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.
