The journey begins with a warm welcome to Hanoi, where the vibrant streets are alive with history and energy. After a delicious introduction to Vietnamese cuisine at KOTO Restaurant—a social enterprise helping disadvantaged youth—we explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology for a deep dive into the country’s diverse cultures. As the day winds down, we begin our journey to Lao Cai, a scenic 8-hour train ride full of anticipation.

Our adventure begins with an overnight train ride from Hanoi to Lao Cai, offering a scenic journey through Vietnam’s countryside. After arriving in Lao Cai, we drive up to Sapa, where we’re welcomed by misty mountains and cool air.We kick off the day with a delicious bowl of Bac Ha Pho, a local specialty known for its rich broth and fresh herbs, at Phở Bắc Hà Quân Luyến Chính Hiệu. Afterward, we head to Hầu Thào Primary and Secondary School for a warm welcome and to connect with the local community. The day ends with a dinner prepared by our students, celebrating both local flavors and new friendships.

The heart of the trip comes to life in Muong Hoa Valley, where students dive into hands-on service work. Whether it’s creating a vegetable garden at Hau Thao School, teaching English through flashcards and fun games, or designing a vibrant 40m² mural, every task is an opportunity to make a lasting impact. These days are not just about service; they are about building strong bonds with the H’Mong students, learning their language, culture, and sharing their journey.

The focus shifts to cross-cultural exchange. Students from the Singaporean school share their own traditions and experiences with the H’Mong students, and vice versa, in a cultural exchange night full of storytelling, traditional dances, and music performances. It’s an evening of laughter, unity, and discovery—complete with a puppet show about Singapore's history, performed by the students, followed by a joyous campfire gathering that celebrates the beauty of shared experiences.

Participants will visit TraphacoSapa, a leading Vietnamese company that blends traditional knowledge with modern innovation to create social impact. They’ll hear firsthand from the Board of Directors about partnerships with ethnic minority farmers to cultivate artichokes as a sustainable livelihood. The visit showcases how business can empower communities, promote gender equality, and preserve cultural heritage. More than just a company tour, this is a real-world look at social entrepreneurship in action. Students will leave inspired by how values like compassion and collaboration can fuel meaningful change.