New Colombo Plan Vietnam Study Tour | 2025

Written by Bachelor of International Relations & Political Science student, Alyce Ferme. 

Our first week in Vietnam as part of the New Colombo Plan has been nothing short of incredible. From wandering through ancient temples to exploring hidden villages, we’ve been immersed in a whirlwind of culture, history, food and breathtaking scenery. With Hanoi as our base, every day has offered new adventures which have given us a deeper appreciation of Vietnam’s rich heritage.

Hanoi itself is a magnificent city. Mopeds weave through busy streets in organised chaos, street vendors sell sweet treats, lantern-lit cafes are tucked down narrow allies and shops overflow with everything you could ever imagine. It’s the perfect mix of ancient traditions and modern vibrancy.

The food has been a highlight – from steaming bowls of pho, to crispy bánh mì baguettes, sweet egg coffee and dainty bánh tráng’s, every meal has been delicious.  

Each day has offered something new. Monday began with a Hanoi City Tour whilst on Tuesday we travelled to Ninh Binh and Wednesday we visited Duong Lam Ancient Village. Thursday took us to Bat Trang Pottery and on Friday, we explored the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. 

Personal highlights have included:

• Train Street: century-old tracks slice right through a row of cafés and homes. Sitting with a drink while locals carried out their daily routines, with trains rumbling past just metres away, was surreal and unforgettable.
• Hỏa Lò Prison: built by the French for political prisoners but was later used during the Vietnam War to hold American POWs. The museum offers a stark reminder of the resilience of those imprisoned there, and the heavy layers of Vietnam’s history.
• Old Quarter: walking the bustling streets with vendors selling everything imaginable - fruit, meat, shoes, clothes, spices.
• Trang An: a 2.5-hour boat ride through the landscape, drifting along stunning waterways, ducked under limestone caves filled with glowing stalactites and marvelled at the surrounding cliffs covered in jungle greenery.
• Vietnam Military History Museum: thoroughly interesting to learn the stories of Vietnam’s long struggle for independence. By chance, we also caught a live rehearsal for a military performance celebrating their new Commander.
• Museum of Ethnology: an eye-opening look into the country’s 54 different ethnic groups. We were able to see how geography and culture shape daily life across Vietnam. It was fascinating to learn about the diversity that exists within one nation.