Plus 3 - 2024: A splash of color to the journey with experiential tours and visits to historical sites
Accompanying the students were Ms. Stephanie Laura Spirk - Global Experiences Program Manager, University of Pittsburgh, Professor Haimanti Banerjee - Representative, University of Pittsburgh, Ms. Chu Ngoc Anh Thu - UEF International Institute specialist, and Mr. Tran Trong Thanh - Faculty member, Hospitality & Tourism Management, in charge of a tour guide and coordinator.
The special weekend trip of the US student delegation
Many invaluable experiences in Vung Tau coastal city
Early morning of MAY 11, the group first came to the Big Mountain (Nui Lon) sightseeing spot. Here, students from the two universities got a chance to view the typical symbol of Vung Tau City. Climbing up more than 800 steps under the sun with a sea breeze, the students were extremely excited when they reached the giant statue and enjoyed the beauty of the landscape. From above, the panoramic view of the coastal city of Vung Tau was to be captured in the eyes of the international students.
Climbing and gazing statue of Christ the King
Checking in at the most famous place in Vung Tau, students from the United States gave many compliments to this coastal city. Then, the group moved down the mountain and returned to Mercure Vung Tau to have lunch before continuing their journey. UEFers and international friends immersed themselves in the cool ocean water. Moreover, entertainment and swimming activities were met with enthusiasm by Pitt’s representatives and students.
Summer cooling in Vung Tau beach and Mercure Vung Tau’s swimming pool
Explore the Historical relic Ben Duoc Tunnel
On Sunday, the Plus 3 journey’s destination was the Historical relic Ben Duoc Tunnel. The students had a chance to listen to historical stories and watch documentaries on the wide screen recreating the heroic history of Vietnamese people. The scenery has been reconstructed in detail, giving international students the most realistic overview.
Documentaries footage is recreated on the wide screen
The international student group excitedly experienced the land of steel.
Claire Barrios, who has learned about historical documents and gained direct experience with the secret tunnel, said: “I found the way Vietnamese soldiers lived in that tunnel system very interesting. When I directly entered it, I felt a bit suffocated, although it was just a short tunnel and I was on the top floor. Honestly, the trip to the tunnel made me respect Vietnamese soldiers even more”.
Tranforming into an “artisan” of traditional lacquer painting
After the special tour in Cu Chi, the group moved to Lang Viet Traditional Craft Village (Lang Viet Lacquer Co., Ltd.). This specialty store offers lacquer paintings, bamboo furniture, wooden furniture, lacquered furniture, and lacquered ceramics and donates 15% of profits to disabled workers here.
The international student group received an in-depth explanation of lacquer painting
Here, instructors directly instructed students to make paintings from eggshells and seashells. Each step required meticulousness, dedication, and craftsmanship. After many tries, Claire Barrios began to get used to it and her technique became more refined. Claire Barrios shared: "Admiring the beautiful works of art created with meticulous care, I enjoyed watching all the artisans here at work. I truly appreciate the mission of this craft village, not only providing charity for people with disabilities but also creating jobs for them. I am even more happy to learn that their paintings are of higher quality than those from other art companies in Vietnam. This trip made my weekend much more meaningful”.
Students experienced the hands-on process of creating a work of art
Preserve memorable moments at Lang Viet
When sharing about the past two special days, Professor Haimanti Banerjee emphasized: "I feel like everything in Vietnam is wonderful and beyond imagination. I am especially impressed with the Cu Chi Tunnel and a day of experience here. Going down the tunnel and learning about the lives of the local people is an extremely impressive experience. I have seen many famous documentaries about the Vietnamese people’s resistance to war, but when I see them directly from the outside, it's really special. Vietnam has a truly heroic history."
Concluding the experiential journey on the two weekend days, the group returned to Ho Chi Minh City and took a rest to prepare for upcoming trips. This week, the group continues to visit businesses, study interesting subjects and especially embark on an exciting adventure to the Mekong Delta, promising many surprises.
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