We started our day bright and early, hopping on a bus and driving an hour to our first stop: a workshop where delicate eggshell paintings were being created. After wandering through the displays and watching the artists at work, we continued on to one of the most memorable parts of the day—the Củ Chi Tunnels.

At Củ Chi, we learned about the bunkers used during the war and the traps that were set throughout the jungle. A few brave members of our group even ventured into one of the tunnels, crawling on their hands and knees for 100 meters underground. The space tightened quickly, the heat built fast, and they emerged dripping in sweat but full of adrenaline. We also learned about the kitchens hidden beneath the earth, where meals had to be cooked at dawn so the rising smoke would blend into the morning mist, keeping them hidden from aircraft.

After a short 30-minute ride, we switched buses and headed to lunch at the Bamboo Restaurant. Shared platters of local dishes filled the table and refueled us for the afternoon ahead. From there, we boarded a boat and were greeted with fresh coconuts as we cruised toward Unicorn Island.

On the island, we sampled honey, dried banana, banana crackers, and peanut treats before climbing into small canoes that carried us gently down the river. At the next stop, we tasted a colorful spread of fruits: watermelon, pineapple, and jackfruit; fresh and perfectly sweet.

Eventually, we made our way back onto the boat and sailed through a glowing sunset, soaking in the last calm moment of the day. The only thing left was the two-hour bus ride home… which we faced with significantly less enthusiasm.

A long day, a full day, and one we won’t forget anytime soon.

Finished off with some beautiful market food.