Their story began with a chance encounter on a dating app and grew into a love that overcame cultural and religious differences.
Sam experienced what he calls “love at first sight” the moment he met a woman from Hanoi. Calm and composed by nature, the Pakistani man didn’t hesitate once he realized he had found the love of his life - he pursued her with unshakable speed and intention.
From heartbreak to hope
Phuong Linh, born in 1988 in Hanoi, and Sam, her Pakistani husband born the same year, crossed paths after both had endured long, unfulfilled relationships.
At 37, with their hearts marked by past love and loss, both were hoping for something real - a partner with shared intentions and emotional maturity. For them, seriousness and clarity were non-negotiable. They weren’t dating to date - they were looking for a life partner.
They met in early 2025 through a dating app. After some time talking on the phone, the two decided to meet in person.
The couple found love and commitment shortly after meeting.
“I met Sam on an extremely hot day in Hanoi,” Linh recalled with a laugh. “I had just returned from a trip to Indonesia, a Muslim-majority country, and suddenly, there I was, face-to-face with a Muslim man.”
From that very first encounter, Sam was smitten. His actions spoke louder than words - he found ways to see her every day, quickly involving himself in Linh’s life and family.
Not long after they met, he was already offering to drive Linh and her mother to her hometown to visit her grandparents. When Linh’s father had surgery, Sam rushed to the hospital to visit.
“One small gesture from him truly moved me,” she said. “Before shaking my father’s hand, he pressed his own hand to his cheek to warm it up, so it wouldn’t feel cold. In that moment, I knew he was someone who would make a caring husband and a family man.”
From then on, he treated her family like his own. Whenever Linh’s family needed to go somewhere, Sam would make time to drive them. She saw in him a man of responsibility - someone she could count on.
The comfort of shared values
A deep emotional connection brought them closer and strengthened their bond.
The couple held an Islamic wedding ceremony in Hanoi in November 2025.
Though she had never dated a Muslim man before and didn’t know much about Islam, Linh never felt pressured. Sam didn’t impose anything. Instead, he gave her space to get familiar with his culture at her own pace, with warmth and kindness.
Her parents, too, were supportive. From the early days of the relationship, they followed the couple’s journey and gave their blessing.
Linh hasn’t had the chance to visit Sam’s family in Pakistan yet, but through warm video calls and heartfelt conversations, she knows she is welcomed and loved.
A wedding of traditions
In November 2025, the couple held a Nikah ceremony - an Islamic wedding - in Hanoi. They plan to hold another celebration in Pakistan after Lunar New Year 2026, followed by a second reception in Vietnam to share their joy with extended family and friends.
Today, the couple live in Hanoi. Linh runs a business in the beauty industry, while Sam teaches English and manages his own business.
Now living together, Sam took the initiative to talk with Linh about how they would build a home - including raising children and cultivating family values - in the spirit of Islam.
Rather than finding these principles restrictive, Linh grew to appreciate them. Through observing her husband’s daily habits and how he treats others, she recognized the discipline, consistency, and ethical framework that shaped his life.
She chose to engage with it gradually, learning what felt right and applying it in ways that enriched their shared life.
“My husband doesn’t drink, he respects women, and he’s always kind. I want to uphold those values too - placing family first, loving others, and finding peace within,” she said.
A gentle integration
The couple enjoy a happy and fulfilling marriage. Provided by the characters.
Before marriage, Linh favored modern, vibrant fashion. After tying the knot, she chose to dress more modestly - not out of obligation, but as a gesture of respect for her husband’s culture and the life they now shared.
In time, she also began wearing the Hijab - a traditional Muslim headscarf - when going out.
“In the beginning, it would take me half an hour to figure out how to wrap it,” she said, smiling. “Now I’m used to it. It only takes a few minutes.”
Linh also adapted her cooking to fit their family’s needs. She simplified the menu, choosing easy, wholesome dishes that reflected both her culinary style and her husband’s cultural background.
Despite their religious differences, Linh found deep compatibility between them. They both value family, love deeply, and respect one another completely.
Sam’s younger brother also lives and works in Vietnam. Linh treats him like her own sibling, showing affection and care without reservation.
Married life - like best friends
“Our marriage has found its rhythm,” Linh said. “Looking back, I feel incredibly lucky. I didn’t get married when I was young, but I met someone whose personality and soul align with mine.”
They enjoy traveling, trying new foods, going on walks, and camping together. More than husband and wife, they feel like best friends - and that, Linh believes, is the heart of their happiness.
“I feel so blessed,” she said. “And I know Sam feels the same.”
Vietnamnet.vn
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