Despite her initial reluctance to remarry after her husband's untimely death, Xuan found love and companionship with Bertrand, proving that happiness can come at any stage of life.

At 23, Nguyen Thi Xuan (born in 1980, Yen Bai Province) became a widow after her husband died in a work accident. The couple had been married for four years and had a young son. After her husband’s death, Xuan moved back to her mother’s house, worried about her future, especially when her brother would start his own family.

To make ends meet, Xuan worked tirelessly, doing farm work and taking up cleaning jobs in hotels in Sa Pa, Lao Cai. Though life was challenging, she managed to save enough to support her son and plan for their future.

Before passing away, Xuan's father encouraged her to remarry, fearing she would be alone in her later years. Xuan promised to consider it, but her initial encounters with potential partners were disappointing, leaving her feeling disheartened.

In 2017, while working in Hanoi, Xuan discovered a dating app for foreigners. Curious, she signed up and connected with Bertrand Le Garrec, a retired sea captain from France. After exchanging messages, Bertrand visited Vietnam, and the pair met in a cafe in Hanoi. Their relationship blossomed, and after several meetings, they began dating.

Bertrand was drawn to Xuan's sincerity and hardworking nature. He proposed they travel together, offering to pay her for her time as a tour guide. During their trip, they grew closer and eventually decided to marry.

Xuan was initially hesitant to introduce Bertrand to her family, but her son reassured her, encouraging her to follow her heart. Bertrand's visit to Xuan’s family in Yen Bai was a success, as he adapted well to village life and bonded with her relatives.

The couple married in March 2021, with Bertrand selling his home in France to settle in Vietnam. They moved to Mu Cang Chai, Yen Bai, where they built a home and started a homestay business, enjoying the tranquility of the Northwest mountains.

Bertrand embraced Vietnamese culture, learning the language and participating in family traditions. He even joins Xuan in visiting her late husband's grave, showing respect and care for her past.

Xuan feels blessed to have found a loving and caring partner in Bertrand. Despite the challenges, their love story proves that happiness can be found again, even after loss. Bertrand’s commitment and affection have brought joy and contentment to Xuan’s life, fulfilling her wish for a peaceful and harmonious marriage.