Travel and tourism students ‘lifechanging’ trip to Vietnam

Travel and tourism students at Coleg Sir Gâr have recently returned from what they are describing as a ‘lifechanging visit’ to Vietnam. 

The Taith-funded eight-day trip, took eight students to Ho Chi Minh City and specifically linked them with Thu Duc College of Technology (TDC). 

Dr Andrew Cornish, principal and CEO at Coleg Sir Gâr has been developing links with Vietnam for the past four years.

During the visit, he signed a memorandum of understanding, which was included in a special event which saw special guests attending, including the British Consulate, British Ambassador and local television news teams.

Coleg Sir Gâr travel and tourism lecturer Beverley James said: “This trip has been a truly life-changing experience for our students.

“The impact has been incredible - we’ve had heartfelt messages from parents telling us their young people have come back more confident, motivated, and full of ambition. Many are now considering gap years, future travels, and are excited to explore careers in the travel and tourism industry.

“Our students have grown both personally and academically through this immersive journey. It was a privilege to explore Vietnam’s rich culture and history, especially seeing it through local eyes at the War Remnants Museum. The kindness and hospitality we received was unforgettable.  Experiences like this bring the curriculum to life and offer our learners a global perspective that’s invaluable in today’s world. We’re proud to offer opportunities like these that inspire, educate, and empower our students.”

One of the most powerful lessons I’ve brought home is that travel changes you. You don’t return the same person who left. I discovered strength in myself that I didn’t know was there. I found that with the right environment and support, I could adapt, grow, and even thrive.” Mia Bowskill

Vietnam taught me to be present, to be grateful, and to never underestimate the power of kindness. I met people who gave so freely of themselves: their stories, their time, their generosity. It reminded me of how connected we all are, no matter where we come from. Mia Bowskill, Travel & Tourism Student

Students spent two days at TDC and both Vietnamese and Welsh parties shared a cultural day where they sang and displayed traditional dances and shared each other’s languages, including Vietnamese, English and Welsh. 

They had the opportunity of visiting the pagodas, climbed the statue of Christ of Vũng Tàu and tried out the Củ Chi Tunnels and visited the War Remnants Museum. 

Travel and tourism student Mia Bowskill said: “Travelling to Vietnam was more than just a trip; it was a life-changing experience. It was the first time I had travelled without my family, and I carried a heavy mix of emotions with me: excitement, gratitude, fear, and uncertainty. 

“I felt deeply honoured to have been given this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, yet part of me wondered if I was truly ready. I’ve faced my share of personal struggles, and I questioned how I’d cope so far from home, in a place completely unknown.

“But sometimes, all it takes is one leap of faith, with the right people beside you, to show you what you’re really capable of.

“From the moment I arrived in Vietnam, I was met with experiences that opened my heart and mind. I was immersed in a culture so rich in history and resilience that it made me reflect deeply on my own. I learned to appreciate not just the beauty of another country, but the quiet strength in my own roots. I realised that our Welsh culture, language, and heritage are something to be proud of - something to carry with confidence.

“Vietnam taught me to be present, to be grateful, and to never underestimate the power of kindness. I met people who gave so freely of themselves: their stories, their time, their generosity. It reminded me of how connected we all are, no matter where we come from.

“One of the most powerful lessons I’ve brought home is that travel changes you. You don’t return the same person who left. I discovered strength in myself that I didn’t know was there. I found that with the right environment and support, I could adapt, grow, and even thrive.

“None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of my tutors, Bev and Mags. Their belief in me, before, during, and after the trip, gave me so much courage. They didn’t just support me; they helped me see the potential in myself and realise that I can do the things I want to do in life.”

Mags Walters, travel and tourism lecturer at Coleg Sir Gâr added: “We had an incredible time with the fantastic people we met there. 

“It’s a very similar culture to ours as Vietnamese people are really proud of their culture, their food and their history.”