On the morning of 25/3, Llia Llin, a Russian tourist, was captivated by the sight of 10 locals harvesting in a Hoa Binh field. Observing a reserved man operating a rice cart and overseeing buffalo, Llin proactively approached the women working. "I think women are usually more open and easier to talk to," he said. Despite initial language barriers, he introduced himself, and the villagers' enthusiasm quickly fostered connection.

Llia Llin takes a photo during his trip to Hoa Binh. Photo: Courtesy of subject

The conversation quickly turned "very Vietnamese." Following polite introductions about names and hometowns, Llin was amused by a direct question: "Are you married yet?" He humorously replied with a "stock answer" he had prepared from past visits to Vietnam: "I will get married in 5 years."

Llin observed that Vietnamese people often ask personal questions, such as age and marital status, early in conversations. Joking about matchmaking is also common. He interpreted this not as intrusive curiosity, but as a sign of their openness, comfort, and desire for connection with others.

Right on the rice paddy bank, Llin was invited to share a simple meal with the villagers. The offering of hot tea, ripe bananas, boiled eggs, and bread evoked a special feeling. "Eating in the field reminded me of my childhood in a Russian village with my grandmother," he recounted.

Llin was particularly struck by the sincerity of the Vietnamese. "They are sincere and express emotions easily," he noted. "Even with my limited Vietnamese, they tried to communicate and responded naturally."

Llia Llin's deep passion for exploring Vietnam's rural areas and villages is evident in his frequent social media posts. He shares videos and articles documenting daily life and local interactions, gaining many views and interactions for his intimate focus on Vietnamese people and culture.

Mai Anh