Food, nightlife, and culture of Ho Chi Minh City on full display for Australian singer

Food, nightlife, and culture of Ho Chi Minh City on full display for Australian singer

Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling metropolis that captivates visitors with its vibrant energy and rich cultural heritage. From the lively atmosphere of Nguyen Hue walking street to the tantalising aroma of bánh xèo, the city offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition.

In a collaboration with RMIT Vietnam, Los Angeles-based, Australian singer, songwriter, and producer Jack Gray embarked on a journey through the city, capturing its essence alongside Nguyen Khanh Chi, an enthusiastic RMIT Professional Communication student from the University’s Buddy team.

The Buddy team, a key support network for international students at RMIT Vietnam, plays a pivotal role in facilitating them to settle into the country and embrace Vietnamese culture while they are studying at RMIT. Guided city tours, cooking classes, welcome dinners, Vietnamese language lessons, and community engagement trips are just a few of the activities that foster a warm and inclusive environment for all.

During his visit to RMIT Vietnam, Jack teamed up with students from the School of Communication & Design (Digital Media) for the Music Video Production course, an exceptional Work Integrated Learning (WIL) activity. This collaboration provided Jack with the opportunity to immerse himself in Vietnamese culture and explore the vibrancy of Ho Chi Minh City.

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The resulting video takes viewers on a captivating journey through the cultural wonders of the city. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the video showcases the essence of Ho Chi Minh City as seen through the eyes of an international friend.

Jack immersed himself in the art of Vietnamese coffee tasting, enjoying the aromatic flavours of this renowned beverage brewed using the traditional coffee sock method. He also explored the cultural heritage of the city by visiting Chua Ba temple in District 5, where he appreciated the spiritual atmosphere. Taking his exploration further, Jack embraced the vibrant ambiance of Ben Thanh market by navigating through its bustling aisles. Not one to miss out on culinary adventures, Jack delighted in tasting the scrumptious bánh xèo, savouring every bite of the crispy pancake filled with flavourful ingredients. To complete his experience, Chi and Jack strolled along Nguyen Hue walking street, enjoying the lively energy of the city.

The project represents more than just a visual exploration of the city; it celebrates the power of music, culture, and friendship.

Ho Chi Minh City's vibrant energy and unique charm have left a memorable mark on Jack. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with RMIT Vietnam students, remarking that the experience provided him with a deeper understanding of Vietnamese culture and a newfound appreciation for the city.

“It is such an amazing city. You can really see the culture and the heritage on every street corner. It is a beautiful way of life, and the people are so awesome,” Jack said.

Prepare to be enthralled by the sights, sounds, and stories that await you in this visual journey which is a genuine testament to the city's ability to mesmerise and inspire.

Join Jack and Chi as they navigate the vibrant streets, taste the local delicacies, and encounter the warmth and hospitality of Ho Chi Minh City.

Story: June Pham

21 July 2023

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