Vietnamese Pho to Pad Thai – Food and Culture
Dive into the heart of Southeast Asia’s culinary landscapes, all while gaining valuable cultural and historical insights that extend far beyond the plate as you embark on a 14-day immersive adventure through the heart of Vietnam and Thailand, where the flavors of Southeast Asia come alive through hands-on culinary experiences, cultural exploration, and historical discovery. Start your journey in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), Vietnam’s bustling metropolis, and dive into the vibrant street food scene. Explore hidden cafes, savor local delicacies, and try your hand at Vietnamese cooking during a Farm-to-Table culinary class. Walk through the history of Vietnamese cuisine, from the iconic phin coffee to traditional egg coffee, as you participate in a coffee workshop that takes you deep into local culture. Visit a local chocolate farm to learn the craft of bean-to-bar chocolate making. Venture into the Mekong Delta, where time slows down and local life revolves around floating markets and coconut farms.
Fly to Bangkok, Thailand, a city where ancient history and modern energy collide. Master the essentials of Thai cuisine with a traditional cooking class. From pad Thai to fragrant curries, you’ll learn the stories behind each dish while immersing yourself in the bustling food culture of the city. Cruise along the Chao Phraya River, the lifeblood of Thailand, as you take in the historical landmarks and scenic views. Visit the floating markets of Samut Songkhram, where you’ll navigate the Maeklong River and witness the fascinating spectacle of the train market, where vendors swiftly retract their stalls as the train passes through.
Step into the past with a day trip to Ayutthaya, the UNESCO-listed ancient capital of Thailand, where you’ll explore the ruins of temples and palaces. Learn about the rise and fall of the kingdom while indulging in a cooking experience at the Koh Kerd community, known for its traditional methods of preparing and cooking Thai dishes. Get your hands dirty picking fresh herbs, preparing signature Thai meals, and understanding the deep cultural significance behind each ingredient. Indulge in a relaxing Thai hand massage workshop, a practice that blends health, wellness, and tradition. Throughout the program, you’ll discover how food serves as a bridge between the past and present, from the organic farm-to-table experiences in Vietnam to the sustainable farming practices of Thailand.
This program welcomes students and young professionals from all academic backgrounds, with a preference for those specializing in fields such as Culinary Arts, Food Science, Nutrition, Agricultural Studies, Hospitality Management, and Food Technology.
Program dates
To be updated.
Program Inclusions
- Shared accommodation with breakfast
- Airport Pickup, Induction Course and Cultural Orientation
- A series of Cultural and Industry Immersion Events
- 24/7 Emergency Support and Guidance
Why Choose This Program?
- Sustainability Insights: Understand sustainable food practices, including farm-to-table processes, organic farming, and eco-friendly food production methods.
- Community Engagement: Experience how food plays a central role in community development, from social enterprises in Vietnam to rural heritage sites in Thailand.
- Cultural Immersion: Develop a deep understanding of the historical and cultural contexts behind food traditions in Vietnam and Thailand. Visit iconic sites such as the Mekong Delta, floating markets, and historical temples, while engaging with local communities to learn about their traditions and livelihoods.
- Culinary Skills: Master the art of traditional Vietnamese and Thai dishes, learning from local chefs in hands-on workshops.
- Global Perspective: Develop a deeper understanding of how food is intertwined with history, culture, and community across borders.
- Historical Awareness: Explore the historical significance of key sites like Ayutthaya and the Mekong Delta, developing a broader understanding of the region’s past and present.
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Program Fees
$2495£2050€2375$3950$4250
Visa Requirements
Vietnam visa requirements:
As of August 15, 2023, citizens of 25 countries on this list are allowed to stay in Vietnam for 14-90 days from the time of entry without having to apply for a visa.
However, if your country is not on the visa exemption list, you will need to obtain a visa to enter Vietnam. Please speak with our Admissions Team to know more about the visa application process. Your visa & processing costs are not included in your Program Fee.
Thailand visa requirements:
Citizens of certain countries (i.e. the United States, United Kingdom, European Union nations, Australia, Canada, etc.) can enter Thailand without a visa for short stays. Check this LINK to see if your country is eligible for visa exemption. If you want to stay longer or are from countries where visa exemption doesn’t apply, please check this website for the relevant visa. We also recommend reaching out to the Thailand embassy/ consulate in your country/ city to confirm the visa type that applies to you.
Always consult the official Thai embassy or consulate for accurate and up-to-date information. All information relating to visas on CRCC Asia’s website is intended to be general in nature, and you should not base any decisions solely on the information on this website. The decision on the visa application form is solely at the discretion of the Embassy of Thailand and CRCC Asia shall not have any liability towards any applicant in the event of the rejection of their visa application.
Please note that for Short-term Program applicants, an Advising Call is strongly suggested but not compulsory.
