Vietnam

🇻🇳 Vietnam – Culture, History & Natural Wonders

Theme: Mindfulness, Heritage & Discovery
Duration: 5 Days

Learning Objectives

This enriching educational tour of Vietnam combines mindfulness practices, historical reflection, and cultural immersion. Students will engage in local traditions, explore Vietnamese history and political evolution, and witness the natural beauty of Halong Bay, while participating in unique learning activities designed to foster global awareness and appreciation for Southeast Asian culture.

Activities

▪ Tai Chi Session on the Sundeck
Begin the day with a serene Tai Chi session aboard a cruise, set against the backdrop of Halong Bay. Students learn about the philosophy of balance, breathwork, and mindfulness in Vietnamese culture.

▪ Water Puppet Show – Traditional Vietnamese Theatre
Experience the charm of a centuries-old art form where puppets dance over water. Students gain insight into Vietnamese folklore, storytelling, and rural life through this vibrant cultural performance.

▪ Cycling Through the Old Quarter
A guided cycle tour through Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter, where students explore narrow streets named after traditional trades. This activity encourages active observation, interaction with locals, and cultural mapping.

▪ Historic Sites Tour: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda & Temple of Literature
Students discover the life and legacy of Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam’s revolutionary leader. The tour includes:

• The Mausoleum – a powerful symbol of Vietnam’s modern history

• One Pillar Pagoda – a unique Buddhist structure symbolizing purity

• Temple of Literature – Vietnam’s first national university, a hub of Confucian learning

▪ Visit to Hoa Lo Prison & Hoan Kiem Lake
Explore the infamous “Hanoi Hilton” prison, offering stark lessons in colonial and war-era history, followed by a reflective walk at Hoan Kiem Lake, learning about local legends and community life.

▪ Cruise in Halong Bay – Natural Exploration
An unforgettable boat journey through Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its limestone karsts and emerald waters. Students observe marine ecosystems, understand the region’s geology, and engage in guided discussions on sustainable tourism.

Outcomes

By the end of the tour, students will:

• Understand the intersections of history, culture, and identity in Vietnam

• Appreciate the value of mindfulness and wellness traditions

• Gain firsthand exposure to Vietnamese architecture, education, and revolutionary history

• Recognize the importance of preserving natural and cultural heritage