Vietnam
Its unique geographic shape (resembling a rising Asian dragon), breathtaking natural beauty, deep-rooted traditions, and resilient people make Vietnam a fascinating country to explore. Descendants of the Mongols from China and migrants from Indonesia, the Vietnamese were ruled by foreign imperialists for hundreds of years before finally achieving unified independence under a Communist regime in the 1970s, and the culture reflects a unique blend of the Chinese, Japanese, French, and American colonial influences. Traditional Vietnamese culture focuses heavily on family and community and celebrates a long artistic heritage including water puppetry, calligraphy, and innovative cuisine, as well as music, dance, and architecture.
Years of isolation and inefficiency led to substantial economic reforms in the late 1980s that have gone a long way to accelerating the growth of the economy and improved the general standards of education, healthcare, and living. However, Vietnam has a long way to go before it catches up with many of its neighbors in Southeast Asia. Though Vietnam is now considered a “middle-income country” about 70% of the population still lives in remote, rural areas with little public infrastructure. Our service work, fixing up school sites with local youth in Ho Chi Minh City, is a fantastic way to experience the culture and make an impact that will come back to you 10 times over.
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Upcoming Trips
Expand your horizons. Give back while taking in the world from a new perspective. There are as many reasons to adventure as there are destinations to explore. Check out these upcoming service travel adventures.
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Trip Highlights
What You Will Remember
THE PEOPLE
Vietnamese are universally friendly! Polite and considerate to a tee, they are also welcoming and enthusiastic in embracing visitors to their country. Vietnamese are eager to share the beauty of their country and to learn about the world beyond. You will be greeted by smiles wherever you travel and it is those brilliant smiles that will remain in your memories.
THE CULTURE
There is so much to take in — from the natural beauty of the World Heritage sites to the peaceful gardens and royal palaces, in the everyday artistry of the colorful cuisine and intricate craftsmanship and the exotic exuberance of the traditional festivals. The Vietnam tradition is one of careful artistry and attention to detail only rivaled by the geographic beauty of its landscapes.
YOUR IMPACT
At once both fast-developing and still underdeveloped, Vietnam is full of schools in need of repairs, beautification and overall TLC. Alongside youth of the neighborhoods where these schools sit, you will refurbish and decorate classrooms and engage in games with the kids at the school. You will quickly grow attached to these young children whose futures you will make brighter.
Vietnam Service Projects
Projects are based on community needs and community direction, but traditionally fall under the category of access to education. Here are a few examples.
Travel Highlights
In addition to volunteering, you will have time to travel and explore much of what the country has to offer.
SERVING WITH LOCAL YOUTH
MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS
SERVING WITH LOCAL YOUTH
CULTURAL EXCHANGE
MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS
HAVING FUN WITH NEW FRIENDS
CULTURAL EXCHANGE
TOURING HISTORIC SITES
SCHOOL BEAUTIFICATION
EXPLORING LOCAL DISHES
SCHOOL BEAUTIFICATION
STEPPING OUT OF OUR COMFORT ZONE
Testimonials
“The program has taught me the impact of doing community service and the amazing amount of bonding we can do and the difference we can make by working together as a team and being guided by great leaders.”
“Lisa and Vincent both had a wonderful experience on your Dream Volunteers Summer Program. The camp was very well done. We were impressed. Thank you for all your hard work.”
“This experience has allowed me to empathize with and learn about those who live differently from me. I’ve realized that although we have our differences, there are many ways in which we are the same. This program has also inspired me to continue with my community service work.“
Ready for the Experience of a Lifetime?
Find out how to start the journey
