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).

We will explore Vietnam's layered history and evolving present through its art, cuisine, and cultural practices while examining the nation's complex journey of conflict, resilience, and transformation. From the impacts of Chinese and French colonialism to the Vietnam War and its aftermath, this trip provides a deep understanding of Vietnam's national identity and regional significance. Join us to see how Vietnam's past continues to shape its contemporary society and global relations.

Itinerary: Part 1 (Vietnam)

12/28/2024 - 12/31/2024: Hanoi

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.

In Hanoi, we'll stay at the Peridot Gallery Classic Hotel, a luxury boutique hotel that captures traditional elegance. We will immerse ourselves in Vietnam’s vibrant culture and history through conversations with experts and experiential learning opportunities. We will learn the ancient art of writing at a traditional calligraphy workshop, make silver jewelry with local craftspeople, and, of course, explore the food with local chefs.

12/31/2024 - 01/02/2024: Hoi An

On the morning of December 31st, we will fly to Hoi An, the renowned UNESCO World Heritage City. We will stay at a private villa with a lovely pool and views of the rice paddies. We will participate in a lantern-making workshop and release our lanterns during the New Year celebrations. The first day of the New Year will be spent relaxing and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Hoi An, one of the most scenic places in the country.

01/02/2024 - 01/05/2024: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

On January 2nd, we will fly to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon, although locals use both names interchangeably) and have four 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. We will stay at the Michelin recommended Myst Dong Khoi Hotel in Saigon, a luxurious boutique hotel centrally located in District 1, renowned for its award-winning design that seamlessly blends modern architecture with elements of Old Saigon.

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.

ITINERARY: Part 2 (Cambodia extention)

01/05/2024 - 01/07/2024: Siem Reap

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. We have a unique connection to culture and community through our local friends and partners who will teach us basket weaving at a social enterprise. After that, we will shop together at the local night market, cook dinner together, and enjoy a local home-cooked dinner in their home. We'll be staying at the Vellita Hotel in Siem Reap, a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, known for its beautiful gardens and relaxing pool area.

01/07/2024 - 01/09/2024: Phnom Penh

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.

We'll be staying at the Plantation Urban Resort & Spa, a beautifully restored 1930s French colonial building offering a peaceful oasis with a large pool and elegant design in the heart of Phnom Penh. 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 (Peridot Gallery Classic Hotel - boutique hotel with rooftop pool in a great location – superior rooms with a view)

• Two nights in Hoi An (Private villa with private pool and chef)

• Three nights in Saigon (Myst Dong Khoi – a 5-Star hotel with celebrated modern architecture/design)

Cambodia

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

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

COST

Pricing includes all in-country transportation, in-country flights, accommodations, meals, all program related excursions and entry fees.

Option 1: Vietnam, Dec 28, 2024 - Jan 5, 2025 (9 days)

• Community pricing (double occupancy): $3,500

• Discounted alumni pricing (double occupancy): $2,950

Option 2: Vietnam & Cambodia, Dec 28, 2024 - Jan 9, 2025 (13 days) 

• Community pricing (double occupancy): $5,250

• Discounted alumni pricing (double occupancy): $4,500