We started off the day having breakfast at the hotel buffet, then, we packed our bags and got in the bus for a few hours. When we got off the bus at Can Tho College, we met many friendly Vietnamese english students, including our Pen Pals who we've been talking to via email for around a month. We then sat down amongst the students and started playing ice breaker games, including a game where we hold on to each other in a line, squatting, and race against another team. Then, we took a break and had some snacks while all the students were eager to take selfies with us and get our social media info. When we went outside, we partook in this traditional dance:
After, we went with some of the students to karaoke! In the beginning it was kind of awkward, as everyone was nervous to sing. But soon enough everyone was comfortable, and we had a blast. The coolest part was seeing seemingly shy people come out and get into the groove. Truong was Milo and Kai's pen pal, and he seemed hesitant to step up to the mic, but after an entire room of people yelling at him to sing, he belted out his vocals over "My Heart Will Go On". Someone even recreated the Titanic scene. The best part of today was being able to really see Vietnamese people be themselves amongst us. Throughout the trip people have either been overly kind, neutral, or determined on going to their destination or finishing their goal. But in karaoke, we were singing, laughing, and overall jiving together. It was also interesting getting a more intimate look into Vietnamese culture. When I went in to hug some of the boys, it seemed like they were uncomfortable or didn't expect a hug from a guy. But on the other hand, there was a lot more intimate touching later on once we got to know each other. The end of the karaoke experience marked the beginning and end to an era of the trip. For the first 3 days of the trip we were in the big urban city of Saigon. That ended today, and thrusted forth an era of a more intimate look into Vietnamese culture, with less crowded roads, emptier markets, and tighter knit towns. I feel like this stage of the trip will be a really eye-opening experience, and look forward to it with a open heart and open mind. After another bus ride, we got onto a boat and headed to our home-stay. The rural and forest-like atmosphere contrasted with the urban city-life of Saigon. Overall, today was the most memorable day of the trip thus far, and our interaction with the students will be one of our most treasured travel memories for years to come.
– Jordan and Lamont
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