Maysaa waiting to watch the parade rehearsal in HCM City on April 27.
On the evening of April 26, after enjoying a dazzling fireworks display and drone show at Bach Dang Wharf, Maysaa lingered around Le Duan Street to secure a spot for the grand rehearsal of the military parade set to take place on the morning of April 27.
Although her hotel was not far from Le Duan Street, she decided to stay up all night to secure her place, fearing the massive crowds expected in the morning.
Many attendees recognised Maysaa during the parade rehearsal, thanks to her popular TikTok channel, which has over 1.2 million followers. On this channel, she shares insights into Vietnamese culture, cuisine, and daily life.
"After the rehearsal, I was quite tired from staying up all night, but it was truly worth it," she said. "Everyone witnessed a serious, grand preparation that filled us with indescribable happiness."
Not missing a special moment for the Vietnamese people
Having previously visited HCM City several times, Maysaa found this trip particularly meaningful. She observed the rehearsal process of various groups and experienced the excitement.
Speaking with Dantri reporters, Maysaa shared that she had planned her trip months specifically to coincide with the parade on April 30.
"I understand this is a major, highly significant event for Vietnam, and I couldn't miss it," she said.
Wearing a traditional dress and waving both the Vietnamese and Lao flags, Maysaa mingled with the crowds, following every step of the marching formations. The generosity, friendliness, and hospitality of the people in HCM City left a strong impression on her.
According to Maysaa, what touched her most over the past few days was the patriotic spirit and solidarity of the Vietnamese people. Despite the sweltering heat and massive crowds, people remained orderly, sharing water and hand fans.
"I was especially moved hearing about a veteran in his seventies who rode his motorbike from Nghe An province to HCM City to watch the parade," she recalled. "Together, everyone created a truly admirable atmosphere."
Throughout the rehearsal, Maysaa and the crowd offered constant applause as each group marched past.
Adding to her emotions, military units from Laos, China, and Cambodia also participated in the parade.
"Vietnam and Laos are not just neighbouring countries; we are brothers and comrades," Maysaa said. "I was emotional when I saw the Lao military contingent marching past the grandstand."
Maysaa poses for a photo with some military officers following the parade rehearsal.
In addition to the parade, Maysaa visited local landmarks and historic sites and sampled Vietnamese cuisine.
Nurturing the Vietnam-Laos friendship
Before moving to Vietnam for her studies, Maysaa had already learned about the shared history and close friendship between Vietnam and Laos.
After graduating from high school in 2020, she chose to pursue higher education in Vietnam, recognising the country's rapid development.
At 23, Maysaa graduated with a degree in Economics from the Quang Ninh University of Industry. After a brief return to Laos, she returned to Vietnam to pursue a master's in business administration at the National Economics University.
"I'm not sure yet whether I will continue living in Vietnam or return to Laos in the future," she said. "But wherever I go, I am committed to contributing to the friendship between our two countries and supporting the development of our nations."