Martinez Vega, a 45-year-old man from Cuba, has been living in Vietnam for a decade. To him, the country is not only beautiful and peaceful - it’s the place he’s chosen to call home for the long run.

His commitment to Vietnam became even stronger after meeting Tran Thi Yen Nhi, a young woman from Can Tho. The couple met in 2022 and officially tied the knot in 2024.

Since then, Martinez and Yen Nhi have been happily married for a year.

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Martinez and Yen Nhi have been married for a year. Screenshot from video.

His mother-in-law, Tran Thi Nguyet Le, 53, also from Can Tho, has been an important part of their story. Their evolving relationship - marked by surprise, warmth, and affection - offers a candid glimpse into the blending of two cultures.

“I wasn’t too sure about him at first,” Le recalled with a laugh. “When Nhi brought him to meet us, we were in Ho Chi Minh City. He had tattoos, and I’ve never liked tattoos. I used to think they made a person look aggressive.”

But over time, her opinion changed.

“As I got to know him, I realized he was gentle and even a bit pitiful. He was nothing like his appearance suggested.”

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Le with her granddaughter, daughter of Martinez and Yen Nhi. Screenshot from video.

Martinez was aware of her hesitant gaze during that first meeting. He sensed the skepticism in her eyes, but he wasn't offended.

He understood she was a traditional woman, and that trust would take time to build.

Since that encounter, Martinez has slowly won over Yen Nhi’s family - especially her mother - through his genuine affection and respect.

Eventually, the couple celebrated their wedding in a joyful ceremony that honored Vietnamese traditions, surrounded by both families' blessings.

As they spent more time together, Le became increasingly fond of her foreign son-in-law. She appreciated how quickly he embraced Vietnamese culture, especially the warmth and customs of the Mekong Delta.

Martinez has grown deeply attached to Vietnam. He enjoys traveling to scenic destinations like Sa Pa, Da Lat, and the various landscapes of the southern provinces.

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The Cuban man is happy to be part of a family in the Mekong Delta. Screenshot from video.

Even when his wife suggested a visit to Cuba or other countries, he showed little interest. His heart, he says, belongs to the peaceful charm of Vietnam.

He’s also passionate about Vietnamese cuisine. Favorites include bún (rice noodle dishes), phở, and fried rice - dishes that now fill their family table with warmth and joy, making every meal a bridge between cultures.

Although a language barrier exists, Le still feels the depth of her son-in-law’s care and sincerity. What impresses her most is how he consistently treats her daughter with love and patience.

“I’m very pleased with him,” Le said. “Whenever they visit, he greets everyone respectfully. The neighbors all like him. Some say, ‘He looks tough, but he’s actually a sweetheart.’”

For Martinez, the feeling is mutual.

He sees Le as a second mother, someone he deeply respects and holds dear.

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Mr. Hung deeply cherishes his foreign son-in-law. Screenshot from video.

Whenever he visits Can Tho, Le prepares meals tailored to his taste. She even cooks extra portions, freezes them, and sends them to him in Ho Chi Minh City.

“She’s the best. Number one,” Martinez said proudly.

Le’s husband, Mr. Hung, had a different first impression.

Unlike his wife, Hung immediately took a liking to Martinez. Even during their brief first meeting, he recognized the Cuban man’s kindness and humility.

“I supported their relationship early on,” Hung shared. “He’s thoughtful and caring, even though he doesn’t speak Vietnamese.”

Whenever Hung has to travel to Ho Chi Minh City for medical appointments, Martinez is right there - offering an arm for support and guiding him gently.

Yen Nhi is the couple’s only child. Knowing that she found someone who treasures and understands her brings both parents great happiness.

“My child’s happiness is my happiness,” said Hung. “I told Nhi, ‘Tell your husband not to feel like a guest here. This is your home, too. This family is bound by love.’”

Thanh Minh