history, flows through the heart of Vietnam. Its waters have borne witness to three pivotal battles, each leaving an indelible mark on the nation's past. Today, the Bạch Đằng Giang Historical Site stands as a poignant reminder of these momentous events, inviting visitors to reflect on the sacrifices made and the resilience of the Vietnamese spirit.

Admiring the legendary Bạch Đằng River, the ancient stake site today serves as a poignant reminder of a turbulent yet glorious period in our history. The remnants of the past, such as the weathered wooden stakes that once pierced enemy ships and the weapons used in bygone battles, transport you back in time. Standing there, I felt a profound sense of connection to the past, bridging the gap between then and now. Yesterday's uncertainties have faded, replaced by a surge of national pride coursing through our veins.