Love Hanoi like a "Western" Peruvian

After more than 30 years working at the United Nations, Mr. Cesar Guedes - a Peruvian citizen - could not believe that he and his family immediately "fell in love" with Hanoi when they visited this city more than half a decade ago.

“My life in Hanoi is wonderful, full of joy and excitement!”, he shared with Kinh te & Do thi his overwhelming emotions at the time when Hanoi is very close to the meaningful milestone of 70 years of Liberation of the Capital (October 10).

Can you share a little bit about your "fate" to Hanoi, to Vietnam?

I first visited Vietnam with my family during the winter break in December 2017. At that time, I was the UN Country Director for Pakistan. I was fascinated by the history, culture, geography, as well as 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 set foot in and immediately “fell in love” with this city.

There is a mix of colonial and traditional architecture in the city centre, as well as the way modernity is slowly creeping into other areas such as Tay Ho and beyond. A special feature of Hanoi is the abundance of green water, many beautiful lakes and shady trees.

This deep impression made us “determined” 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 this organization.

My family chose to come to Hanoi and lived in Vietnam for almost 3 years until returning to Ottawa, Canada last August. My life in Hanoi was wonderful. I also participated in guest lectures at Vietnam National University and taught at Foreign Trade University (FTU).

How do you feel about the development and changes of Hanoi city over the years?

My time in Hanoi was wonderful, full of joy and excitement! My interest and admiration for Hanoi culture in particular and Vietnam in general motivated and guided me to visit most of the museums in the city. I also enjoyed exploring the winding streets of the Old Quarter by bicycle, enjoying the wonderful food “hidden” in the alleys. Hanoi is a diverse city with a unique and sophisticated combination of classic and modern, traditional and innovative, colonial and Soviet architecture. I love this city and its unique identity.

I regularly participate in cultural, social and sports activities with my friends in the Friends of Vietnam Heritage group. I also love the special experiences of shopping in traditional markets.

In my eyes, Hanoi is always moving and developing strongly, even in difficult times or with many complicated developments. In January 2022, when I came to Hanoi, it was the end of the pandemic, there were still some restrictions although life was gradually returning to a new normal. While some public works were closed, new buildings were still being built and the metro system was gradually being completed, bringing fresh perspectives to the appearance of the capital. This is also a sign of Hanoi's strong vitality.

Living in the Tay Ho area, I have witnessed Au Co Street being rapidly planned and renovated, becoming an important route connecting this area with many other parts of Hanoi and the airport. I also hope that the renovation of the capital's main roads will accelerate further, such as 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 people living nearby.

In your opinion, what should Hanoi do to balance preserving historical and cultural heritage while continuing to develop and modernize?

Hanoi has been the target of many attacks during the war, but has the ability to “rise up from the mud and shine brightly”, rebuilding strongly, like a symbol of a phoenix. It is admirable that the heritage buildings in Hanoi’s Old Quarter have been restored and transformed, not only preserving the historical architecture but also giving them a new life.

Alongside the historic buildings, modern high-rise buildings are also springing up, creating a bustling and dynamic skyline. This contrast highlights Hanoi’s rapid development while preserving its historical roots. The city’s spaces feature traditional oriental 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 is your impression of this city, especially when the anniversary of the Capital Liberation on October 10 is approaching?

For me, enjoying the atmosphere of the annual celebration of the Capital Liberation Day on October 10 is a wonderful experience. In 2022 and 2023, I was immersed in the strong atmosphere of patriotism, and the joy of freedom and solidarity of the capital's people. They proudly decorated the streets and houses, making the place filled with the colors of the national flag and flowers. I remember in 2023, also on this occasion, I visited the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, the Hanoi Flag Tower and the Ho Chi Minh Museum. Personally, I have great admiration for Uncle Ho, what he has dedicated and envisioned for a peaceful and developed future for Vietnam.

On this meaningful occasion, my family and I were able to immerse ourselves in the festive, artistic and traditional atmosphere, filled with the fascinating and rich heritage values of Hanoi. It was interesting to walk around Hoan Kiem Lake on the Liberation Day of the Capital, admire the exhibitions displaying and recreating historical milestones, and visit the information booths about the rich local products and regions.

I also believe that this event will help the people of the capital and international friends appreciate the depth of 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 solidarity and resilience.

Thank you!