A Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year’s Eve in Vietnam

Having visited, grown fond of, and ultimately chosen to stay in Vietnam in pursuit of their educational careers, RT Holdings’ Expat Teachers have surely created many cherished memories in this “S-shaped country”. On the occasion of Christmas and the New Year 2026, let us take a moment to listen to their engaging stories as they enjoy the winter holiday in Vietnam.

Mr. Daniel Garcia

Teacher at WASS

“For 15 years, Vietnam has been the backdrop of all my Christmases, each one leaving me with treasured memories. I think of Dalat, cold and misty, where I sat by the fireplace of an Italian restaurant or gazed at mountains through a window. I think of Saigon, unusually quiet, as if Tet had arrived early, and of pretending that 27 degrees was cold enough for a Christmas sweater. I think of the heavy traffic on the way to the city center. I think of video calls with my family, watching time slip by, and loved ones grow older. I think of homemade meals, the warmth, and the love of my small family. And I think of the truth that love should be expressed every day, not just at Christmas. Merry Christmas to all!”

Mr. Philipp Fiasst

Head of ELA & Social Studies at PennSchool

“Back home, Christmas is probably the biggest celebration of the year. In Vietnam, the main celebration is usually Tết (Lunar New Year), so Christmas feels more like a cozy, festive season rather than a major national holiday. Over the past few years, I’ve really loved spending the festive days in Đà Lạt because the cooler weather and misty mornings feel the closest to home and instantly put me in a Christmas mood. I also enjoy the lights and decorations around the city, meeting friends for a warm meal, and calling my family back home to catch up. This year, we’re keeping it simple—staying in the city, slowing down, and enjoying some quiet time together at home with our cats. Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year!”

Mr. Maquizo Louweben Garay 

ICT Teacher at PennSchool

“As a teacher from the Philippines who has been living and working in Vietnam for almost three years, celebrating Christmas and New Year here has been a truly memorable experience for me. Back home, the holiday season is very festive and family-centered, so spending it abroad was initially a big adjustment. However, Vietnam has given me a different but equally meaningful way to celebrate.

One of my most memorable experiences is seeing how the streets and malls in Vietnam come alive with beautiful lights, decorations, and a joyful atmosphere during Christmas, even though it is not a traditional holiday here. Celebrating with fellow teachers and colleagues has made the season special, as we share food, stories, and traditions from our home countries. It truly feels like a multicultural family coming together.

For the New Year, I enjoy the calm and reflective atmosphere, taking time to rest and appreciate the year that has passed. This winter holiday, I plan to stay in Vietnam, explore local places, and enjoy Vietnamese food while also keeping my Filipino traditions alive by connecting with family online and preparing simple holiday dishes.

Being able to celebrate the holidays in Vietnam has taught me the value of cultural exchange, gratitude, and finding joy wherever you are. It has made my experience as an expat teacher even more enriching and unforgettable.”

Mr. Aaron Richard Landon
Primary School Teacher at SISS

“Celebrating Christmas and New Year in Vietnam has been a truly memorable and meaningful experience for me. Although it is quite different from the cold, snowy winters in my home country, Vietnam offers its own unique charm during the festive season.

I especially enjoy how Christmas here is filled with lights, music, and a warm sense of togetherness. Walking through the city streets decorated with Christmas trees, visiting cafés with festive themes, and sharing meals with colleagues and friends always makes me feel welcomed and connected. The warm weather also allows for outdoor gatherings, which is something I really appreciate.

This year, I plan to spend my winter holiday exploring more local traditions, enjoying Vietnamese food, and taking some short trips within the country. Being in Vietnam during this time reminds me that the spirit of Christmas and New Year is not about the weather, but about sharing joy, gratitude, and meaningful moments with others.”

Mr. Robinson Jr. Aucila Rubio

HSIE Teacher at SISS

“As the Yuletide season finally comes to town, I am looking forward to celebrating Christmas with my loved one in a warm and meaningful way. We plan to enjoy a simple dinner together, sharing food, stories, and laughter. After that, we hope to spend a peaceful staycation in Mui Ne, taking time to rest, appreciate the quiet moments, and enjoy each other’s company away from the usual busyness of life. 

Even with these gentle and joyful plans, I know that prayers and the celebration of Christ’s birth will always remain at the very center of the season. Christmas is not only about the places we visit or the activities we do, but about remembering the love, hope, and faith that this special day brings.”

Ms. Seviliia Akhmetzianova

Preschool Teacher at WASS Kindergarten

“Christmas in Vietnam has its own special charm, and last year my husband and I experienced it in the most memorable way. We were invited to a beautiful wedding in Dalat, a city known for its cool mountain air and peaceful scenery. It became the perfect place to spend both Christmas and New Year.

During our stay, we travelled around the city, enjoyed café hopping, and soaked in the chill weather that created a surprisingly cozy Christmas atmosphere. On Christmas Eve, we booked a small house surrounded by nature, where we prepared a barbecue and invited a few friends and colleagues to celebrate together.

The evening felt warm and authentic, especially with traditional Vietnamese dishes like Cơm Lam—sticky rice cooked in bamboo. Celebrating Christmas this way was a lovely blend of Vietnamese culture, friendship, and holiday spirit, making it one of our most unforgettable festive seasons.”

Ms. Selene Denman

Kindergarten Teacher at WASS Kindergarten

‘Tis the season to be jolly, and jolly indeed I am as I get to spend precious time with my family and relatives. Living and working in a different country, I consider myself one of the lucky ones who is able to bring my whole family to Vietnam. The cherry on top is when relatives come to visit us for Christmas. This year, my dad and my aunt graced us with their presence. 

We have been doing all the touristy things that Ho Chi Minh City has to offer. Eating phở or bún bò, Vietnamese noodles enjoyed on the sidewalk. Having Vietnamese spring rolls and fresh juice at the market. Even trying fish sauce ice cream, which we highly recommend if you have an adventurous palate. Of course, there are also people- and traffic-watching while sipping rich Vietnamese coffee.

Who can forget shopping at Ben Thanh Market, dealing with the occasional rude shopkeeper, but also finding kind ones who give fair prices and can produce clothes within 24 hours. To cap off the full tourist experience, we hopped on a double-decker bus and admired the city lights. Riding along the colourful Ba Son Bridge, passing the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, glowing with warm lights, and looking up in awe at the grandeur of Landmark 81.

Bellies full from eating too much, legs tired from walking, arms exhausted from taking photos, and most importantly, hearts full of memories we will treasure forever. Time is fleeting, and it reminds us that it is best spent with the people we love.

Merry Christmas, everyone!”