Hello from the 2016 Team!

Cleo Stratton, 3rd year Tourism Management Student

Natalia Pisarek, 1st year Outdoor Recreation Management Student

Sarah Constable, 4th year Tourism Management Student

Justina Lee, 4th year Tourism Management Student

"We got it! Me, you, Cleo, and Natalia!" 

That was the message I received from Sarah before I even had the chance to check my emails that day. What followed after was an overwhelming feeling of happiness mixed with disbelief. The entire application and interview process was so intensive, and the other applicants performed so admirably, that I wouldn't have been the least bit surprised if I didn't make it. So naturally when the news arrived, I was absolutely speechless. 

I’ve known about CBT Vietnam for a couple years now, but the thought of applying never crossed my mind simply because the timing never seemed to be right. It wasn’t until late last year that I really began to think about the project. When Chris striked up a conversation about the project, I was immediately intrigued. The stories he had to tell, combined with the passion he had for the cause, made me feel incredibly compelled to go. By the time the topic of finding new volunteers to fill their vacant positions came up in conversation, I was already prepared to apply.

The whole process, from being accepted to having our first training/information meeting with Chris, has been nothing but smooth thus far. Getting to know the other three ladies was an event in and of itself! In an attempt to have our first “formal” introductions, we ended up grabbing lunch at an authentic pho restaurant, and spent a good hour or so just getting to know each other. Really though, it was just four women with a similar goal to go to Vietnam and make a small but meaningful impact in community tourism. We chatted, we ate, we laughed, we discussed some business, and then we laughed some more. 

I am honoured to be a part of this incredible project and look forward to the opportunity to step up and do my absolute best. Only three months until we depart for Vietnam, but I already know that this experience will be nothing short of amazing.

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Late night memories from Lao Chai

I can't believe we have been home from Vietnam for a week already! Saying "see you later" to Vietnam was sad, but I left the trip with so many special memories. There is one particular that keeps bringing a smile back to my face.

While in the village of Lao Chai, I got to spend the day helping the villagers prepare to meet tour operators in Hanoi with the CBT Team. Our training session was held at Ms. May's beautiful house. I was so impressed with how eager the women were to learn what Mia and I were teaching. Frequently, I thought back to moments when I was in the classroom at Capilano University, where it seemed as though none of my classmates were paying attention to the content that they had paid tuition to learn. This was not the case in Lao Chai! After each concept we covered about professionalism during business meetings, the women would burst into excited discussion. There was a keen interest from the villagers to learn  above and beyond what we had taught them already. Ms. Do (pronounced "z-uh") for example, was so excited about practicing her new English words that she asked if she could meet Mia and I later that evening to practice her pronunciation. We were more than happy to help! 

At the end of the day, we had the opportunity to stay overnight at Ms. Xung's home stay. Ms. Dq joined us after dinner so that we could help her go over some of the food vocabulary items she was struggling with. If I had been in Vancouver, I would have simply pulled up images on my computer to help her visualize the words she was saying. However, because we didn't have laptops or Internet available, I tried my best to draw examples of what we were talking about. Despite my lack of artistic skill, she seemed to understand and remember the words a lot better with the drawings. It was such a pleasure helping her practice new words! She was so happy to be learning something new that she almost lost track of time. We eventually had to call it a night because the next day we would be bringing the villagers to Hanoi.

As I head into my final semester of my Bachelor of Tourism Management at Capilano University, I will dearly remember that night with Ms. Dq.  Because of her passion for learning, I will take with me a renewed enthusiasm for my education. It's amazing how it can be taken for granted when you've been in school for a while. Teaching Ms. Dq was an excellent reminder to be appreciative of the opportunities that I have been given, and to push myself to keep learning.

 

Photo taken by Mia Chiappetta McCannel

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Driving lessons from Hanoi

Walking through traffic in Vietnam is like diving head first into a dance that you don't know all of the moves to. If done incorrectly... you look like an idiot. Or (even worse!) you may seriously injure yourself. Personally, I've found that it's easiest to cross the street if you act confident. All you have to do is pretend like you know exactly what you're doing, as if you've had motorbikes speeding towards you from all directions for your entire life. 

The Vietnamese seem to drive with their ears as much as their eyes while on the streets of Hanoi. When I first arrived, I had assumed the constant sound of horns was solely due to driver frustration. However, I have since learned that (some!) of the honking is just used to indicate to other drivers that someone would like to pass by, which helps keep the traffic moving. There is a method to the chaos.

The flow of traffic never really seems to stop here. The buses, cars, motorbikes, and pedestrians all seem to blur into each other in a never ending weave of colours and sounds. It's no wonder that I'm finding it so easy to get lost here.

Overall, I have found that the people in Hanoi are as warm as the weather is outside. Which is to say, incredibly warm! They are some of the most hospitable and welcoming people I have had the pleasure to meet. Several have even offered to let me experience Vietnam on the back of their motorbikes! You may not be seeing me on the back of one of those just yet, but maybe one day. After all, there are still a few days left of the trip!

Photo by Kyle Sandilands

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A Vegan's Guide To Eating In Hanoi

As a vegan, I was skeptical of the ability to maintain my dietary lifestyle upon arrival to Hanoi. I had come to terms with the fact that, more likely than not, I would be required to consume some form of animal byproduct during my stay. Nonetheless, with 10 days passed since my arrival, maintaining my vegan lifestyle in Vietnam has proven to be easier than I had originally thought.  

Hanoi has no shortage of restaurants, and thanks to its large Buddhist population, vegetarian food is of ample supply.  The trick is to know where to look.  The word chay (meaning 'vegetarian') is regularly displayed on restaurant menus, with some restaurants even having a separate vegetarian menu all together. And if by chance there is nothing listed on the menu, restaurant staff are always willing to accommodate. With a few simple phrases such as "khong nuoc man" (no fish sauce), and "khong trung" (no egg), you're sure to find a true vegan meal!

    

Photos taken by Mia Chiappetta McCannel

Although I've kept most of my meals pretty simple (mostly consisting of tofu, rice, and vegetables) many restaurants also offer "mock meat" dishes. Now, for all of you skeptics assuming that vegan food in Vietnam must be bland and boring... Boy, are you wrong! The flavour found in vegetarian Vietnamese cuisine would have any omnivore drooling.  

I was lucky enough to stumble across Zenith Cafe, a strictly vegan restaurant with an attached yoga studio. After an early morning yoga class in Zenith's treetop studio, I devoured a delicious mixed vermicelli noodle dish. For those seeking more traditional Western food, the menu also offered a caramelized zucchini & black bean burger, which undoubtedly was the best vegan burger I've ever had.  

 

                                                            Mixed Vermicelli Noodle Dish

    Yoga Studio at Zenith Yoga

                                  Zucchini & Black Bean Burger with Freshed Pressed Carrot Juice

To finish off a meal, Hanoi offers an array of delectable fruits. Dragonfruits, longan berries, and papaya are seemingly popular; however, for those adventurous types... be sure to try durian! It is a true delicacy in Vietnam, and is certainly not for everyone. A durian's creamy texture and nutritional benefits provide clear examples of why the fruit is commonly known as the "King of Fruits".  Just as long as you can get over its distinctive odor and pungent smell, durian is surely a must try when in Vietnam.       

                                                           Fresh Durian & Dragon Fruit

Being vegan in Vietnam does require some extra precaution and regard. Nonetheless, over the short time I've spent in Hanoi, I have already sampled some of the most robustly flavourful dishes I've ever had! My mouth is salivating simply at the thought of my next meal.  And with that being said, its time for me to head out and discover a new place to eat. Bon appetite!  

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Touchdown in Taipei!

After a (surprisingly!) easy 12-hour flight from Vancouver to Taipei, Mia and I have finally landed on solid ground again! Despite the jetlag, we navigated the airport with ease. Our combined past travel experiences have made us experts at getting through security in no time at all. 

                         

                                                            Photo taken by Megan Sadler

To prepare for our long journey, Mia had approximately 8 cups of coffee with her mom, while adding the last few important items into her carry on bag. I spent the day prior to the flight packing (and repacking) and triple checking that I had all my important things ready to go (passport, money, and letters from home to keep the homesickness at bay!). It feels like we have been preparing for this trip for ages, and now it's finally here! 

                                     

                                                                      Photo taken by Megan Sadler

In a few short hours, we will be touching down in Hanoi. I've got to keep this post short, otherwise we will miss our flight! Keep checking for more updates on our adventure!

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Viêt Nam Trong Trái Tim Tôi: Vietnam is Always in My Heart

My trip with CBT Vietnam was my first time ever visiting an Eastern Culture, but I knew I was ready to be taken out of my comfort zone and try something new. After months of anticipation, and hours of preparation the day had finally arrived to depart for Hanoi.

While I was in Vietnam one of my largest tasks was to photograph every homestay and homestay owner in the Lao Chai and Ta Phin villages. I thoroughly enjoyed capturing moments from behind a lens, however I made sure to put them down for allotted times to soak in the culture as well.

In Ta Phin, Henry, Chung and I photo documented 12 homestays in one morning. That day I learnt that no matter how much I have to get done, I must stop and eat. Stopping to sharpen your axe could get you through the tree faster than continuing to chop with a blunt axe. The next day we began to document the homestays and small shops, and it would be four days before all 19 units were trekked to and documented.

This was an amazing task to be a part of because not only do I now have over 3,000 photos for my memories, but I also got a small glimpse of over 30 homes and the way 30 different families live their lives.

One of the large aspects to the trip was to prepare 12 of the village members for their trip to Hanoi in August.   My task was to facilitate learning around business development and finance to tie into my partner Marina’s lessons of presentation skills. The first lesson to break the ice I put an assortment of plastic toy animals on the table and got people to explain why they would be such animal. This helped to give me insight into their confident areas and helped to get people comfortable and laughing.

The Black H’mong had a good understanding as to what needed to be done to establish a sustainable homestay, however their main issue was finding the financial means. However, those who have found the financial means to change their homes have seen an improvement in their quality of life and that helps to encourage other families to get started who have a desire to improve their lives as well.

My favorite lesson I did was on the second day when I discussed business financing. To start the lesson off I asked everyone what they would do if they won the lottery for 5 Million Ɖ ($5,000 USD) as the introduction, and the reactions were enlightening. Every purchase was to improve the life of their entire family from a car to safely travel, to sending their kids to post-secondary school.

I had many members of the Lao Chai village come up and personally thank me for the information they received through that lesson which felt very rewarding.

All in all, the CBT Vietnam project is the coolest thing I have experienced in my life, and I would do it again in a heartbeat. I learnt so much about myself and my goals. Having an experience like this helped me to reevaluate my life intentions and what my needs as a human are to truly achieve happiness. I left this project feeling I had made some new close friends with the team I came with, and I feel I truly helped to make a difference in the village through the learning I helped to facilitate. On my last night in Hanoi I found an old propaganda poster that spoke to me, and I feel after this trip of a lifetime will remain true and relevant in my life. Viêt Nam Trong Trái Tim Tôi: Vietnam is always in my heart.

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First Day in the Villages

The train from Hanoi to Lao Cai was quite the experience. We all slept like babies from the rocking of the train. However, at one point I was awoken by heavy swaying and I could have sworn we were going to tip off the tracks. Luckily, though, we did not and slowly fell off to sleep again.

At 5:30 am, we hear knocking on the doors all down the train car letting us know that we are arriving! My first thought of the scenery of this region was that of amazement. The expansiveness of the rolling mountain hills covered in rice patties along the winding roads was pretty spectacular, which trust me it only got better.

When we arrived to Sapa it was the beginning of a national holiday in Vietnam. Right away we could tell that this is a hot spot for the local tourists. It was only 7:00 am and the streets were already crowded with Vietnamese vacationers walking below the french style buildings Sapa is famous for. We dropped off our bags at the beautiful, recently renovated Mountainview Backpacker’s Hostel, and headed up the hill for a delicious breakfast.

After, Chris rounded us up with some Xeoms (motorbike taxis) to take us to check out all of the villages that the CBT Vietnam project has worked with over the years. We had wind in our hair, winding down the steep mountainous roads that overlook one of the most beautiful places. Can’t get much better than that!

The group then pulled into Tavan for our first lunch in a village, and do they ever cook amazing food. Usually, the meals in the villages consists of rice, a few different types of protein and some veggies. As well as, the best spring rolls! 

On this first day we opted to save Lao Chai for the following day as we would be there all week. Tonight was all about Ta Phin and checking out how our most recently completed phase of CBT Vietnam’s project is doing. We stayed at the lovely Ly May Lai’s home with her husband, their 3-yr old baby, along with a few other trekkers. Her and husband built a beautiful new home that can be easily recognized by its bright red roof. We were pleased to see that when they planned the construction of their new home they kept it inline with the traditional Red Dao homes. This shows that they understand the importance of their culture and keeping their home authentic if they want to sustain their tourism business. The evening continued with many laughs and jokes were shared over dinner and plenty of rice wine. 

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Throw Back Thursday

It's only one and a half weeks until Kyle, Marina, Chris and Henry depart for their trip to Vietnam! Which means that it's only four months until I (Sam!) return to Lao Chai with Megan, Mia and Henry.

One year ago today, the 2014 CBT Vietnam team carefully balanced exams and trip prepping for the one-month long, 10-person trip.

Its incredible to think back to the stress and excitement we felt, through all of the tears and panicked calls, as we prepared for our month long trip in Vietnam. But the experience was completely worth all that we went through.

Photo courtesy of Samantha Macgregor

Today, as a new graduate (albeit my final grades are still to come) of the Bachelor of Tourism Management Program, I am sitting helping the 2015 teams (April and August) prepare for the upcoming trips.

As per tradition, we met for Vietnamese food at V-Nam in North Vancouver. Megan tried pork for the first time in years (in preparation for eating village food) and we  are still working on Mia, our resident vegetarian, to try meat before our trip begins in August. Some ordered and tried new dishes, while others (like myself!) went with their old favourites.

Getting to sit in and help with the new team it is incredible... It's amazing to see all that they have accomplished, and how they are using their strengths and working together as a cohesive unit. There is no doubt in my mind about the numerous success and educational experience they will bring to the village of Lao Chai.

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International Women's Day!

Once again, International Women’s Day is upon us. This is a special day that is not only celebrated here in Canada, but also all around the world, including in Vietnam! The CBT Vietnam team would like to celebrate all of the women that we have had the privilege of working with over the course of this project. To all of the women that have helped us to make this project the success that it is today, we truly wish to thank you.

Vietnam has a long history of trying to create a gender-equal society that surpasses many countries around the world. Women in Vietnam have many guaranteed rights that include property rights, policies for political participation, maternity benefits and rights to make reproductive decisions¹. Additionally, there is not much difference in the labour force participation, with 83 percent working-age women in the work force compared to 85 percent men. In 2006 - 2007, Vietnam made another step in the right direction for women's rights by establishing both a gender equality law and anti-domestic violence law; this is something only a few countries have enacted ². Way to go Vietnam!!

On International Women’s Day in Vietnam, men and other women show their appreciation through flowers, cards and kind greetings. So get out there and show your love to the women in your lives, be it your mom, sister, daughter, wife, girlfriend or friend! Trust me, it won’t go unnoticed. Now, excuse me while I go phone my mom...

                                                                                       

¹ Wells, Melissa. Viet Nam Gender Situation Analysis. (2005). Asian Development Bank. Retrieved from http://doc.iiep.unesco.org/wwwisis/repdoc/SEM313/SEM313_17_eng.pdf

² Kelly, Kristy. (2011). Vietnam Case Study: Women in Educational Leadership and Management. UNESCO. Retrieved from http://doc.iiep.unesco.org/wwwisis/repdoc/SEM313/SEM313_17_eng.pdf 

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Tết Nguyên Đán!

The CBT Vietnam team would like to wish everyone a happy new year!

Tết Nguyên Đán (or Tết for short), translates to “the first morning of the first day” in Vietnamese. This celebration is one of the biggest and most important for our friends in Vietnam. I’ve heard that there is some debate over whether or not this Lunar New Year is the Year of the Goat or the Year of the Sheep. In Vietnam, it is considered to be the Year of the Goat. In an article I read, goats are much more common in Vietnam due to the heat, which is one of the reasons why it is not referred to as the Year of the Sheep.

Thank you Sam for contributing these awesome photos from your time in Vietnam!
Much like the festivities that I go to for New Year’s Eve, this time of year for the Vietnamese is all about celebrating with friends and family and eating lots of great food. I’ve always found it interesting when you are able to draw parallels between different customs in various countries. Even though it is so far away from Canada, Vietnam may not be so different after all! However, unlike the New Years that I grew up celebrating every year, on December 31^st, Lunar New Year has a different day each year. This year, it fell on February 19, and in 2016 it will be celebrated on February 8.

I was born in the Year of the Rooster. After doing some research, I learned that Roosters are generally considered to be hardworking, courageous, talented, attractive and beautiful… I swear I’m not making this up!

I found the whole research really interesting and looked into other information about my other 2015 CBT Vietnam teammates as well.

Marina was born in the Year of the Horse. Horses are considered to be extremely animated, active and energetic. Knowing what I do about Marina’s personality, I would definitely say this is an accurate description of her.  Mia was born in the Year of the Monkey. Monkeys are typically known for their mischievousness, curiosity, and cleverness. Monkeys are also thought to be the “masters of practical jokes”. We may need to keep an eye on Mia, (just kidding!). Kyle was born in the Year of the Pig. Pigs are believed to be diligent, compassionate, and generous. Pigs also have great concentration: once they become focused on a goal, they will be completely dedicated to reaching it. Hopefully Kyle can apply that focus to the training manual he is currently working on to guide us when we are over in Vietnam.

On February 8, 2016 Vietnam will bring in the year of the monkey – but until then, bring on the Year of the Goat!

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Vietnamese? Yes Please!

Today, Kyle, Mia and I (Megan!) decided to expand our culinary horizons and try out some Vietnamese food together! We visited V Nam in North Vancouver. After much deliberation over the menu, the food arrived, piping hot and ready to eat.

Kyle, about to dig in!

Kyle, despite his love of chicken, opted to try something the waitress recommended to him. He ended up getting a beef dish, called Pho Tai Bo Vien. This dish looked so good, I am definitely going to have to try it when I get to Vietnam, if not sooner!

Mia is ready to chow down!

Mia is a vegetarian, and had the vegetable stir fry with vermicelli. Before we head over to Vietnam, we are going to try to get her to eat meat, because it is such a staple food in Vietnam. Mia and I won’t be heading over until August, so for now she gets a pass with the veggie dish.

Here's hoping I don't have food stuck in my teeth while I pose with my delicious food.

I had the Chicken Chow Mein, which was delicious. The sauce had just enough kick to it and the vegetables tasted so fresh. The noodles were rich and flavourful. I realized that I may need some more practice using chopsticks after Kyle and Mia finished eating much faster than I did.

Over lunch, we talked about places we are hoping to travel and what we want to do with ourselves once we've finished school. It was such a pleasure getting to know the people that I am going to be working on this amazing project with. I think our personalities complement each other really well and I can’t wait until our next meeting.

Near the end of our meal, Chris stopped by! We further discussed some of the exciting initiatives that we are going to be putting forth soon to get the project as much exposure as possible. I have a feeling that this won't be the only time we go out for Vietnamese food together. The only thing that will make our future lunch dates better is the lovely Marina joining us! 

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Drumroll Please...

The four students for the 2015 CBT Vietnam team have been selected!

I am proud to say I am joining one of the best teams here at Capilano University. The selection process was intense, fun, and competitive but all four of us agreed it was well worth the effort. We are immensely excited to contribute to this amazing project and are ready to get to work!

Now without further adieu, let me introduce the newest members!

First, we have Mia. She was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba but considers herself a true Islander, having grown up in Victoria, BC. Mia is most excited about embracing a new culture, as well as working alongside the women and children of the Lao Chai Community. Mia's favourite foods are sweet potatoes and sushi. Fun fact: Mia was a competitive gymnast for 12 years! 

Mia running a marathon!

Kyle was born in the Canadian capital of Ottawa; however, he found his love for the outdoors growing up in Washington state. Kyle is excited for the opportunity to experience a new environment and to build a trail in the mountainous region of Sapa, Vietnam! He has a love for any kind of chicken dish. On another note, he loves to mountain bike in his spare time.

Kyle kayaking in the Pacific Northwest.

Megan was born and raised in North Vancouver. She loves working with people, and is excited to get to know the locals of Vietnam. Megan is terrified of heights, but despite her fear has tried gliding, zip-lining,  climbed the Eiffel Tower and has even hiked the Atlas Mountains! Her favourite food is anything with cheese. Fun Fact: if you scramble up the letters in her first and last name it spells "Angel Dreams".

Megan hanging out with a camel.

And finally there's myself, Marina! I was born and raised in Vancouver with a love for anything by the sea. What I am most excited about Vietnam is to meet the people of the Lao Chai community and exchange knowledge and experiences with everyone I encounter. My favourite food is anything spicy, and I can usually be found in the kitchen cooking up a storm!

After a hike up The Chief in Squamish, B.C.

Keep an eye on our blog, as we will be posting our entire journey here!

Thank you #PATAFoundation and #CapU. And thank you #CBTVietnam for picking us!

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CBT Vietnam Project welcomes another new group of students

A year ago I sat in a classroom with 25 other students hoping that I would somehow give the best possible impression, make the cut for an invitation into the individual interview and eventually be asked to be a part of the CBT Vietnam Project. The group interview is one of the most daunting parts of the application process. You go in with little understanding of what is going to go on and have to work with 20+ people of varying personalities, strengths and weaknesses. I was lucky enough that to go through the entire process and was selected to onto the team to travel to Vietnam in May 2014.

This year was different. Invited to sit in the classroom and watch a new group of 20 students try out for the project brought back a moment of reflection. I knew what they are going through and what they were thinking while being explained the process. The format of the group interview is innovative and full of surprises. While the applicants have no idea what is going on, there really is a method to the madness.

So now, nearly a full year later a new group of four has been selected. They get to be welcomed into one of the best families within Capilano University. A group on individuals who are former and current teachers, past and current students and many more who have had put in their time, energy and creativity into the award winning project. They will have a support network that spans the globe with members located in every corner who are all ready to offer support.

To the newest members of the CBT Vietnam Project: welcome! Welcome to newest chapter of your life.  

To meet past and current project volunteer go check out our Team Page.

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