Creating Spaces, Creating Smiles
Hanoi and Ninh Bình offer students two perspectives on how people shape—and care for—the places they share. From Hanoi’s busy neighbourhoods and living heritage to Ninh Bình’s limestone landscapes and conservation spaces, this program explores the connections between community, creativity, and environmental responsibility.
This program brings students together with Think Playground, a Hanoi-based social enterprise, to help create and improve play spaces for children. Through collaborative design and hands-on work, students explore how thoughtful public spaces can support child development, inclusion, and stronger communities.
Beyond the project, students encounter Vietnam’s cultural traditions through museums, craft workshops, and historic sites before travelling to Ninh Bình to learn about wildlife protection and ethical tourism. Across the journey, they reflect on how practical action, local knowledge, and shared responsibility can contribute to more sustainable communities.
Day 1
Morning: Take a flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi.
Afternoon: Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport at 20:20, you’ll be welcomed by your guide.
Transfer to your downtown hotel for check-in, rest, and acclimation.
Sample Itinerary
Day 2
Morning: Visit the Museum of Ethnology, which showcases the diverse cultures of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. Students will have the chance to explore through a fun “photo hunt” activity.
Afternoon: Head to Bat Trang Ceramic Village, where you’ll join a hands-on pottery workshop with local artisans. Students will learn traditional techniques and create their own ceramic piece to take home as a special memory.
Evening: The day concludes with dinner in Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter, followed by an evening walking tour through its maze-like streets, alive with lights and sounds
Day 3
Morning & Afternoon: Begin a two-day collaboration with Think Playground, a local social enterprise dedicated to creating creative and sustainable play spaces for children. You will take part in activities such as designing, painting, constructing ground elements, or renovating playgrounds, while also learning about the importance of play in child development and community building.
Evening: Return to your hotel in Hanoi in the evening for reflection.
Day 4
Morning and Afternoon: Continue your work with Think Playground, deepening your connection with the community and making a meaningful contribution to the project. After another lunch at the site, you’ll return to Hanoi.
Afternoon: After dinner, take time for reflection and enjoy a relaxed evening.
Reminder: Every school trip is unique! We’re happy to tailor the trip length, activities, and accommodations to match your school’s needs and learning objectives.
Contact us to create a personalized educational travel experience for your students!
Day 6
Morning: Begin your final day with a peaceful boat trip in Tam Coc, often referred to as “Halong Bay on land,” where you’ll glide along the river surrounded by towering karst formations and lush green fields.
Afternoon: Transfer back to Hanoi, stopping for dinner near the airport before departure.
Evening: Fly back from Hanoi Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 5
Morning: Leave the city behind and travel south to Ninh Binh Province, famous for its breathtaking natural scenery and conservation initiatives. Your first stop will be the Bear Sanctuary operated by Four Paws, a rescue center dedicated to caring for bears saved from bile farming. This meaningful visit provides students with valuable insights into wildlife protection and the importance of ethical tourism.
Afternoon: After lunch at a local restaurant, visit Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, where historic temples and ruins reveal the stories of past dynasties.
Evening: Spend the night in Tam Coc after enjoying dinner at a local restaurant.
