[ Tourism and Travel Management] Tourism Club Conducts Practical Learning at the 18th International Travel Expo ITE HCMC and the Independence P

On 7 September 2024, the Tourism Club of Lac Hong University organized a practical study visit for club members and students of the Tourism and Travel Management (QTDVDL & LH) program. The destinations of this journey were the 18th International Travel Expo Ho Chi Minh City (ITE HCMC) and the Independence Palace—locations that bear significant historical and developmental marks of Vietnam’s tourism industry. The trip was not only a valuable learning opportunity but also an important practical experience for students pursuing tourism studies.

Exploring the 18th International Travel Expo ITE HCMC – 2024

The International Travel Expo ITE HCMC 2024 took place from 5 to 7 September. This is an annual international tourism trade event of large scale and high prestige in Vietnam. The 18th edition in 2024 was held under the theme “Sustainable Tourism – Shaping the Future,” organized under the direction of the People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City in coordination with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. The expo attracted more than 400 participating enterprises and 250 high-level buyers from over 40 countries and territories, along with more than 25,000 visitors. This annual international tourism event aims to strengthen exchange, promote tourism, and expand business opportunities for domestic and international companies.

At ITE HCMC 2024, students from the Club and the Tourism and Travel Management program of Lac Hong University had the opportunity to explore the diversity of tourism products and services from various countries and regions. In addition to domestic exhibitors, numerous international enterprises also participated. The booths not only introduced tourism destinations but also presented new product packages, services, and sustainable development trends in the tourism industry.

After attending ITE HCMC, the delegation continued to visit the Independence Palace—a historical and architectural symbol of Ho Chi Minh City. Built during the French colonial period and associated with many significant historical events of Vietnam, the Independence Palace is not only the site marking the moment of national reunification but also one of the most famous cultural and historical landmarks attracting millions of domestic and international visitors.

During the visit, students were guided by on-site tour guides who provided detailed introductions about the construction history and historical events associated with the Independence Palace. Stories of the struggles for independence and peace offered students a more comprehensive perspective on Vietnam’s past and cultural values. In particular, the experiences at the Independence Palace helped students gain a deeper awareness of the younger generation’s responsibility in preserving and promoting these historical values within tourism development.

The visit went beyond exploring notable events and destinations; it also delivered practical value for Lac Hong University students. For those studying Tourism and Travel Management, participating in practical activities such as ITE HCMC and visiting the Independence Palace provided opportunities to gain closer exposure to the profession they have chosen.

Through visiting exhibition booths, meeting tourism enterprises, and engaging in expo activities, students enhanced their communication skills, learned about market trends, and accumulated knowledge in tourism management and marketing. At the same time, the event helped them develop important soft skills such as presentation skills, analytical thinking, and teamwork while participating in joint activities with enterprises at the expo. Moreover, the trip created networking opportunities with enterprises in tourism, travel, and services, enabling students to establish professional relationships for their future careers.

The visit to ITE HCMC 2024 and the Independence Palace provided memorable experiences and valuable knowledge for Lac Hong University students. It was not only an opportunity to update the latest information in the tourism industry but also a chance to better understand Vietnam’s historical and cultural values, thereby enhancing the knowledge and skills necessary for their future careers.

The success of this visit also reflects the active role of the Tourism Club and the Tourism and Travel Management program in organizing educational and highly practical extracurricular activities, helping students grow and become more confident on their journey toward becoming professional tourism managers in the future.