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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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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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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