Today was the very first day where we would be flying to Vietnam for our overseas exchange programme. Everyone reported punctually at the airport at 6 in the morning. I was very excited as it was my first trip overseas, not to mention without my family by my side. When we arrived at Ho Chi Minh City, we proceeded straight to the Post Office. We only viewed the Notre Dame Cathedral and the City Hall From the outside. These places were filled with French architectural design, which was very grand.
Post Office
After lunch, we departed for the Cu chi Tunnel. I was fascinated by the various traps that were used to kill their enemies in times of war. In the tunnel itself, it was very stuffy and dark. The route was very narrow and we had to 'duck-walk'. At times, there were even huge water puddles and steep slopes, which led to us ending up with muddy shoes and clothes. During the process of traveling in the tunnel, communication was very important as the people who were leading at the front would have to spread messages to those at the back, to warn them of steps, puddles and slopes etc. Although after the walk, we were all sweaty and exhausted, but we did not regret doing it, as it was actually quite fun and somehow adventurous.
TRAPS!
We had dinner at the Royal Revolving Restaurant . The food was delicious and we enjoyed ourselves very much. However, the spinning made us a little dizzy and made it quite difficult for us to eat well.
Some pictures of FOOODD!
Afterwards, we checked into the hotel and had our rest!
Day 4
Visited the Bao Dai Villa today. It was rather interesting as we got to see how the lives of the Royalties in the past. Before entering the Villa itself, we had to wear a weird sock-like thing over our shoes, to make sure that we do not dirty the place. There was even an olden day sauna that was used by King Bao Dai, but it was already damaged and unable to be used anymore. We missed the trip to the Frenn Waterfall and the Dalat Flower Garden as the weather was unfavourable, which was a pity.
The Bao Dai Villa
The weird sock-like thing
One of the Royalties' room
Some sort of place to rest
Olden day sauna!OCIP at Lat Village
It was rather an enjoyable experience here, as we got a hands-on activity to help the villagers build barriers to keep out of wild animals. It was a little tough, as we had to carry long tree branches around and also to make use of sharp knives to cut the ends of the branches sharp, so as to be able to plunge it into the ground. The strong winds blowing and the unpredictable rain were not making our tasks any better. We also had a chance to gather in a hut to hide from the heavy rain. It was warm and meanwhile to keep us away from boredom, the tribal leader sang songs for us and we also joined in the fun.
OCIP at the Orphanage
The experience at the orphanage was an enriching and meaningful one. I felt that the orphanage was great as it took into account of the orphans' needs. For example, We were told that the children there had a chance to go on a vacation out of their town once in 2 months, to enjoy themselves. It was a pity that the older children were at the theme park today, so we did not get to see them. The sight of babies and young kids with facial defects, down syndrome and other problems with regards to their health, was really heart-wrenching. We felt very helpless when they were crying as there was nothing we can do to ease them from their sufferings. However, sad moments did not last and things did get better. In other rooms, there were many cheerful babies that were awaiting us. Seeing the smile on their faces really lightened our mood. There was a strong connection between us and the babies we were playing with. I realised how fortunate I am, to have my friends and families by my side. Overall, it was a wonderful experience and one of the best days i had in Vietnam!
Group photo!
Corrine and her kid!
Yanling and her baby girl!
Me and my boy!
Busy playing with the babies...- Shi Hui