A Spirit City Beneath the Physical Realm: Da Nang, Vietnam

Vietnam's Da Nang is more than just a location on a map; it exists beyond the physical world. A site where history, artistry, and the human spirit come together to create an experience that goes beyond sightseeing, it is profound and incredibly genuine. My spirit city, Da Nang, connects with my soul in ways I never imagined and is more than just a random location.

In my opinion, a spirit city is not limited to its actual streets, buildings, and infrastructure. It reveals itself through common experiences, history, hopes for the future, and the collective consciousness of its people.  This energy is personified in Da Nang, which makes itself known via its rituals, traditions, and interpersonal relationships. The smiles of complete strangers, the sounds of street entertainers, the laughing from local bars, and the small, subtle nods of agreement all contribute to the strong sense of community.

Reflecting on my time in Da Nang, I find myself comparing it all to my time in Zhongshan, China. Although my life was greatly impacted by China, Da Nang has evolved into a location where I feel completely present. Da Nang is unique because of its stunning topography, which includes green mountains, a vibrant riverfront, stunning beaches, and serene atmosphere.

Da Nang has become my spirit city in large part because of the kindness and compassion of the Vietnamese people. At first, I was anxious about how I would be greeted, but every smile and wave from the people told me that Da Nang is home to amazing individuals.  From the time you arrive, their kindness makes you feel like a member of their family.

Vietnam is a foodie's paradise, as Anthony Bourdain correctly described it, and Central Vietnam, which includes Da Nang, has emerged as one of my favorite places to eat. In addition to being delicious the cuisine is also quite healthy. A stronger bond with the local way of life is fostered by the distinctive, thrilling, and adventurous experiences that come with each meal. Inspired by the legendary chef, I've embraced gastronomic exploration to strengthen my bonds with my hosts.

Da Nang has also become my spirit city because of its rich past. The city has its own distinct character due to the fusion of old customs and contemporary influences from the meeting of North and South Vietnamese cultures. The city still bears the scars of its stormy past, which spans from French colonial rule to the American War, transforming every alleyway and market into a living history book.

I have a special place in my heart for the beach, a place where the sun is my enemy during the day but becomes my own personal playground at dusk. I take comfort in the deserted, moonlit shoreline as I run south along the beach toward the larger resorts; it's a hidden gem that feels like a private beach and is always free. 

My affection towards Da Nang is further enhanced by the city's expansion. Being one of Vietnam's fastest-growing cities, it draws visitors and businesspeople alike, fostering an environment of opportunity and advancement that is contagious and motivating. In addition to being clever and interesting, my university students also foster an atmosphere that supports my aspirations and my colleagues have given me unmatched support, pushing me to put in more effort and aim higher in both my personal and professional lives.

Da Nang has turned into my haven from the hectic pace of everyday life, offering rare but necessary moments of peace. Da Nang helps me find my inner peace and center my chi, whether I'm running barefoot along the beach or honing my yoga poses. It has evolved into more than just a location where I live; it is now my home, where I've found love, a new sense of purpose, physical and mental well-being, and, most significantly, my serenity.

Da Nang, Vietnam is more than simply a city; it's my spirit city, a symbol of the deep bond that exists between a person and a place