MPH Upper School students traveled to Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand over February break, where they had countless once-in-a-life time experiences. In Vietnam, they learned about the Vietnam War from the Vietnamese perspective, by traveling through the Chu Chi tunnels and visiting the Vietnam War museum. They experienced daily Vietnamese life, tasted local fruits, and discovered how different foods were made at the floating markets of Cai Be.
In Cambodia, students experienced Angkor Wat at sunrise and learned about the history, culture, and religion that are at the backbone of the amazing temple complex. Students visited an artisan school and learned how the people of Cambodia were using traditional arts to give the underprivileged opportunities. In addition, they experienced the floating villages of Tonlé
Sap lake, saw a rice and lotus farm, and traveled via "took took" like the locals.
Thailand provided a more in-depth look at the Buddhist religion. They learned how Buddhists show gratitude and how they meditate. In addition, students experienced cultural diffusion in real life, not just as an abstract concept within Thailand. Because of its waterways and location, Thailand's architecture, food, art, and economy were all greatly influenced by the cultures around it. With each country, students learned about average incomes and education, different forms of government, and the effects of imperialism, trade, traditions and values.
Many thanks to Mrs. Henderson and Ms. Morrison for chaperoning the trip and for capturing some amazing images.
Take a look at the photo gallery above.
