HISTORY

New Zealand had a modest involvement in the Vietnam War with approximately 3000 New Zealand personnel serving between 1960 and 1975.  This war still has much to teach us about international relations during that time, as does the techniques and tactics that were used by the Vietnamese people. Visits to historic museums, commemorative monuments and even former prisons, will present your students with the opportunity to not only engage with New Zealand history, but also experience the warmth and hospitality of a people who have slowly rebuilt their lives and the beautiful culture that they cherish and preserve.

Sample Activities

DMZ Tour- Visit the Truong Son Cemetery which is dedicated to the estimated 25,000 men, women and children who dies on the Truong Son Trail. (Hue)

Cu Chi Tunnels – This was once a major underground hideout and resistance base of Vietnam Cong forces during both wars against the French and the Americans. The tunnels were entirely hand dug, forming an intricate network of passageways. Watch a short introductory video showing how the tunnels were constructed before spending an hour exploring. (Ho Chi Minh)

Museum of Ethnology and the infamous Hoa Loa Prison Museum- Hoa Loa is also known as the ‘’Hanoi Hilton’’ was where former US presidential candidate John McCain was incarcerated for over 5 years. (Hanoi)

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Culture

We believe that one of the best ways of experiencing and learning while travelling is to fully immerse yourself in the authentic culture of a country.  Join in with their daily activities, learn about their food and their customs, and try speaking the language with the locals and your visit will be enriched far beyond the typical tourist experience. See what lies beneath the surface through these unique and immersive experiences.

Sample Activities

KOTO Restaurant and Vietnamese Water Puppet Show-  dinner at the flagship Hanoi restaurant. KOTO is a social enterprise that provides positive change to the lives of street and disadvantaged youth. This is by giving them access to develop their kitchen skills and building self-confidence. Your dinner experience includes a water puppet show. (Hanoi)

Dong Ba Market- as the city’s traditional commercial centre, it gives students the opportunity to buy and bargain with the locals. (Hue)

Temple of Literature- known as the first university of Vietnam built in 1070 by the Ly Dynasty to honour Confucius, sages and outstanding Vietnamese scholars.

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