Join us for an exhilarating week brimming with Vietnamese culture, blending the essence of both the contemporary and historic. Prepare to embark on a captivating journey as we explore historic monuments, engage in enriching workshops, and much more!

Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Ho Chi Minh City, gaining a profound understanding of its captivating past and thriving present. Throughout this week, you’ll gain unique insights into the customs and culture of Vietnam, forging meaningful connections with fellow participants along the way. Prepare to be captivated as we visit the magnificent historic landmarks of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. Uncover the untold stories of the Vietnam War with visits to the War Museum and the renowned Cu Chi tunnel complex.

Our sightseeing and exploration will be complemented by immersive classes on Vietnamese customs, cooking, and language, ensuring a comprehensive and authentic Vietnam experience. Let’s delve into the meticulously planned schedule:

Monday:
We begin the day with a team meeting, providing an opportunity to acquaint ourselves with the projects at hand, handle essential documents, and more. Engage in invigorating Vietnamese language lessons, where you’ll learn the intricacies of the local tongue, as well as insightful sessions on Vietnamese do’s and don’ts, enabling you to navigate the culture with grace. Before indulging in a delightful lunch, we’ll treat you to a guided tour of the campus and its surroundings, pointing out convenient facilities like ATMs and supermarkets. In the afternoon, join us for exciting activities alongside local students, fostering intercultural exchange and creating cherished memories.

Tuesday:
Awaken to a day filled with iconic destinations in Ho Chi Minh City. We’ll visit the awe-inspiring Reunification Palace, once the residence and workplace of the South Vietnamese President during the Vietnam War and the symbolic site of the war’s end when an Army tank breached its gates. Additionally, we’ll explore the architectural wonders of the Notre Dame Cathedral and the historic Centre Post Office. Prepare to be spellbound by the mesmerizing atmosphere of the Jade Emperor Pagoda, a temple that houses various halls and rooms dedicated to specific deities. Marvel at the exquisite statues of ethereal divinities such as the “Lord of Hell,” the “Goddesses of Health and Fertility,” and the “Buddha of the Future.” In the afternoon, we’ll pay a visit to the War Remnants Museum, an integral part of the nation’s recent history, followed by a lively excursion to the bustling Ben Thanh Market.

Wednesday:
Savor the morning as you embark on a culinary adventure, delving into the art of Vietnamese cuisine. Discover the secrets behind delectable local dishes as you try your hand at cooking authentic Vietnamese food. In the afternoon, unleash your creativity during a bracelet-making session, fostering a sense of artistic expression. To add to the excitement, we’ll explore the vibrant Can Cu markets, conveniently located near our accommodation.

Thursday:
Prepare for an immersive full-day excursion to one of the city’s most historically significant sites: the renowned Cu Chi Tunnel system. Delve into the hidden labyrinth that once served as hiding spots, hospitals, and storage for food and weapons, even providing shelter for numerous North Vietnamese fighters. Uncover the untold stories of resilience and ingenuity embedded within this remarkable underground network.

Friday:
Today marks an exciting milestone as we finally embark on our project site. Following introductions and orientation to the project, you will actively participate, contributing your skills and passion to make a difference.

Please note that our schedule is subject to change or adjustment based on weather conditions, local circumstances, and unforeseen events. Rest assured, we are committed to ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience for all participants.

Embrace the fulfilling role of a compassionate caretaker at a local kindergarten in Ho Chi Minh City, where you can make a positive impact on the lives of young children. Let your boundless energy and nurturing spirit shine as you engage with children aged 3 to 6, fostering their growth through play, music, and basic English instruction.

Your invaluable assistance will support the devoted teaching staff as they cater to the needs of the community. At this well-organized kindergarten, you will work alongside the teachers in one of the four classrooms, aiding them with daily tasks and ensuring a smooth operation. With class sizes ranging from 10 to 15 children, you’ll have the opportunity to provide individualized attention and care.

Mornings will commence with gathering the children, where you’ll engage them in delightful games and perhaps even sing joyous songs in the schoolyard. Guiding them to their respective classrooms, you’ll embark on an enriching journey of learning and discovery. Through various engaging activities, you’ll have the chance to teach English and assist the children in developing their writing skills. Whether through melodic tunes, rhythmic dances, or interactive games, you’ll employ creative and enjoyable methods to foster their learning and growth.

Lunchtime will be a collaborative effort, as you assist in serving meals, helping the children with their food, and maintaining a clean and organized eating area. After the nourishing meal, you’ll provide gentle guidance in preparing the children for their naptime, ensuring a peaceful and restful break.

The afternoon will be filled with exciting activities and continued learning, commencing at 14:00 and concluding at 17:00, when the children are joyfully reunited with their parents. Weather permitting, some of these activities may take place outdoors, granting the children ample space to run, play, and explore.

Here’s an overview of your rewarding daily schedule, Monday to Friday:

– Breakfast
– Morning Session (7:30 – 11:30): Engage in creative and educational activities with the children, fostering their development and curiosity.
– Prepare children and eating area for lunch, contributing to a harmonious dining experience.
– Assist with cleanup and guide the children to their naptime, ensuring a peaceful rest period.
– Lunch: Collaborate in serving and supporting the children during their mealtime.
– Afternoon Session (14:00 – 17:00): Dive into a world of creativity and learning, engaging with the children through various stimulating activities.
– Dinner

Join us on this heartwarming journey of nurturing young minds, as together, we create a brighter future for these children and inspire a love for learning.

Please note that our schedule is subject to change or adjustment based on weather conditions, local circumstances, and unforeseen events. Rest assured, we are committed to ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience for all participants.

Embark on a unique teaching journey that offers a fresh twist! Channel your advanced English skills to guide students your own age, fostering a two-way learning process that nurtures cultural exchange and personal growth.

As an English mentor, you’ll have the opportunity to help fellow students enhance their vocabulary, spelling, pronunciation, and overall English proficiency. Your peers, primarily nursing and business students aged 19 to 25, will benefit from your expertise in a mutually advantageous dynamic that encompasses both learning and cultural exploration.

Your role as a mentor will unfold within the inspiring setting of Bach Viet College, where nursing and business administration take center stage. Together, we’ll engage in interactive teaching methods, such as re-enactments, real-life scenarios, and immersive communication. Your advanced or native level of English will serve as the catalyst to propel your peers’ language skills forward.

Each class spans a total of two hours and will be facilitated by a lead participant mentor, providing everyone with an opportunity to take charge of a lesson. At the beginning of each session, the lead mentor will allocate 30 minutes to review previous lessons and provide a preview of the day’s topic. Subsequently, students will be divided into small groups, with each participant mentoring one group.

To ensure the success of this endeavor, you’ll collaborate with fellow participants in creating a teaching plan, utilizing the provided teaching manual as a valuable resource. Regular attendance in classes and maximum interaction with students throughout the day will be crucial. Rest assured, your evenings and weekends will offer ample free time to spend with the friends you make during this remarkable experience.

The students at Bach Viet College possess an unwavering eagerness to refine their English skills and warmly embrace individuals from different cultures. They are excited to share their way of life and welcome you into their vibrant community.

Let’s delve into the schedule, starting with Monday:

On your introduction day at the college, you’ll be familiarized with the campus in the morning, gaining insights into the core programs offered at Bach Viet College, with a particular emphasis on nursing and business administration. In the afternoon, you’ll immerse yourself in the classroom environment, gauging your level of involvement in English teaching. This could range from serving as a classroom assistant to taking the lead as a teacher.

From Tuesday to Friday, you’ll be fully engaged in the college’s regular activities, embracing the rewarding experience of mentoring your peers and igniting their passion for English language acquisition.

During school holidays, this program is replaced by an English camp, providing an exciting and dynamic platform to continue fostering language skills and cultural exchange.

Please note that our schedule is subject to change or adjustment based on weather conditions, local circumstances, and unforeseen events. Rest assured, we are committed to ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience for all participants.

Join us in making a difference as we support an extraordinary food shop dedicated to providing low-cost, nutritious meals to vulnerable locals in need. Your involvement in this impactful program will involve food preparation, serving, and clean-up, as we work together to bring smiles and affordable hot meals to those who rely on this invaluable service.

At The Smile Food Shop, you’ll be part of a remarkable initiative established in 2012. This NGO-run establishment, powered by the passion of local individuals, offers lunches priced at a mere 2000 VND (approximately 10 cents) per meal. Your contribution to this endeavor will be immensely appreciated, as we strive to make a positive impact on the lives of the community we serve.

Through your efforts, you’ll assist in the preparation and service of meals for a diverse group of approximately 500 individuals, including the elderly, local workers, persons with disabilities, students, and children. Each day, they rely on these affordable, well-prepared, and quality meals, and your presence will ensure their continued access to nourishment.

Undoubtedly, this program will present you with challenges, engagement, and moments of exhaustion. However, it will also provide you with some of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences you have ever encountered. Every minute spent making a difference at The Smile Food Shop will be cherished and etched in your memory.

Please note that the Food Shop program remains operational even when the NGO facility is closed, including during the month-long closure around the Tet Holiday. During these periods, participants like yourself will prepare food on-site at our accommodation kitchen. These meals will then be distributed to patients and local workers at a nearby hospital, ensuring that no one is left without sustenance.

Let’s delve into the schedule for this meaningful endeavor, Monday to Friday:

– Breakfast
– Depart for the food shop, ready to contribute to the preparation of meals, work in the kitchen, maintain cleanliness in the area, and assist with serving, among other tasks.
– Enjoy lunch at the food shop, savoring the camaraderie and collective effort that goes into nourishing the community.
– Return to the accommodation, where you’ll have some free time during the afternoon to recharge and engage in personal activities.
– Dinner, a time to reflect on the day’s accomplishments and bond with fellow participants.

During periods or holidays when the NGO facility is closed, the program will be relocated. Participants will prepare meals at our accommodation kitchen, which will then be distributed at a local hospital to benefit patients and local workers.

Please note that our schedule is subject to change or adjustment based on weather conditions, local circumstances, and unforeseen events. Rest assured, we are committed to ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience for all participants.

Make a meaningful difference by assisting in the compassionate care of special children facing mental and physical disabilities at the local hospital in our city.

Working alongside dedicated local staff, you will play an integral role in providing care and support to these children. Your tasks will include feeding them, offering comfort, engaging in playful games, and promoting social interaction. Through your involvement, you can contribute to fostering their sense of dignity, independence, and active participation within the community.

Within this childcare home, approximately 20-25 Vietnamese children with diverse disabilities receive daily care. Your primary responsibility as a participant will revolve around nurturing and attending to these children. This may involve providing comfort, engaging in games, and fostering social connections. Prior experience in this field is beneficial but not mandatory, as your commitment and genuine care will make a significant impact.

Enhancing the quality of life for these children centers around improving their speech and muscular capacity. Daily routines are designed to support their development, and you will have the opportunity to actively contribute to their progress.

The children also derive immense joy from activities such as games, dancing, singing, and creative endeavors like painting and art. The hospital encourages and embraces these outlets as they promote holistic well-being for the children.

Let’s explore the schedule:

Monday:
During your first week, you will receive an introduction to the project and the dedicated staff. This will be an ideal time to discuss your upcoming role and responsibilities with the project manager. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to meet and familiarize yourself with the children, creating a foundation for your engagement.

Tuesday to Friday:
You will embark on your placement at the disabled children’s home, where your specific responsibilities will align with the current needs of the facility. Engaging in games, supporting speech development, and assisting with posture are common activities during this placement.

Please note that there will be a substantial break for lunch, allowing for rest and rejuvenation.

Your participation in this program holds the power to positively impact the lives of these special children. By offering your care, compassion, and support, you can help create a nurturing environment that empowers them to thrive. Together, let’s forge a path toward a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Please note that our schedule is subject to change or adjustment based on weather conditions, local circumstances, and unforeseen events. Rest assured, we are committed to ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience for all participants.