Indochina Immersion Trip

In the early hours of April 9, four Year 11 and four Year 12 students, accompanied by the wonderful Ms. Murphy, Ms. Contos, and Mr. O’Connell, departed from Sydney Airport on an adventure to Vietnam. Upon arriving in Hanoi, they were immediately enchanted by the bustling streets and vibrant city lights. On their first day, they had the unique opportunity to view Ho Chi Minh’s body, which has been impeccably preserved for fifty years.

The following day, the group travelled to Halong Bay for a cruise, enjoying lunch while sailing through the stunning Bai Tu Long Bay. They explored the famous Thien Canh Son Cave and kayaked among the mystical mountains. The next stop was Hue, a smaller city rich with Vietnam’s ancestral history, where they visited various pagodas and temples. The local markets provided a chance to experience the vibrant culture of Hue and discover some incredible bargains.

In Ho Chi Minh City, the group visited the renowned Cu Chi Tunnel system, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Saigon Post Office. A visit to the Long Tan Battlefield offered a sobering insight into the harsh conditions endured by Australian troops. As their time in Vietnam concluded, they ventured to Cambodia to learn about the harrowing Cambodian Genocide, visiting the Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields.

On their final day, they explored the magnificent Angkor Wat complex, marvelling at its astounding architecture. The group returned to Sydney all too soon, cherishing unforgettable memories of being immersed in a culture with a history spanning thousands of years.