31 October, 2025

From mountains to coastlines: BIS Hanoi students embark on unforgettable learning journeys across Vietnam

From mountains to coastlines: BIS Hanoi students embark on unforgettable learning journeys across Vietnam - BIS Hanoi students embark on unforgettable learning journeys across Vietnam
BIS Hanoi students embark on unforgettable learning journeys across Vietnam
This term, students from Years 7 to 13 at BIS Hanoi embarked on a series of enriching residential trips across Vietnam. Each journey was designed to foster personal growth, cultural understanding, and a spirit of adventure. From the peaceful valleys of Mai Châu to the dramatic limestone cliffs of Cát Bà Island, the misty peaks of Sa Pa, and the highland forests of Đà Lạt, students embraced a wide range of experiences that challenged them physically, intellectually, and socially. These trips supported our curriculum goals while offering unforgettable opportunities to connect with nature and local communities.

Year 7 – Mai Chau Cultural Discovery

Year 7 students explored the beautiful Ban Lac village, engaging in hikes, weaving workshops, bamboo rice cooking, and scavenger hunts. The Bamboo Challenge showcased their creativity and teamwork, while evening activities like traditional dance and a talent show added fun and connection. A tree-planting service project on the final day allowed students to reflect on their impact. They returned with new friendships and a deeper appreciation for Vietnamese culture.

Year 8 – Cat Ba Island Adventure

Year 8 enjoyed an action-packed trip to Cát Bà Island, taking part in raft building, orienteering, jungle cave hikes, kayaking, and rock climbing. Students showed impressive teamwork and resilience, especially during the raft challenge and kayaking games. Evening highlights included visits to the night market, traditional dance, and a lively talent show. They returned with lasting memories and a great sense of accomplishment.

Year 9 – Sa Pa Cultural & Outdoor Experience

From mountains to coastlines: BIS Hanoi students embark on unforgettable learning journeys across Vietnam - BIS Hanoi students embark on unforgettable learning journeys across Vietnam

In Sa Pa, Year 9 students hiked to Fansipan Peak, explored the Buffalo Trail, and took part in survival workshops and the Bamboo Irrigation Challenge. Cultural activities included Hmong cooking, knot tying, and souvenir shopping. A tree-planting project allowed students to give back to the community. Their enthusiasm and teamwork were evident throughout, and they returned proud and inspired.

Year 10 – Da Lat Highland Outdoor Adventure

Year 10 students ventured to Bidoup Nui Ba National Park in Đà Lạt, where they tackled high ropes, ziplining, canyoning, and a STEM-based raft-building challenge. They also contributed to the One Billion Trees Initiative, reforesting areas around the park. The Alpine Coaster and SUP challenge added extra thrills. Students demonstrated leadership and resilience throughout this rewarding adventure.

Year 11 – Thác Bà Lake Cultural Experience

At Thác Bà Lake, Year 11 students stayed in a local homestay and took part in raft building, navigation hikes, and campfire craft sessions. They engaged with the community through village walks, traditional medicine workshops, and shrimp trap weaving. Cooking with homestay staff brought everyone together. The trip encouraged independence and cultural awareness, leaving students with lasting memories.

Year 12 – Mai Châu Service & Cultural Immersion

From mountains to coastlines: BIS Hanoi students embark on unforgettable learning journeys across Vietnam - BIS Hanoi students embark on unforgettable learning journeys across Vietnam

Year 12 students contributed to a sustainable development project in Mai Châu, built rafts, cooked bamboo rice, and took part in weaving workshops. Exchange activities with local children fostered genuine connections, while the final evening featured traditional dance and a communal meal. Students returned with strengthened leadership skills and a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s cultural landscape.

Year 13 – Cat Ba Island Final Year Adventure

Year 13 students celebrated their final school year with a trip to Cát Bà Island. They cycled through Viet Hai village, kayaked in Lan Ha Bay, and tackled rock climbing challenges. Beach games and environmental efforts added to the experience. A bamboo weaving workshop and lively karaoke evenings created lasting memories. The trip was a fitting conclusion to their BIS journey.

Across all year groups, students demonstrated remarkable enthusiasm, adaptability, and kindness. Whether building rafts, planting trees, navigating forest trails, or engaging in cultural exchanges, they consistently embodied the BIS values of respect, integrity, and care. These trips not only strengthened friendships and developed leadership skills, but also deepened students’ appreciation for Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and the way they embraced every challenge with positivity and curiosity. As they return to the classroom, they bring with them lasting memories, valuable lessons, and a renewed sense of confidence and connection.