You know, every time the new year begins, I always want to try something different. That year, instead of gathering around the family dinner table as usual, I decided to pack my bags and head to Northwest Vietnam – Ha Giang, to experience spring amidst the majestic mountains and forests. I longed to experience Tet (Vietnamese New Year) there firsthand, where nature harmonizes with the colorful traditional customs of the highlanders.

The journey began on the afternoon of the 30th of Tet (Lunar New Year's Eve), when the city was filled with laughter and chatter. In contrast to that hustle and bustle, I traveled alone towards a new land. In my mind, I imagined colorful markets, magnificent traditional costumes, and moments that only Tet could offer – the dream of any photographer.

The road to Ha Giang during Tet (Lunar New Year) takes on a rare beauty. Trees along the roadside sprout new leaves, vibrant wildflowers line the path, and the laughter of highland children echoes through the air. The setting sun paints the sky red, evoking a sense of nostalgia. I felt the transformation of nature, as if everything was harmonizing to welcome a new spring.

On the first morning of the new year, as the gentle sunrise illuminated the mountains, I rode my motorbike through a vast and tranquil landscape. The winding mountain pass resembled a soft silk ribbon beneath a hazy mist. In the distance, the bright red roof of the school nestled against the mountainside, painting a peaceful picture of a New Year's Day in the highlands.

Those moments are hard to describe – no city noise, only the gentle breeze and the chirping of birds. The vast green of the forest, the pristine white of the plum blossoms, and the soft golden light of the spring sun blended together to create a magical symphony. I felt like I was lost in a fairy tale, where everything was pure and full of life.

One of the most memorable experiences of the trip was visiting the border market during Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year). The scene was like a grand festival, where people not only came to buy and sell but also to share their joy and hopes for the new year.

The traditional costumes of the Hmong, Dao, and Tay people shimmered in the spring sunshine. Red, yellow, green, purple – each color interwoven like a vibrant painting. The melodious sounds of the reed pipe and flute drew me into a rich cultural atmosphere. People came to the market not only to buy and sell, but also to meet and exchange good wishes for the new year.

I couldn't take my eyes off the radiant, happy faces, the nimble hands selling and buying, and the bright smiles of the people. My heart told me this was a moment not to be missed. I raised my camera, trying to capture every frame, every story.

Each photograph is like a page in a book. It captures the infectious smiles of children wearing new clothes for the first time, the affectionate gaze of a mother leading her child to the market, and the skillful hands of a woman weaving. All of them hold unspoken stories, yet are full of emotion.

I was particularly impressed by the image of a little girl, following her father to the market in a vibrant traditional outfit, like a princess stepping out of a fairy tale. Every detail of her attire – from the meticulous embroidery to the vivid, blending colors – exuded the unique and pure cultural beauty of the highland people.

Her small eyes sparkled with innocence, mixed with a touch of curiosity as she walked through the bustling Tet market, captivating my attention. I knew this was a precious moment for me. Upon receiving a gentle nod from her father – a silent but deeply respectful agreement – ​​I immediately followed her lively movements. The images were natural and unforced, depicting a little princess amidst majestic mountains and forests, where traditional cultural values ​​were fully recreated through the eyes of a child.

Upon returning, I brought back photos and stories of the Northwest region. I know that a "late" Tet celebration with family is still possible, but spring in Ha Giang gave me unforgettable emotions. It wasn't just a trip, but a journey of self-discovery – free, peaceful, and full of inspiration.

If you're used to celebrating Tet (Lunar New Year) in the hustle and bustle of city life, try escaping for a change. Let your feet lead you to new lands, where mountains and forests beckon and emotions are unleashed. Perhaps you'll discover a different kind of spring, where everything is simply and beautifully enchanting.

Try it, a spring like that!