LanLe: “We are going to be with some close friends by fireworks on the coast”

For LanLe, who comes from Vietnam, this first New Year on the island reflects both continuity and change—less about nostalgia, more about accepting a new rhythm of life.

The festive season, she explains, already feels different from past celebrations. “The feeling and the approach of this event is really different due to the situation, but also the weather!” Christmas, in particular, has taken on a more intimate tone. “For Christmas, it was more like a closed friend’s event, with more flexibility regarding the menu… But it remained a warm moment of sharing with people.” 

New Year’s Eve, however, leans naturally toward the outdoors. “For New Year, it will be quite similar as it will be more a friend event. So, we celebrate it with some friends in public places, and look at some nice and noisy fireworks during the night.”

Distance inevitably reshapes relationships. “What we ‘could’ miss is some old loyal friends, with who we cannot celebrate when in Mauritius, due to distance and time shift.” Staying connected remains possible, if imperfect. “Even if you can now easily reach them by phone, WhatsApp etc…”

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Unlike others who recreate familiar rituals, LanLe sees expatriation as a clean slate. “If considering that expatriation place is the new home, you need to celebrate the New Year in the new place, like it is your home place.” Contact with family and friends abroad adapts to circumstances she believes. “Depending on the network, it will be either videocalls or SMS. During the night or during the following day.”

For her, the sense of belonging comes with time and reflection. “You need to look back after one year and look at the social and professional situation. And realize that yes, I am where I want to be’.” New Year’s Eve itself will be shared simply. “We are going to be with some close friends by fireworks on the coast, a special moment you cannot live everywhere.”

Celebrating the year’s end in summer season remains one of the most striking contrasts for her. “You realise that the end of year doesn’t necessarily mean cold temperature and heavy clothes!” On the island, fireworks have become the defining symbol of the transition. “I think that the fireworks made by hotels, restaurants and public, on the coast… is one of the most iconic.”

Indeed, this year, the coast will once again be the focal point. For LanLe, the experience is shaped as much by people as by place. “The mix really adds something more to the celebration… the mix of origins and cultures, that join on this special moment.”

Some traditions remain universal. “The final countdown, the hugs and wishes,” utters LanLe. Others emerge naturally from the setting. “Be on the coastal, in the middle of a crowd of local and probably expat people, the eyes looking at the sky and enjoy the fireworks.” Public beaches, she says, have become the new gathering space.

Starting a New Year on the island carries symbolic weight. “This represents a beginning and an achievement. We made a choice, and to celebrate this moment here means that it was the good choice.” Looking ahead, her focus is clear. “Improve our integration and acceptance, in a country of mixed origins that you must respect and try to understand.”

The island, she adds, has already delivered an important lesson—one she believes applies to any expatriate journey. “Make yourself at home, but don’t forget you’re in our house!’ The island welcomes you, but respect her, respect the inhabitants, culture and differences.”