Memorable Journey of Griffith University Students at VinUniversity: A Hands-On Experience in Hospitality and Cultural Exchange
In October, 2024, VinUniversity had the pleasure of hosting students from Griffith University, Australia, for an enriching experience that bridged academic learning with real-world applications. Our guests joined VinUniversity students in the “Fundamentals in Hotel Operations” course, led by Dr. Jenny Dung Le, Assistant Professor at the College of Business and Management. Through hands-on field trips and cultural exploration, the students expanded their understanding of the hospitality industry in Vietnam.
A Warm Welcome and New Friendships
To kick off the visit, VinUniversity warmly welcomed our Griffith peers with a lively “speed-dating” session, giving everyone a chance to introduce themselves and break the ice. Conversations flowed naturally as VinUni and Griffith students discovered shared interests, setting the foundation for a rewarding experience ahead. This first-day bonding led to an outing for lunch where VinUni students introduced the guests to authentic Vietnamese dishes – “cơm tấm”. This day of connection set the tone for the rest of the visit, where students grew closer and continued to bond throughout the trips and shared learning experiences.
Field Trip to JW Marriott Hanoi and Almaz in Vinhomes Riverside
One of the highlights of the course was an engaging field trip to two distinguished hospitality landmarks: JW Marriott Hanoi and Almaz in Vinhomes Riverside. At JW Marriott, a premier international hotel in the heart of Hanoi, students gained insights into the world-class operational standards and customer service practices essential to high-end hospitality. This visit allowed them to observe the hotel’s attention to detail, seamless service, and commitment to quality.
The next stop was Almaz, a unique complex within Vinhomes Riverside that combines dining, event, and entertainment experiences. Students toured the facilities and had the chance to understand the operations of Vinpearl, Vietnam’s leading hospitality brand. This segment of the field trip allowed them to see a distinct side of Vietnam’s hospitality industry, emphasizing local operational practices and customer service that align with Vietnamese culture and values.
Exploring the Beauty of Ninh Binh: A Cultural Exchange in Nature
Beyond the classroom and field trips, the VinUniversity and Griffith University students joined together in an unforgettable trip to Ninh Binh, a scenic region known for its natural landscapes and cultural landmarks. The itinerary was packed with engaging activities designed to introduce the students to Vietnam’s rich heritage while showing the importance of local hospitality.
The day began with an early pick-up by a local guide, and by mid-morning, the group arrived at Bai Dinh Pagoda, Southeast Asia’s largest pagoda. Here, they marveled at 500 Stone Arhat statues, a 36-ton bronze bell, and a colossal 100-ton Buddha statue, deepening their appreciation for Vietnamese spiritual traditions.
Following a buffet lunch featuring local specialties like goat meat, spring rolls, and vegetarian options, the students set off to explore Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking cave systems. On a two-hour boat trip through the Trang An grottoes, they took in the region’s natural beauty, reflecting on the value of preserving cultural and environmental heritage in the context of tourism.
The adventure concluded with a visit to Mua Cave (Dragon Peak), where students climbed nearly 500 steps to reach the top of Lying Dragon Mountain, rewarded with panoramic views of Tam Coc. This experience highlighted the link between nature and local hospitality, with each activity underscoring the importance of sustainable practices in tourism.
A Global Exchange for Future Hospitality Leaders
To sum up, VinUniversity extends heartfelt thanks to Griffith University for this meaningful exchange, which allowed students to learn and grow together. Through the journey of participating in diverse hospitality environments and exploring the rich Vietnamese culture, the students not only gained valuable knowledge but also formed cross-cultural friendships that will shape their global perspectives in the industry. We look forward to future collaborations that continue to inspire our students as they embark on their paths as hospitality leaders.