Duration of programs: 3 to 28 days
Clients: School and University groups
Project Location: Mai Chau District
Destination: Vietnam
Groups Per Year: 15 to 20 groups
Discova has created a range of community-based tourism projects in rural Mai Chau. Designed to connect travellers with local communities in Northern Vietnam, these projects provide unique learning opportunities, allow cultural exchange whilst also promoting sustainable community development.
Challenges
Many educational travel groups are looking for opportunities to gain hands-on learning experiences, immerse in a foreign culture and positively contribute to local communities. Among the main challenges are access, language barriers and cultural understanding, as well as informed project management that ensures sustainable development.
Solution
In partnership with local communities, Discova’s educational travel experts have established a range of building and healthcare projects in Mai Chau. These projects offer groups access to first-hand service experiences whilst ensuring sustainable development of local communities. Residents have been trained and financially supported to provide homestays for students who also get the opportunity to take part in a series of immersive activities, including countryside hikes, cooking classes and craft workshops. To complement this, Discova’s experienced facilitators accompany groups, providing translation services and cultural guidance.
“To be able to learn and be shown the medical side of North Vietnam in the mountain area of Mai Chau but to also stay, learn some of the culture and have the local people welcome you into their homes and lives was truly humbling. From the time we landed in Hanoi until the time we left we had the most amazing tour guides who at all times were professional, friendly, knowledgeable and more than welcoming. Their translating was helpful and no doubt trying on occasions. I would highly recommend anyone who is given this opportunity to participate in this program to go for it no matter how old you are.”
– Belinda B.
Nursing student from North Metropolitan TAFE who joined a two-week clinical nursing program in Mai Chau