The Journey of Youth – The Path of Aspirations
The 2024 Vietnam Central Heritage Journey of students from the Faculty of Tourism and Aviation Services (FTAS), Vietnam Aviation Academy, was not merely a practical study tour but also a journey marking growth, aspiration for conquest, and a genuine career experience. From November 26 to December 8, 2024, a total of 157 students from the Tourism and Travel Services Management program embarked on an enriching journey. They honed their skills through each route, discovered historical landmarks, and engaged in meaningful cultural exchanges with students from renowned universities across the country.
FTAS Students Engage in Experiential Learning Through the Vietnam Central and Cross-Country Tour
The trip was divided into two groups: the 13-day, 12-night Cross-Vietnam Tour (November 26 – December 8, 2024) and the 8-day, 7-night Central Vietnam Tour (December 1 – December 8, 2024). The highlight of the journey was the emotional reunion of both groups in Quang Binh and the grand Gala Dinner in the coastal city of Nha Trang, where students, teachers, and friends gathered to reflect on their journey with joy, unity, and pride.
Discover – Learn – Experience Reality
The journey took students through renowned destinations across Central and Northern Vietnam, such as Hoi An Ancient Town, My Son Sanctuary, Phong Nha Cave, Trang An Scenic Complex, Phat Diem Stone Cathedral, Ha Long Bay, and the iconic Fansipan Peak – the Roof of Indochina. Each destination was not only a stunning natural wonder but also a site rich in history, culture, and authentic tourism values.
The student delegation also visited the Truong Son Martyrs’ Cemetery, Dong Loc T-junction, and the Mausoleum of President Ho Chi Minh, where they offered incense and paid tribute to the heroic sacrifices of the nation’s forebears. These solemn moments instilled a profound sense of respect and appreciation for Vietnam’s history and cultural heritage.
FTAS Students Engage in Experiential Learning Through the Vietnam Central and Cross-Country Tour
In addition, students were trained in essential professional skills required for the Tourism and Travel Services Management industry. These skills included tour design, tour operation, tourist guiding, interpretation, event facilitation, problem-solving, and the management of food, accommodation, and recreational activities for tourists. Notably, students had the chance to engage in hands-on practice for each task, facing real-world challenges that provided deeper insights into the profession they are pursuing. This practical experience allowed them to enhance their professional competence, build confidence, and prepare for the demands of their future careers.
FTAS Students Engage in Experiential Learning Through the Vietnam Central and Cross-Country Tour
Academic Exchange – Connecting Students from Two Regions
During the journey, the delegation organized meaningful academic exchange sessions with Ha Long University and Duy Tan University’s Faculty of Tourism. These sessions featured lively discussions on academic programs, scientific research activities, and teaching methodologies. The exchanges not only provided students with an opportunity to broaden their knowledge and perspectives but also fostered collaboration and connection between students from the North and the South of Vietnam.
Quý Thầy Cô SV FTAS trong buổi giao lưu học thuật ý nghĩa với Trường Đại học Hạ Long và Trường Du lịch Đại học Duy Tân
At Ha Long University on November 26, 2024, the delegation was warmly welcomed by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vu Van Vien – Dean of the Faculty of Tourism, Dr. Bui Thu Thuy – Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Tourism, along with faculty members and students of Ha Long University. Both sides engaged in discussions on academic programs, teaching experiences, and had the opportunity to tour the university’s state-of-the-art facilities, including restaurant practice rooms, front desk training areas, housekeeping practice rooms, travel agency simulations, kitchens, bars, and swimming pools. The event also featured a lively cultural exchange, with students from both universities performing vibrant musical and artistic acts, strengthening the bond between the students of Northern and Southern Vietnam.
On December 6, 2024, the delegation continued its academic journey with a meaningful exchange session at the Faculty of Tourism, Duy Tan University. The session was attended by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Cong Hoan – Head of the Faculty of Tourism and Aviation Services, along with accompanying lecturers, including Dr. Pham Thi Quynh Nhu and MSc. Nguyen Thi Thien Trang. Representatives from Duy Tan University included Dr. Bui Kim Luan – Vice Rector, MSc. Pham Thi Hoang Dung – Dean of the Faculty of International Hotel and Restaurant Management, and other faculty members. The exchange allowed students from both universities to engage in academic discussions, share industry knowledge, and participate in vibrant cultural performances, further solidifying the connection between the two academic communities.
Career Experience – A Strong Foundation for the Future
Throughout the practical internship program, students had the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning of core skills essential to the Tourism and Travel Services Management industry. Each student was given the chance to experience real-world tour routes, practice skills in tour management, delegation coordination, tourist guiding, and event facilitation. In addition, crucial skills such as problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and stress management were honed through practical lessons guided by lecturers and the challenges encountered during the journey.
This experience served as a valuable platform for students to bridge the gap between theory and practice, equipping them with the professional knowledge, adaptability, and confidence necessary for future careers in the dynamic tourism and hospitality industry.
FTAS Students Engage in Experiential Learning Through the Vietnam Central and Cross-Country Tour
This experience was not only a professional learning opportunity but also a chance for students to accumulate life experience, providing them with the motivation to better understand their chosen field and gain greater confidence in selecting their future career paths. Through academic exchange sessions with prestigious universities, students broadened their perspectives, learned valuable insights from lecturers and industry experts, and established meaningful connections for their future careers. These experiences serve as a solid foundation, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and network essential for their long-term professional growth.
FTAS Students Engage in Experiential Learning Through the Vietnam Central and Cross-Country Tour
Unforgettable Moments – Lasting Memories of Youth
The journey did not end with just useful lessons but also left behind beautiful memories in the hearts of the students. Once in a lifetime, and forever — that phrase perfectly captures the essence of the 13-day, 12-night adventure through Central and Northern Vietnam. Each breathtaking landscape, each warm shared meal, and each joyful moment at the Gala Dinner filled with laughter and camaraderie will remain cherished memories throughout their student journey. These experiences have become an inseparable part of their youth, reminding them of the bonds they built and the growth they achieved together.
FTAS Students Engage in Experiential Learning Through the Vietnam Central and Cross-Country Tour
Students had the opportunity to eat, live, study, and work together with classmates they had previously only met in the classroom. These unforgettable memories became beautiful milestones in each student’s journey of youth. With the dedicated companionship of their lecturers, students not only gained new knowledge but also learned to become more mature, resilient, and prepared to face the challenges of their future careers. This experience fostered personal growth, strengthened friendships, and left a lasting mark on their student life.
FTAS Students Engage in Experiential Learning Through the Vietnam Central and Cross-Country Tour
Heartfelt Gratitude
The success of this journey would not have been possible without the dedicated support and companionship of the Board of Directors of Vietnam Aviation Academy, the leadership and especially the guidance and mentorship of the esteemed lecturers of the Faculty of Tourism and Aviation Services.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Viet Brand Tourism Company for their support in organizing and coordinating the tour, providing an unforgettable experience for the students of the Faculty of Tourism and Aviation Services. Although the 2024 Cross-Vietnam and Central Vietnam Journey has come to an end, its beautiful memories and profound impact will forever remain in the hearts of all who took part in this incredible adventure.
Post, photos: Huongvtt-FTAS