HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM
ARRIVE: 1200 FRIDAY, 10 FEBRUARY ON SHIP TIME: 1800 TUESDAY, 14 FEBRUARY
Brief Overview: Vietnam has made a name for itself with its beautiful countryside and rich cultural history. The country’s ravishing coastline, emerald-green mountains, and lush jungles lie in juxtaposition to its dynamic cities. Despite rapid economic development, you’ll find a steadfastness of traditional livelihoods and cultural practices in Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon) is a lively city with remnants of its French colonial past. The streets are bustling with about 6 million whizzing motorbikes. And for tourists the city is a bargain shoppers’ paradise. Vietnam’s renowned cuisine surely will not disappoint, so be sure to grab a bowl of the quintessential noodle soup known as pho, or treat yourself to a crispy baguette and a cup of coffee found on just about every street corner. There is much to explore in this rich country, including Ha Noi’s graceful architecture and boulevards, the nearby Ha Long Bay, the beautiful Mekong Delta region with its floating markets, or the stunning rice terraces in Sapa. Opt for a homestay to fully submerse yourself in typical Vietnamese life in a local village. CAMBODIA: Please note that you will ONLY have the opportunity to travel to Cambodia on a Field Program due to strict immigration regulations. There are four trips to Cambodia:
Mekong Exit to Cambodia: Experience life along the Mekong River on both sides of the border Temples of Angkor: After visiting the ancient temples in Siem Reap, travel to Hoi An for a bike ride to Cam Kim island, some beach time, and a cooking class with local chefs. Cambodia Express: See it all and still have time to explore Viet Nam. Cu Chi Cambodia Combo: Stop on your way at Cu Chi before heading on to Phnom Phen & Siem Reap.
Take a look at the Vietnam & Cambodia Student Photo Gallery to see some of the Spring 2014 experiences! Field program highlights by category: Cultural highlights: Day 2: HCM 103-201: China Town & Temples Day 4: HCM 115-403: A O Performance at the Opera Day 5: HCM 111-501: Market Visit & Cooking Team Challenge IMPACT Opportunities: Day 1: Ha Noi Sapa Hill Homestay Day 2: HCM 307-201: Mekong Delta Explorer Homestay Day 4: HCM 129-401: Home-Hosted Lunch Environment: Day 3: HCM 304-301: Coastal Wonders of Nha Trang
History: Day 1: HCM 101-102 Cu Chi Tunnel Half Day Tour Day 2: HCM 126-201 Cu Chi Tunnels & War Remnants Museum Active/Adventure: Day 1: HCM 403-102 Ha Noi & Cuc Phuong Park Day 2: HCM 402-201 Extended Caving in Quang Binh Day 4: HCM 119-401: Biking in Saigon’s Outskirts Art and Architecture: Day 1: HCM 100-102 Ho Chi Minh City Orientation Day 1: HCM 502-102 Temples of Angkor