From Morocco to Hanoi: Man’s Culinary Journey Reveals Vietnam as More Than Just a Destination
HANOI, Vietnam – In a heartwarming story resonating across Vietnam and gaining international attention, Hamza Smahi, a man originally from Morocco, is captivating the nation with his deep appreciation for Vietnamese culture, particularly its vibrant food scene. This isn’t just another travel story; it’s a testament to the power of food to build bridges and foster a sense of belonging, a narrative perfectly timed for the growing interest in Southeast Asian travel and digital nomad lifestyles. This breaking news highlights a unique cultural exchange and the increasing appeal of Vietnam as a global hub.
A Chance Encounter, A Lasting Love Affair
Hamza’s journey began in 2018 when he met his Vietnamese wife. In March 2023, he arrived in Hanoi, her hometown, initially planning a short stay. However, the city quickly worked its magic. “Before I came here, I thought Vietnam was a country with a peaceful and long history. But after settling here, I realized that it is a vibrant, energetic and joyful place,” Hamza shared in an interview with VietNamNet. He describes Vietnam not merely as a place to live, but as a place to truly belong – a sentiment that’s striking a chord with Vietnamese citizens and expats alike.
From First Bite to Viral Sensation: The Rise of a Vietnamese Foodie
The turning point? A simple bowl of noodles. Hamza recalls falling “in love” with Vietnamese food on his first day, during a walk through Hanoi’s bustling alleyways. This initial spark ignited a passion that led him to document his culinary explorations on TikTok and YouTube, starting in February 2025. His channel quickly gained traction, now boasting nearly 100 videos showcasing Hanoi’s diverse cuisine and authentic Vietnamese recipes.
Despite primarily speaking English and Moroccan Arabic, Hamza’s genuine enthusiasm, dedication, and approachable personality have resonated deeply with Vietnamese viewers. He’s currently tackling a challenge to discover and document 50 delicious dishes in Hanoi, from classics like banh cuon and pho to lesser-known delicacies like bun daum tom and red jellyfish salad.
More Than Just Recipes: A Deep Dive into Vietnamese Culinary Philosophy
Hamza isn’t just learning to cook; he’s immersing himself in the philosophy behind Vietnamese cuisine. He actively seeks knowledge from chefs, market vendors, and his wife, meticulously studying techniques and ingredient combinations. He’s discovered that Vietnamese home cooking emphasizes balance – a main dish, soup, vegetables, and a dipping sauce – creating a harmonious and emotionally satisfying meal.
“Cooking has taught me patience and meticulousness, and the importance of every ingredient, even if it’s just a handful of herbs,” Hamza explains. His video demonstrating how to cook fish in tomato sauce, fried tofu, boiled cabbage, and stir-fried bitter melon with eggs has already garnered over 500,000 views, a testament to his growing popularity.
The Spring Roll Struggle & The Power of Connection
Even mastering seemingly simple dishes presented challenges. Hamza candidly admits that spring rolls were his biggest hurdle. “I watched a lot of Vietnamese language course videos online… and I tried it several times. The spring rolls were torn and not crispy at times, but I kept repeating them.” His perseverance and willingness to learn have earned him praise from Vietnamese viewers, who admire his dedication and genuine appreciation for their culture. Messages like, “This foreigner is good at cooking rice like Vietnamese people,” reinforce his feeling of acceptance and belonging.
Exploring Vietnam, One Dish at a Time
Hamza’s journey extends beyond Hanoi. He’s traveling throughout Vietnam, exploring regional cuisines and uncovering the stories behind each dish. He believes that every meal tells a tale of the land, memories, and emotions. “Vietnamese cooking taught me how to slow down and enjoy every moment. I don’t just cook Vietnamese food, I experience it every day.”
Hamza’s story is a powerful reminder that travel is about more than just seeing new places; it’s about connecting with people, embracing new cultures, and finding a sense of belonging. His culinary adventures are not only enriching his own life but are also fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for Vietnamese culture among a global audience. As he continues to explore and share his experiences, Hamza Smahi is becoming a true ambassador for Vietnam, proving that the best journeys are often those that lead us to unexpected homes.
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