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Spring at Sage: Vietnam

How does Vietnam balance modernization with the preservation of cultural identity?

May 21 to 30, 2027

Navigate Ha Long Bay by boat, encounter ancient pagodas, and enjoy authentic art and performances in Vietnam–one of the world’s few countries where deep historical traditions and rapid modern development exist side by side. From historic landmarks and cultural practices to community connections and natural landscapes, students gain a well-rounded perspective on Vietnam today, culminating in an exploration of iconic limestone seascapes, caves, and more.

It is fascinating for its ability to maintain strong cultural identity while continuously evolving in response to global, social, and environmental change. Through time spent in both urban and rural settings, this program offers insight into daily life, longstanding traditions, and the country’s dynamic future.

Itinerary at a Glance

Begin the journey from Los Angeles to Vietnam.

Cross the international date line. Don’t worry, you’ll get this day back on your return.

Walk through Hanoi’s Old Quarter to observe street commerce and daily life, then visit the Temple of Literature to explore Vietnam’s educational and Confucian heritage.

Learn traditional pottery techniques in a Bat Trang ceramic workshop, meet an organization working at the forefront of modernization and enjoy a traditional water puppet performance.

Visit KOTO Training Centre to see how hospitality education creates opportunity for disadvantaged youth. Share lunch with the community, then master the techniques behind Vietnam’s distinctive egg coffee before traveling to Ninh Bình.

Meet endangered primates at Cuc Phuong National Park and support conservation through a hands-on service activity. Speak with a community or political leader about green development, then try đá cầu and badminton.

Travel by traditional hand-rowed boat through Trang An’s caves and waterways. At Hoa Lu, explore temples and stories connected to leadership, dynastic memory and the formation of the Vietnamese state.

Visit a Muong village for dance and seasonal activities such as rice planting, fish-catching or cooking. Climb Hang Mua’s stone steps for sweeping views across the karst landscape.

Cruise among limestone islands, kayak or swim in sheltered waters, join a cooking demonstration and watch the sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin.

Explore the cave landscape by bamboo boat before beginning the journey home. Land on the same day you departed.

Please note: due to a variety of changing circumstances, itineraries are subject to change. Where originally planned activities cannot be delivered, every effort will be made to offer a similar alternative.

What’s included

  • Round trip flights
  • Local transportation
  • Accommodations
  • Meals and water
  • Program activities and experiences
  • Global facilitators
  • Local guides

Important Considerations

Expect tropical heat, humidity, and insects; Hanoi can also experience reduced air quality.

Modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is required at religious and historic sites.

Discussions may reference the Vietnam War and later global conflicts.

Expect moderate activity, including city walking, nature experiences and a 500-step viewpoint climb. Swim tests are required for water activities.

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