WORLD CHALLENGE
From the very beginning of our journey, we learned that things don’t always go to plan and that’s okay. When we found out we could no longer travel to Nepal, we were disappointed at first. But that feeling quickly turned into excitement and gratitude when we learned our trip would be relocated to Vietnam — and what an incredible experience it turned out to be.
From the moment we arrived, Vietnam welcomed us with colour, flavour, and kindness. We ate our first Bánh Mì, met our amazing guide Lap, and began exploring the country’s rich heritage sites. We tried Egg Coffee — Vietnam’s traditional take on a classic — and learned how to navigate using Vietnamese Dong, which definitely took some getting used to!
Some of our highlights included an incredible Food Night Tour, visiting Ho Chi Minh’s embalmed body, and a boat tour and walked through the caves of Hạ Long Bay — a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, we also discovered a new favourite game, Labubu Uno — or as we called it, Labuno!
We watched a traditional Water Puppet Show, wandered through the Night Market, and took on a hike that led us to a community homestay. There, we connected with local families and village children, who instantly made us feel at home. We hiked 20km over the course of 3 days. It was a challenge in the heat but we were rewarded by small breaks and ice-cream pit stops. The views of the mountains of Mai Chau were beautiful.
One of the most meaningful parts of the trip was our community project in Khai Cai Village, where we helped build a road. It was hard work but so rewarding to see the impact our efforts could make. Our contributions ensured that children were able to go to school without getting stuck if it rains heavily. We also shared a Talent Show with the Village. We were in awe of the traditional dancing that took place and shared some rich Australian culture when it comes to dances - The Nutbush and Macarena! We took part in a home cooking class, and spent plenty of time laughing, bonding, and reflecting on everything we’d experienced together. Very few people in the Village could speak English. We found different ways to communicate including lots of smiles and Paper, Scissors, Rock.
Throughout the trip, we learned about the many different roles people play in a community - from builders and farmers to cooks and teachers, and how every job, big or small, helps a village thrive.
When we think back on Vietnam, our favourite things aren’t just the sights or the food, (though incredible) but the people, the sense of community, and the lessons we’ll carry with us long after coming home.
This trip reminded us that even when plans change, amazing things can happen and sometimes, the best experiences are the ones we never expected. We valued just how simple things can make life fulfilling and enriching. We were reminded of the importance of gratitude. We are grateful for all the amazing experiences we had and the strong bonds we have returned home with.
A very special mention to the amazing teachers that accompanied us Ms Penny Linardos and Mrs Melissa Field.
Mia J, Lucia G, Ebony G, Isabella van D, Ricie E, Avalee C and Aston D
