Leticia |

Leticia

Name: Leticia

Purpose: Internship

Date: 9/2025

Nationality: Belgium

Topic: Local NGO

Blog

Arriving in Vietnam

15/09/2025

Leticia

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I arrived in Ho Chi Minh City at the end of August—hot and humid! After getting a SIM card and using Grab (a must-have app, like Uber), I stayed a few days for the national holiday before heading to Phan Thiet. To reach the Thien Chi Center, you can either take a bus for about €8 (cheaper but less predictable) or a taxi for around €100 (faster but costly). I chose the bus, and despite a bit of waiting, everything went smoothly. Once in Phan Thiet, the Thien Chi director welcomed me and brought me to my homestay.

Getting ready before coming

15/09/2025

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I chose this internship because of my strong interest in NGOs, which started during a short placement with Mekong Plus in Belgium. Later, while pursuing my Master’s in Population Sciences and Development, I decided to come to Vietnam, combining my thesis research with practical field experience. Mekong Plus connected me with its partner NGO, Thien Chi. To prepare, I handled visa applications, vaccinations, and flights, before settling into a homestay near the NGO’s office. Daily life here is simple and affordable, and I quickly adapted to the local rhythm.