Nhi Mai, A Third Culture Kid's Journey
"Vietnam is 20, 30 years behind most countries. So being here right now, though, and watching it catch up so quickly is just really, really exciting."
Niall Mackay reconnects with Nhi Mai, a former guest who moved to Vietnam in 2019 to discover her heritage. Nhi, a third-culture kid born to Vietnamese immigrants in Switzerland, shares her experiences of living in Vietnam for three years and her decision to return to Switzerland during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The conversation explores the stark contrasts between life in Vietnam and Switzerland, from the bustling nightlife and constant changes in Saigon to the structured, slower-paced lifestyle in Switzerland. Nhi reflects on her parents' initial concerns about her move to Vietnam and how her experiences helped bridge the gap between generations. The episode also touches on the challenges of reverse culture shock and the unexpected ways in which Vietnam has modernized compared to some European countries.
Key Takeaways:
- Nhi's motivation for moving to Vietnam and her decision to leave
- The surprising aspects of life in Vietnam compared to preconceptions
- How Nhi's parents' perspective on Vietnam changed through her experiences
- Nhi's process of deciding to move back to Switzerland
- Comparison of social life and pace between Vietnam and Switzerland
Chapters and Timestamps:
00:02:20 - Nhi's journey to and from Vietnam
00:05:50 - Third culture kid experiences
00:09:50 - Surprising aspects of life in Vietnam
00:15:00 - Parents' changing perspectives
00:17:40 - The pandemic's impact on Vietnam
00:21:30 - Decision to return to Switzerland
00:24:40 - Cultural differences between Vietnam and Switzerland
00:27:10 - Comparing lifestyles: Vietnam vs Switzerland
00:29:50 - What Nhi misses most about Vietnam
Episode Sponsors:
7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!
Tenzing Pacific - I highly recommend them for their professional advice related to personal, family, and business insurance.
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