You are invited to join us on the next Center for International Experiential Learning (CIEL) trip to Vietnam from 12/28/2024 to 01/05/2025. We are also offering an option to extend the trip by four days to travel to Cambodia with us (01/05/2025 to 01/09/2025).

More than four decades after the Second Indochina War (1955-1975), known to Americans as the "Vietnam War" and to Vietnamese as "The American War" or "The Resistance War against America," there is much to be learned from Vietnam and its regional and global impact. Some of the issues that our travel and pre-trip education will explore include the effects of colonialism and imperialism under Chinese rule (111BC to 938AD) and French colonial rule (1858-1954), as well as Vietnam's colonial projects in Cambodia and its contemporary relationship with China.

We will examine the impact these historical and current events have had on Vietnamese national identity, how this history is reflected and told in the country, and what we can learn from it. We will also examine the legacy of Vietnam's civil wars and foreign interventions, including the role of the U.S. both during and after the war and why Americans are still being welcomed in the country. We will also address issues of Vietnam's reunification after the ‘fall’ or ‘liberation’ of Saigon, post-conflict economic devastation and reform, and how Vietnam has dealt with the issue of refugees and how this has impacted ongoing questions of reconciliation across diverse perspectives, especially with the younger people growing up after the war (more than half of the population is under 35 years of age).

Itinerary

Our trip will start in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, with excellent international flight connections. Hanoi has much to offer: a beautiful old city and many important museums and monuments. Guided by Professor Kevin Pham, a Vietnam expert and scholar of Ho Chi Minh’s political thought, we will explore how the vision for an independent and unified Vietnam was developed here by “Uncle Ho” and his associates.

We want to immerse you in the Vietnam’s vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes through a series of experiential learning activities. In the walkable and scenic city of Hanoi, we'll delve into traditional caligraphy workshops, uncovering the ancient art of writing, and explore the local craft of silvermaking.

On the morning of December 31st, we will fly to Hoi An, the famous UNESCO World-Heritage City, for a lantern-making workshop, culminating in a lantern release during the New Year celebrations. We will spend the first day of the New Year in this vibrant city relaxing and enjoying one of the most scenic places in the country.

On January 2nd, we will fly to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon, although locals use both names interchangeably) and have five days in this buzzing metropolis. Besides being the former capital of South Vietnam (Republic of Vietnam), it is also the business and financial hub of the country and a well-known center for the arts.

Through our partnership with Fulbright University Vietnam and Professor Yen Vu, we will get a unique opportunity to engage with the younger generation, who comprise most of the country's population. A staggering 70%+ of the Vietnamese were born after the end of the Vietnam War (which Vietnamese commonly call the Resistance War Against America).

As the epicenter of U.S. presence during the war, we will also explore the legacy and current sentiments of the Vietnamese toward the U.S. and other former colonial powers. We will meet with veterans of the conflict on the Vietnamese and the U.S. side.

The journey in Saigon combines experiential learning and cultural entertainment. We will go to a show and take a hands-on cooking class, offering insight into Vietnam's rich heritage and culinary traditions.

Cambodia Extension:

The second part of the trip will start on January 5th, when we will fly to Siem Reap in Cambodia and continue to the famous world heritage site of the Angkor Wat temple complex. The experience is enriched by engaging with our local friends and partners in a basket weaving workshop at a social enterprise, communal shopping at the local night market, and culminating in the warmth of a shared home-cooked meal, deepening our connection to the local culture and community.

Before taking our bus to Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh and visiting the site of the Killing Fields on the way, we will learn about Vietnam’s invasion of Cambodia, which ultimately stopped the genocide there. Comparing how the two countries reflect on the same period of time, their relationship to the U.S. (and the West in general), and towards each other will be instructive as we finish our trip and reflect on our learnings.

Again, many good international flights leave from Phnom Penh back to the U.S. (or other international locations). We will depart on January 09.

Accommodation

Vietnam

• Three nights in Hanoi (most likely at the GM Premium Hotel - the highest-rated boutique hotel in the city in a great location – superior rooms with a view)

• One night in Hoi An (most likely at the Paddy Boutique House Hoian - a 4-star hotel within walking distance of UNESCO Heritage Old Town)

• Four nights in Saigon (most likely at the Myst Dong Khoi – a 5-Star hotel with celebrated modern architecture/design)

Cambodia

• Two nights in Siem Reap (most likely at Hotel Vellita – a boutique hotel with a tranquil atmosphere close to Angkor Wat)

• Two nights in Phnom Penh (most likely at the Plantation Urban Resort & Spa, an award-winning centrally located luxury hotel)