Vietnam provides an interesting context concerning development questions. To better learn and take advantage of this, a field excursion will be organized during the semester.

At the end of our 4^th week here in Vietnam, we went to either the Bho Hoong or Dhroong village, where we got to meet the Katu people, an ethnic minority in Vietnam. The field trip was truly a unique experience that I will cherish for a lifetime.

The journey begun from Hoi An, where we sat off in busses early in the morning. After about an hour of winding through mountainous roads, we stopped in a small village for a much-needed coffee break. Along with the coffee, we got to taste some local fruits, like mangosteen and rambutan. By noon, my group arrived in the Bho Hoong village, ready to engage with the local community.

Prior to the field trip, we had been divided into research groups, each with a topic to explore. My group focused on work and livelihood in the community. With the help of our translator from VNUK University in Da Nang, we interviewed locals and gained valuable insights into their daily lives. We conducted interviews with local farmers, businessowners and an elderly leader in the village. It was an authentic learning experience!

No trip is complete without experiencing local cuisine, and we were treated to delicious meals prepared by the villagers. The rice, corn, and pork we enjoyed were staples of their diet, showcasing what the locals produce and eat daily. We were also served tofu, omelets, and sweet potatoes. Everyone ate together, and we were seated on the floor. Sharing meals in this manner fostered a sense of community and appreciation for their culture. After dinner, we went to a hot spring nearby, where we got to see the sunset over the mountains. Some students went for a swim as well!

For our accommodation, we stayed in the community house, central in the village. We slept on the floor, and were provided with pillows, blankets, and mosquito nets. We had to set it up ourselves, which could be somewhat frustrating, but gave us a good laugh after. We also brought cards and some snacks along. This setting also then provided an excellent opportunity for bonding with other classmates.

The highlight of our evening was a cultural dance performed by the local community. It was lively and full of energy, and they even invited us to join in. Afterwards, we played both typical Norwegian and Vietnamese games with the local children, which added even more joy to the night, bridging the gap between cultures through laughter and music. Some of us had also brought some gifts for the locals, mainly Norwegian candies for the kids.

The small villages are located in the Vietnamese highlands, and the level of comfort is not the same as you would be used to from back home, nor in Hoi An. Be prepared for a bit of a rougher night than usual, although this is all a part of the fun!

 

Here are some additional tips on what you could consider bringing:

• Eye Mask & Ear Plugs: Mornings can be noisy, so these could come in handy.
• Comfortable Clothing & Shoes: Lightweight clothes for the day and a jacket for cooler nights in the highlands. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking around the village.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated while being eco-friendly.
• Snacks: Granola bars or small snacks are great for an energy boost.
• Bug Spray & Sunscreen: Protect your skin, as we spent a lot of time outdoors.
• Camera: Many of us brought digital or disposable cameras.
• Gift: Gifting is such a strong culture in Vietnam. Small gifts like candies, chocolate, souvenirs, etc., especially from your home country are recommended to show your appreciation on different occasions, such as when conducting fieldwork.

 

After returning to Hoi An, we presented our findings to the rest of the class, sharing the knowledge and stories we had gathered from our time with the Katu people. If you’re considering studying in Vietnam, this is just one of the many unique experiences you can look forward to. It’s not just about what you learn in the classroom but also the real-world encounters that make the program special.

 

– Carina