Vietnam Unlocked: Discover Vietnam through the eyes of international students

Let's follow six international students from Germany, the Netherlands, the UK, and Australia as they share what it’s really like to live, learn and explore in Vietnam.

From curiosity to connection

For Ella Waldenmaier from Germany, Vietnam was a hidden gem waiting to be explored. “I’ve always felt a connection to Vietnam, even before I arrived,” she said. Drawn by glowing stories from friends and even her former boss, Ella soon found herself savouring every bowl of phở, living in a spacious apartment with a pool, and flying north to Sapa just days after landing.

Dutch student Melle van Bolhuis chose Vietnam because it was something different. “I had never been here. I didn’t know what to expect, and that’s what made it perfect.” From navigating the infamous Vietnamese traffic to conquering the legendary Ha Giang Loop, his four-month exchange became a non-stop adventure.

Jacob Holland from the UK picked Hanoi for its seasons and stayed for the street food, football culture, and weekend getaways. “At first, I was a bit nervous about zipping through Hanoi’s busy streets, but once I got the hang of it, it's incredible,” he laughed.

Living, learning, and loving the local way

Vietnam is not just a destination; it’s an experience for all the senses. From food to architecture, from street culture to classroom dynamics, each student found themselves deeply immersed in a rich and vibrant daily life.

Australia student Emelie Fennessy was drawn by the contrast between the buzzing streets and tranquil cafés. “RMIT’s cross-campus program made the transition easy, and I’ve gained so much by studying in a new cultural context,” she shared.

As design students, Iris de Nooijer and Vera van de Wiel (both from the Netherlands) were captivated by Hanoi’s architecture, where old-world charm meets contemporary creativity. “It’s incredibly inspiring for any designer,” Iris explained.

From street celebrations after football victories to café hopping and spa days, Vietnam has surprised them all with its affordability, friendliness, and endless opportunities to explore.

It’s not just a semester, it’s a transformation

Across all six stories, one message rings clear: Vietnam changes you. It’s the late-night phở, the cheers during football victories, the peaceful moments at a café, and the global friendships formed on campus and on the road.

“You don’t just observe Vietnamese culture, you become part of it,” Iris reflected. “And in that process, you end up discovering parts of yourself you never knew existed.”

Unlock Vietnam, unlock yourself

The ‘Vietnam Unlocked’ series highlights what makes RMIT Vietnam special: international education in the heart of Southeast Asia, a vibrant community, and the chance to experience Vietnam not just as a visitor but as a local.

The series is a window into a study abroad experience like no other. Through the voices of Melle, Ella, Emelie, Jacob, Iris, and Vera, we see a Vietnam that’s full of life, learning, and limitless discovery.

If you’re looking for an exchange program that will challenge you, inspire you, and surprise you in the best way possible, Vietnam is ready for you.

Watch the full Vietnam Unlocked series now on RMIT University Vietnam’s YouTube and Facebook.

Story: Chi Do