Favorite café?
Runam.
Runam is more than just a café. It’s a sanctuary for the soul, a lullaby of emotions, where time seems to pause amid a French-inspired classical setting. Every chair, every hanging light, every flower vase, every decorative touch speaks the language of elegance. It’s the kind of place that gently holds onto dreamers – those seeking a bit of poetry in the rush of life.
Favorite place in Hanoi?
Hoàn Kiếm Lake in the late afternoon—when the golden light of sunset gently kisses the still water, lending it a sacred, mysterious, and utterly captivating beauty.
A “soulmate” dish?
Japanese food – light, simple, yet somehow full of identity. No need for heavy frying or elaborate presentation. Just a perfectly sliced piece of fish, the right soy sauce, and the natural flavor shines through. Red meat was never the top choice. Fish and seafood – gifts from the sea – seem to suit not only Hắn’s palate but also Hắn’s gentle exterior and quiet inner current.
Favorite bookstore?
Hải An.
Stepping inside feels like diving into an ocean of knowledge. The scent of fresh paper, soft music, gentle lighting – everything is arranged just right, helping people forget time. The owner generously dedicates a whole staircase area as a free reading zone, welcoming soul wanderers to stay as long as they like. It’s the kind of bookstore where anyone could spend an entire day.
Favorite sport?
Yoga. In the rhythm of even breaths and slow, deliberate movements, Hắn finds the connection between body – mind – spirit, allowing Hắn to listen within. Yoga is the silent strength of the inner self. It’s flexibility, meditation, and willpower wrapped in a slender frame.
Favorite market in Saigon?
Hồ Thị Kỷ Flower Market.
A vibrant paradise of blooms. Sellers and buyers brush shoulders; voices mingle with the scent of fresh flowers and the rhythm of everyday hustle. Hắn enjoys watching the swift hands arranging bouquets, the eyes carefully selecting each stem. Among the riot of colors lies a beauty so simple, so real – it’s unmatched.
Favorite number?
Two. Not for mathematical reasons, but for what it means. In life, we don’t always need a crowd. Sometimes, just one person is enough—someone who understands, who cares, and who walks beside you through both the light and the dark. One person can be enough.
Favorite autobiography?
“Undisputed Truth” by Mike Tyson.
Loved the Vietnamese translation by Trần Minh – perfectly captured that “Iron Mike” essence.
Favorite legal series?
Better Call Saul.
Most beloved international city?
Sydney.
A city that feels like a symphony hall – elegant and refined, where life and art exist in harmony. Where waves gently lap at the harbor, cruise ships glide like paintings come to life, and the Opera House blooms like an architectural flower at the city’s heart.
The most romantic place in Vietnam you want to visit?
Đà Lạt.
There’s something irresistible about the crisp air, the endless flowers, and the poetic charm of its people. The “Crazy House” with its wild architecture attracts waves of international tourists. Peaceful Xuân Hương Lake, with couples paddling swan boats in the morning and late afternoon, feels like a living painting. Pine forests tower endlessly – a miniature Europe, a little Paris.
Near Đà Lạt market, nestled on a hillside, there’s a cozy little bar. Locals and travelers alike gather here. Though the upper floor is small, it’s warm and intimate. Strangers greet each other like old friends. Young Đà Lạt locals wear stylish, layered outfits, with quirky beanies – there’s a certain chill in both the atmosphere and the fashion.
Another spot, B21, offers live music and a buzzing DJ scene – not quite like the party vibes in Hanoi or Saigon. Though still energetic and full of character, there’s something uniquely romantic, alluring, and gentle about it.
(This part runs a little long – Hắn’s clearly got a deep love for Đà Lạt.)
Excerpt from “Hắn and the Untold Things” – CVSS Ha Kim
Saigon, 2025
