By Sarah Warren, ISA Program Advisor
If asked what you know about Vietnam, what would you say? You might be surprised at how dynamic Vietnam is in the modern day. ISA has a new program in the fast-paced and developing city of Ho Chi Minh City, and there’s so much to discover tucked away in the large city. Check out a few highlights in the area that you can explore during your time abroad!
1) Ho Chi Minh City Has Plenty to Explore
The former city of Saigon merged with surrounding provinces to create what we know now as Ho Chi Minh City. Boasting more than 8 million residents, this large city has something for everyone. The city is divided into many different districts, with the heart of the city located in District 1. RMIT University Vietnam is located in District 7, so ISA students will probably spend most of their time in this urban area.
If you want to know a little more about each district, check out this great breakdown! There’s an overall map of the city as well as travel tips for each area, so be sure to read through it before shipping out.
2) Nature, Nature Everywhere
If you like being outdoors, you’ll love Vietnam. There’s more to see than you’ll ever have time for, from the Mekong Delta around Ho Chi Minh City (an excursion included in the program price!) to Ha Long Bay in the north (an optional excursion for some programs). No matter what you’re into, Vietnam has some cool spots you’ll want to visit on the weekends.
Read ISA Regional Director Audrey’s blog about her experience in Ha Long Bay here!
3) Still Thinking about Academics?
Everyone wants to stay on track for graduation. RMIT University Vietnam will let you do that because you won’t have to worry about only having a couple of courses to choose from. They’re actually an extension of an Australian university, so there are plenty of courses in English available – over 200+ to choose from!
Being at the center of Ho Chi Minh City and attending RMIT, you’re sure to experience an interesting fusion of Vietnamese and Australian cultures, in addition to the usual international feel of District 7.
4) Vietnam is What You Make of It
Ho Chi Minh City has something for everyone. There’s great food (phở and bánh mì, anyone?), shopping, and so much more. Are you interested in the authentic Vietnamese culture, or do you want to be in a more modern place? Want to save money while abroad by living cheap, or are you ready to load up with amazing experiences and souvenirs? Whatever you choose, Ho Chi Minh City can accommodate you. There’s so much to see and do that you’ll never run out of options!
For more information on things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, check out this great article by ISA Site Specialist Megan!
Applications for semester programs in Ho Chi Minh City are now available!
Want more information about study abroad programs in Ho Chi Minh City?
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