Search by Region

or Use the Trip-Finder

• Contact Us
• Register for Newsletter
• View e-brochure

Trip Highlights

• Volunteer teaching
• Hanoi’s Museum of Ethnology, Ho Chi Minh complex, a “cyclo” ride through the old town
• Sapa’s ethnic villages
• Hiking in stunning hill scenery

 

Your "Taste of Volunteering" Project

The stunning market town of Sapa, in the northern reaches of Vietnam, is home to many ethnic minority groups, including the Hmong and Dao. The relative isolation of this region has helped it to maintain its unique culture and traditions. Get to know and understand these delightful people as you teach English in a local school. The children have a basic understanding of English, but most of them lack confidence in speaking it, so you can help them on a 1 on 1 basis.

Trip Summary

This trip is a great opportunity to explore the beautiful northern reaches of Vietnam and examine the cultural differences between the lowland Vietnamese and the ethnic minority groups of the mountain regions.

The capital city Hanoi is a hive of activity and color as it shrugs of its communist past, yet still maintains the charm and history of past eras.  Relax in a ‘cyclo’ and watch life flow by, as you delve into the history and attractions of this fascinating ancient city.

Board an overnight sleeper train and wake up in the stunning hills of Lao Cai province. Enjoy gorgeous scenery and flora as you hike into the remote reaches of the hills surrounding Sapa. Visit small villages and gain an appreciation and understanding for these warm and proud people that continue to cling to age old traditions.

The highlight of this fantastic adventure is the opportunity to teach English at a local school in Sapa. This education is invaluable, as these ethnic minority groups compete for employment in a rapidly changing world. Enjoy interacting with the jovial and curious children, and feel rewarded as you help build another small step in their future.

 For a full trip description PDF click here

Watch a TV news clip about the launch of Hands Up Holidays

A mini-documentary about a Hands Up Holiday in Fiji

View an introduction to what Hands Up Holidays is all about.