On the first day, students visited the Independence Palace right after landing. This presidential palace blends French colonial style with Chinese cultural elements. Students learned about the President’s daily life there and the building’s role in Vietnam’s war history, gaining a better understanding of the country’s modern history. We also made a visit to the Central Post Office and the Red Church (Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral). The former is a French colonial postal building, while the latter is a red-brick church modeled after Notre-Dame in Paris. Students appreciated their unique designs and learned about Ho Chi Minh City’s historic architecture. We hope the students can get sufficient rest tonight, as tomorrow we will carry out volunteer activities at a center for people with disabilities.
On the second day of the trip, students first visited the Wings of Hope Center. This charity organization helps people with disabilities reintegrate into society by teaching them self-sufficiency skills and restoring their confidence in life. Students participated in the trainees’ handicraft work and made teddy bears together with them, gaining an appreciation of their resilient spirit. Afterwards, we took part in a coffee experience workshop and learned to prepare three types of Vietnamese specialty coffees. In addition to learning about Vietnam’s rich coffee culture, students also understood the full process from planting and harvesting to roasting and brewing, deepening their understanding of local food culture. Finally, we enjoyed a traditional water puppet performance with a history spanning over a thousand years. Through the exquisite performance and unique stage design, students gained a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s distinctive cultural traditions and folk arts, and appreciated the wisdom and creativity of the Vietnamese people.
On the third day of the trip, we first visited the Disabled Children’s School in Cu Chi District for volunteer activities. Cu Chi was one of the areas most heavily affected by the war, and its consequences still impact the health of local children today. Students brought gifts for the children and played games with them, learning about the lasting effects of war and the importance of caring for vulnerable groups. Afterwards, we visited the Cu Chi Tunnels. This was an important underground base built by the National Liberation Front of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War, stretching over 200 kilometers. Students went inside the narrow tunnels and experienced the hardships of war firsthand. Finally, we visited the Ho Chi Minh City Hall and the Ho Chi Minh Opera House, where we admired their elegant French-style architecture and learned more about the city’s colonial history and cultural heritage.
On the fourth day of the trip, we first visited the International Red Cross Home Humanitarian Center. This center cares for orphans and runs schools to help them receive education and contribute to society in the future. Students danced with the children, gave them gifts, and toured the school buildings, spending a joyful time together. Afterwards, we participated in a ceramics workshop. Students learned how Vietnamese people preserve traditional ceramic styles while adding innovative elements to create unique works, and experienced the fun of hands-on creation.Finally, we went to Ben Thanh Market. Students bought plenty of souvenirs and returned with full bags, adding many wonderful memories to the trip.
On the last day of the trip, we visited the bustling Chinatown in Ho Chi Minh City! We first explored Binh Tay Market, which was full of lively stalls and all kinds of goods, then went to Thien Hau Temple (Sui Cheng Assembly Hall). This Mazu Temple, built by Cantonese Chinese in the 18th century, has a strong incense atmosphere and beautiful architecture. Students felt the rich Chinese cultural vibe and experienced the unique blend of Chinese and Vietnamese cultures.After that, we entered the War Remnants Museum. The exhibits showed the history of the Vietnam War, helping everyone understand the cruelty of war and appreciate the value of peace today.
The five-day, four-night Ho Chi Minh City World Citizen Volunteer Service Trip has come to an end! Through volunteer activities and cultural experiences, students not only learned the joy of serving others, but also broadened their horizons and gained a deeper understanding of Vietnamese culture, customs, and history. Everyone is returning home with full hearts and memories, and will bring these valuable experiences back to Hong Kong to continue making a difference in school and daily life, becoming more caring and globally minded young citizens! Finally, we would like to give special thanks to the tour guides and drivers for their great care over the past few days, making our trip smooth and enjoyable!
