I believe that hobbies are necessary in everyone life that is because it has the happiness, relaxation, and stability. A hobby is a thing that a person is interested in doing and spending their free time on. There are all kinds of different hobbies and interests for everyone. I also read and cook." Cooking is my favourite hobby as I can be creative and adventurous with food." I play around with ingredients and flavors and it’s really rewarding when I can stand in front of my family or my friends and say :” Here I am, I cooked for you.” Reading is my other favourite hobby. I like to read novels and mangas because it help me relax and i also help to improve imagination and creativity side of mind.

It is through books that I can fell like travel to different places, encounter different cultures and thoughts, and diverse experiences without stepping out of my house.

Therapeutic hobbies such as cooking and reading also bring health benefits to our mind. They come with stress reduction, enhanced focus and a feeling of accomplishment. With hobbies, people can also acquire new skills, or even find out that they had a hidden talent. Cooking helps people develop patience and organizational skills, and reading helps individuals to expand their vocabulary and critical thinking skills.

Furthermore, hobbies create opportunities to share one’s interests with others (exercising friendships over the kitchen table or breaking bread with friends ). From everything I have read, everyone should have at least one hobby. Hobbies make life more fun, meaningful and colorful. They’re not just ways to fill the time, but also necessities for a happy, healthy and balanced life.

There are many international fast-food brands such as KFC, Lotteria, Jollibee, McDonald’s,…have opened hundreds of restaurants across Viet Nam. Besides international brands, local fast-food options are also very popular. Vietnamese people have their own version of fast food, including Banh mi, Xoi ga (chicken sticky rice), Banh xeo (Crispy Vietnamese pancake), Bun cha (grilled pork noodles). These dishes are quick, affordable and rich in local flavor, often sold by street vendors or small stores. 

Fast food offers several advantages. The first and most important benefit is convenience. It saves time for busy people who do not have enough time to cook at home. The food is served quickly and is available almost everywhere. Fast food gives Vietnamese people a chance to experience global cuisine and modern lifestyles. Moreover, fast-food restaurants offer fresh air, clean spaces where people, especially teenagers can eat, chat and study. This makes them not just eating places, but also social places that attract the younger generation.

However, fast food also has many drawbacks. One major problem is health. Many fast-food meals contain high levels of fat, sugar and salt which can lead to obesity, heart disease and other health issues if eaten too often. Another advantage is the cultural impact, this can cause a gradual loss of traditional eating habits and family meals, which are important parts of Vietnamese culture. Additionally, fast-food packaging often produces a lot of plastic waste, contributing to environmental pollution.

In conclusion, fast food in Vietnam has both advantages and disadvantages. It provides quick, tasty, and affordable meals that suit modern lifestyles, but it can also affect health, culture, and the environment. The best solution is balance, Vietnamese people—especially young generations—should enjoy fast food in moderation while continuing to value and preserve their traditional cuisine.

Moving from Hà Tĩnh to Ho Chi Minh City was a significant step for me. The city is much more fast-paced and crowded, but it's also full of opportunities. I'm still getting used to the lifestyle here, but I enjoy exploring different parts of the city during my free time.

In terms of my personality, I'm a pretty easy-going and friendly person. I value my friendships and enjoy spending time with my small circle of close friends. My hobbies are quite simple; I like listening to all kinds of music, playing football with friends as an amateur player, and occasionally watching movies. I'm not a perfectionist; I just focus on doing my best in my studies and daily life.

For now, my main goal is to adapt to university life, do well in my classes, and hopefully find a part-time job to gain some experience. My plan for the future is to graduate successfully and find a stable job that I like.

Vietnam is a country with many amazing cities, each with its own character and charm. The most famous ones are Hanoi, the capital, and Ho Chi Minh City, the biggest and most dynamic city in the South. Hanoi is known for its ancient temples, tree-lined streets, and quiet lakes that show the beauty of Vietnamese tradition. Walking around Hoan Kiem Lake or the Old Quarter, you can feel the soul of the past blending with modern life.

In contrast, Ho Chi Minh City is full of life and energy. The city never sleeps — there are always people working, shopping, or enjoying street food at any time of day. Skyscrapers stand next to old French buildings, showing the mix of history and progress. Life here is fast, but it’s also exciting and full of opportunities for young people.

Besides these two major cities, Vietnam also has many others worth visiting. Da Nang is famous for its beaches and friendly people, while Hue attracts visitors with its ancient palaces and peaceful atmosphere. Each city tells a different story about Vietnamese culture and the way people live and adapt to change.

In conclusion, these cities represent the heart of Vietnam — a country that respects its traditions but also looks forward to the future.

Every morning, the streets are filled with the smell of coffee and breakfast from small local shops. People go to the market to buy fresh vegetables, and the sound of motorbikes and birds makes the area feel alive. In the afternoon, children often play outside while adults sit together to talk and enjoy tea. Even though Bao Loc is not as large or busy as big cities like Da Lat or Ho Chi Minh City, it has its own charm with its relaxed pace of life.

To me, my neighbourhood is more than just a place to live. It is a warm, comfortable, and beautiful part of my life that gives me peace and happiness every day.

PHẠM NGỌC LINH

Vietnamese cuisine is characterized by balance and harmony. The combination of sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and spicy elements creates a unique taste that represents the philosophy of yin and yang. Each dish is carefully prepared to achieve both nutritional value and aesthetic appeal. Among the countless specialties, phở, bánh mì, and gỏi cuốn are the ones that best represent the spirit of Vietnamese food. Phở brings comfort with its rich broth and aromatic herbs, bánh mì shows the creative blend of Vietnamese and French influences, and gỏi cuốn reflects the country's emphasis on freshness and balance.

Personally, I enjoy cooking as much as I enjoy eating. Preparing a meal is a meditative process that allows me to slow down and connect with the present moment. It is also a way to show love and care for my family and friends. Whenever we share a meal together, the atmosphere becomes warmer and more intimate, as if the food itself is speaking a language of affection.

In recent years, I have also become more conscious about sustainable eating. I try to choose local ingredients, reduce food waste, and support small farmers whenever possible. I believe that what we eat not only affects our health but also the planet we live on. In that sense, food is not simply nourishment, it is an expression of responsibility, gratitude, and respect for life. After all, the way we eat mirrors the way we live, mindful, connected, and full of appreciation for every flavor the world has to offer.

The journey to university is also the time I have to leave my family to start living independently in a new city. In the beginning, I felt very lonely and sad because I had to be away from my family. However, after two months of independence, I feel that this is a very good city, offering many opportunities for the future and a place where I can develop various soft skills.

I would describe myself as a friendly, optimistic, and responsible person. I enjoy helping others and always try to create a positive atmosphere around me. I also love learning new things and improving myself every day. Although I can be a little shy at first, I quickly become comfortable when I get to know people better. I believe that being kind and open-minded helps me build good relationships with everyone.

Unlike big and crowded cities, Bao Loc has a slower and more relaxing lifestyle. The streets are clean, the air is fresh, and the people are friendly and kind. The city also has many beautiful spots such as Dambri Waterfall, Linh Quy Phap An Pagoda, and green tea hills that attract both local and foreign tourists.

To me, Bao Loc is not only a peaceful place to live but also a wonderful destination to enjoy nature and find inner calm.

Vietnam stretches from north to south, and each region has its own distinct culinary style. In the North, dishes are often mild and simple, focusing on the natural taste of ingredients. In the Central region, the food is spicier and beautifully presented, showing the influence of royal cuisine from Hue. In the South, people love sweet, rich, and colorful dishes, often using coconut milk and fresh tropical fruits.

Some of the most famous Vietnamese dishes are pho (noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), goi cuon (fresh spring rolls), and bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup). These dishes have become popular around the world because of their unique taste and freshness.

However, Vietnamese cuisine is more than just food — it is a part of daily life and a way to connect people. Sharing a meal is an expression of love, care, and togetherness. Whether you enjoy a bowl of pho on a busy street or a homemade meal with your family, you can always feel the warmth, generosity, and spirit of Vietnam in every bite.

I started learning to swim when I was a child, and since then, I have spent a lot of time practicing and improving my skills. Swimming not only strengthens my body but also helps me release stress after long hours of studying. Over the years, I have taken part in several swimming competitions and proudly won many medals. Those achievements motivate me to keep training hard and become even better.

Whenever I swim, I feel free and peaceful, as if all my worries disappear in the water. For me, swimming is not just a sport — it’s a passion that teaches me patience, discipline, and confidence. I hope I can continue this hobby for a long time because it truly makes me happy and proud of myself.

Personally, I want to become a teacher in the future. I like this profession because it is stable and allows me to help students learn and grow. Being a teacher is not only a job but also a way to make a positive impact on others’ lives. I enjoy sharing knowledge, guiding young people, and seeing them succeed. Teaching also requires patience, creativity, and good communication skills, which I believe are qualities I have or want to develop further.

Compared to other careers, I think teaching offers a unique combination of stability, respect, and personal fulfillment. I hope that by becoming a teacher, I can have a secure and satisfying life while doing something I truly love. Education shapes the future, and I want to be part of this meaningful work.

What I love most about my neighborhood is the sense of community. People here genuinely care for one another. The elderly sit outside to chat in the afternoon sun; children ride their bicycles through narrow alleys, laughing without a worry; and local shop owners greet you by name as you walk by. It is this everyday connection that turns simple streets into something meaningful — a shared home built on kindness and trust.

Over the years, my neighborhood has changed. New cafés and modern stores have appeared, and old houses have been replaced by tall buildings. Yet, beneath the layers of modernization, the heart of the community remains unchanged. We still celebrate Lunar New Year together, decorate our houses with lanterns, and share homemade dishes with neighbors during festivals. These traditions remind me that no matter how fast the city grows, the essence of belonging still endures.

Living here has taught me that a neighborhood is not defined by its architecture or convenience but by the people who breathe life into it. It is where memories are created, friendships are nurtured, and identities are formed.

In the end, a neighborhood is not just where we live, it is where our hearts learn the true meaning of home.

Reading, for me, is more than just an intellectual pursuit; it is a dialogue between the mind and the world. Every book opens a door to new ideas, cultures, and emotions that I might never encounter otherwise. It allows me to live a thousand lives and understand the complexity of human nature. Writing, on the other hand, is my way of reflecting on those experiences. When I write — whether it’s a short story, a journal entry, or a simple note — I feel that I can organize my thoughts, give form to emotions, and sometimes even discover parts of myself I didn’t know existed.

Music is another passion that deeply influences my mood and mindset. I listen to many genres, from classical to indie pop, depending on how I feel. Music helps me relax, focus, and even heal during stressful times. It reminds me that emotions are universal, transcending language and borders.

Beyond personal enjoyment, I see hobbies as a way of nurturing mindfulness. They teach me patience, creativity, and appreciation for the present moment. In a world that often moves too fast, hobbies remind me to slow down — to enjoy the process rather than just chase the outcome.

Ultimately, my hobbies are not mere pastimes; they are reflections of my inner world — the quiet spaces where I find meaning, inspiration, and the courage to keep growing.

One of the most popular places is Ben Thanh Market, where people can buy food, clothes, souvenirs, and many other things. There are also many historical sites such as the Independence Palace, the War Remnants Museum. These places help people learn more about Vietnam’s history and culture.

 From early morning until late at night, the streets are full of motorbikes, street vendors, and friendly people. The city is also known for its delicious street food, such as pho, banh mi, and spring rolls. Many people say that Saigon never sleeps because there is always something to do or see.

The people are open, hardworking, and welcoming to visitors. Ho Chi Minh City is a place where traditional Vietnamese culture meets modern life. It shows the energy, creativity and development of life. That is why many people love and feel proud of this city.

My name is Ma Phuong Nhu. Currently , I am an 18-year-old girl who lives in Ho Chi Minh City, one of the biggest and most vibrant cities in Vietnam. I am a first-year student at Sai Gon University, and it really excites me to begin this new phase of my life. University life is so different from high school; every day, I get to meet new people and learn new things from everyone.

I have many hobbies and interests. I am really into fashion and make-up because these are other ways to express my own personality and imagination. I like reading mangas, books, and cooking delicious foods for my family whenever I have free time. These are my other hobbies when I relax and feel happy.

People often say I am a friendly, hard-working person. I care about helping other people, and I always try my best in everything that I am doing. I want to be an accomplished and confident woman in the future who is able to work and live with passion. More than anything, I want to make my parents proud, to have a life that I can be happy with.

Hobbies also help us improve our skills and creativity. When we spend time doing something we love, we can learn and grow. A person who enjoys cooking can learn new recipes, while someone who likes music can practice and become more talented. These activities make us feel proud and confident.

Besides, hobbies are a great way to make friends. Joining clubs or groups with similar interests helps us meet new people and share experiences. Hobbies also teach us useful soft skills such as patience, teamwork, and time management.

Hobbies are necessary in life because they make our lives more meaningful and enjoyable. No matter how busy we are, we should always spend time for the activities we love. Doing what we love keeps our minds healthy, our hearts happy and our lives become meaningful.

Hanoi is the capital city located in Northern Vietnam. It has a reputation for its beautiful lakes, ancient temples, and peaceful Old Quarter. In this area, lifestyles are much slower and more traditional when compared to Saigon.

Other cities in Vietnam, such as Da Nang, Hue, and Can Tho, also carry an important role. Da Nang is famous for its clean beaches and modern environment. Hue is well-known for its historical palaces and royal culture. Can Tho is the center of the Mekong Delta, with life closely connected to rivers and floating markets.

Each city in Vietnam offers something special, making the country diverse and filled with charm.

In Ho Chi Minh City, where I live, people love eating out. You can find delicious dishes like banh mi, pho, com tam, or hu tieu almost anywhere. I really like the street food here because it’s tasty, cheap, and full of energy. Saigon people are friendly and sociable, so we often eat together, talk, and laugh while enjoying our meals.

In the north, especially in Hanoi, the food tastes lighter and more traditional, while the central region is known for its spicy and colorful dishes like bun bo Hue and mi Quang. No matter where you go, every meal in Vietnam has its own story.

For me, food is more than just something to eat — it’s a way to share love, culture, and happiness. Vietnamese food always makes me feel proud of my country.

Besides earning money, jobs help people develop skills and knowledge. For example, a teacher improves communication skills, a doctor learns new medical techniques, and a police officer protects people and maintains public safety by enforcing laws and preventing crime. Doing a job also gives people a sense of responsibility and discipline, which is important in life.

Jobs can also make life more meaningful and provide opportunities for personal growth. People can learn teamwork, time management, and problem-solving skills through their work. For example, a shop assistant learns to communicate with customers, and an office worker learns to organize tasks efficiently. These skills are useful in both work and personal life.

In conclusion, jobs are necessary for earning money, learning new skills, and helping society. Everyone should choose a job they like and work hard. A good job not only supports life but also brings happiness and satisfaction.

In the future, I want to work in business because I like planning, communicating, and creating new ideas. I think business is an exciting field where I can meet many people, learn from others, and challenge myself. I also want to start my own small business one day — maybe something related to fashion or makeup, because those are things I really love.

Nowadays, there are many kinds of jobs thanks to technology and social media. Many young people start online businesses or become content creators. I find that very inspiring because it shows that success can come from creativity and hard work.

For me, a good job is not just about money; it’s about doing something I enjoy and being proud of my own effort and growth.

Neighborhoods also affect children’s growth. In a safe and clean neighborhood, children can play outside, ride bicycles, and meet friends. They learn social skills and how to care for others. Adults also benefit because they can exercise, walk, or talk with neighbors. A strong neighborhood can support people during emergencies or problems.

Moreover, a good neighborhood keeps the environment clean and safe. People can organize activities like planting trees, cleaning streets, or celebrating festivals together. These activities make the community stronger and more enjoyable.

In conclusion, neighborhoods are important because they provide safety, support, and happiness. A good neighborhood makes life better for all people.

My neighborhood is very friendly and sociable. Most of the time, neighbors greet each other; sometimes they help each other, too. I am safe when I walk alone, and I like to see familiar faces every time I go to the market or the park. There are a few places with green areas where kids play and people exercise in the morning, so it gives the impression of a lively and healthy neighborhood.

I like living in a quiet neighborhood; it is tranquil, yet I am also within reach of a busy city center for shopping or meeting with my friends. I find this place relaxing and enjoyable to live in, and I like to be part of the community because people here really take care of each other. A good neighborhood is more than just a house; it is where one relates to people around him and enjoys his life.

I was born and raised in Ho Chi Minh City — a vibrant, fast-paced metropolis that has shaped my character in countless ways. Growing up in such a dynamic environment has taught me how to adapt to change, appreciate diversity, and value resilience. My family has always been a source of motivation for me. They have encouraged me to chase my goals with both determination and humility. Thanks to their support, I have learned to balance academic work with personal growth, focusing not only on results but also on the process of self-development.

In terms of hobbies, I am particularly passionate about reading, writing, and exploring different cultures. Literature helps me see life from new perspectives, while writing allows me to express ideas clearly and creatively. In addition, I love volunteering because it gives me a sense of purpose and reminds me that small acts of kindness can make a real difference in someone’s life.

Looking ahead, I hope to become a teacher of English who can inspire students to think critically, communicate effectively, and embrace cultural diversity. I believe education is not merely about transferring knowledge but also about shaping values and nurturing empathy. My long-term goal is to contribute to building a learning community where everyone feels respected, motivated, and capable of achieving their full potential.

The city has this incredible energy that just doesn't quit. During the day, District 1 is all business with its shiny skyscrapers, but tucked right behind them are these ancient, beautiful French colonial buildings, their yellow walls slowly aging. And the food? Don't even get me started. The real magic isn't in the fancy restaurants; it's on the sidewalks. You grab a tiny plastic stool, order a bowl of phở or a bánh mì from a street vendor, and that's where you taste the real soul of the city.

But for me, the city truly comes alive after the sun goes down. The heat lets up a little, and everyone seems to spill out onto the streets. The night markets light up, friends gather at open-air beer halls called bia hoi to drink cheap, fresh beer, and the buzz of conversation and laughter fills the air.

It's a city of contrasts. It's fast and slow at the same time. It can feel overwhelming, but then you find a quiet moment in a hidden temple or over a cup of strong iced coffee, and you just get it. It's not a city that tries to impress you; it just pulls you in and lets you experience it, all at once.

For me, pho isn’t just food — it’s a memory. It reminds me of peaceful mornings, my mom’s love, and the comforting feeling of home. Even when I travel, whenever I see pho on a menu, it feels like a warm hug from my country

I listen to all kinds of music, but there’s something about slow, emotional songs that hits me the most. They remind me of quiet nights, long walks, and people I used to care about. Sometimes, I don’t even focus on the lyrics; I just let the melody sink in and carry my thoughts somewhere far away.

What I love most about music is that it connects people without needing words. Two strangers can listen to the same song and somehow understand each other. That’s beautiful, isn’t it?

To me, music isn’t just a hobby — it’s a friend that never leaves, no matter what mood I’m in.

As for me, my dream job is to become a teacher. I’ve always admired teachers for their patience and dedication. They don’t just teach lessons — they shape how students think and help them become better people. When I was younger, I had an English teacher who inspired me a lot. She made learning feel fun and meaningful, and since then, I’ve dreamed of doing the same for others.

I know being a teacher isn’t easy — it takes hard work, empathy, and passion — but I believe it’s worth it. The idea of helping students grow and seeing their progress day by day really motivates me. For me, teaching isn’t just a job; it’s something I was born to do

What I like most is the atmosphere. Everyone knows each other, so it feels safe and familiar. In the evening, old people often sit outside and talk while children play around. It is such a simple scene, but it always gives me a warm sense of community.

There is also a small cafe near my house where I usually spend time studying or reading. The owner is very kind and the smell of coffee always makes me feel relaxed.

Although my neighborhood is not very modern or luxurious, it feels like home to me. It is peaceful, friendly, and full of good memories