Voluntourism in Hanoi: my one-week experience teaching English
This time I came to Hanoi not only for food and sightseeing. I came with a different goal: voluntourism—spending one week supporting English teaching. It sounds noble on paper, but in reality it tired me more than any tour. And it stayed with me longer than almost any trip I’ve taken.
This is my diary: what a week of teaching English in Hanoi looked like, what was hard, what was worth it, and the lessons that made me see this city differently.
Quick verdict
- Voluntourism is worth it if you want depth, not just a quick pass-through.
- It will be tiring if you expect it to feel like a relaxed vacation.
- The key: choose a transparent program, respect learners, and respect local culture.
What I prepared before starting
I didn’t bring a “magic textbook.” I brought practical tools:
- Simple lesson themes: greetings, self-introductions, directions, shopping.
- Short games to keep energy positive.
- A humble mindset: I came to support, not to “save” anyone.
- Buffer time each day because Hanoi traffic is hard to predict.
How my week unfolded
Day 1: Awkward nerves
I walked in smiling, but inside I kept asking: “Am I good enough to teach?” I learned fast: students don’t need you perfect. They need you clear, patient, and encouraging.
Days 2–3: Teaching less, teaching clearer
I stopped speaking in long paragraphs. I broke sentences down, used daily-life examples, and repeated the essentials. When the class laughed at a simple example, I understood: good teaching isn’t “more content.” It’s usable content.
Days 4–5: Moments that hit my heart
Some learners told me they wanted English for a better job, to help their children study, or to feel confident with foreigners. That’s when I realized: this wasn’t just a class. It was a small door opening.
Day 6: Tired — but the good kind
By day six, my energy dipped. After teaching, I didn’t have much left for nightlife. But instead of frustration, I felt calm: I was spending energy on something meaningful.
Day 7: Goodbye and a feeling of staying
The last day wasn’t dramatic. Just thank-yous, a few photos, and “see you next time.” Still, I knew a part of me stayed in Hanoi—in the simple English sentences we practiced together.
The hard parts (no sugarcoating)
- Communication gaps: misunderstandings happen. Solution: speak slower, use visuals, keep it simple.
- Expectations: if you expect to “change lives” in seven days, you’ll be disappointed.
- Energy: teaching drains you. Sleep enough and keep food simple.
Eight lessons I brought home
- Don’t teach to perform. Teach so people can use it.
- Patience is a skill, not just a personality trait.
- Culture matters: respect how people learn and communicate.
- Slow travel goes deeper: Hanoi is richer when you connect with people.
- Set boundaries: you need rest to give sustainably.
- Small and real beats big and hollow.
- Don’t turn volunteering into a show: keep kindness quiet.
- A stable base helps you recover and stay consistent.
Staying at Ping Hotel: why it helped me keep my rhythm
A week of teaching taught me the value of a “base.” I stayed at Ping Hotel (Me Tri area, near Keangnam). What I needed was simple: sleep well, hot shower, easy logistics. When you give energy during the day, you need a place to refill at night.
Because Ping Hotel is about 800m from Keangnam, my commuting burden was lighter. Less wasted energy means more patience and better presence in class.
Closing thought: if you’re considering voluntourism in Hanoi
If you want stories, not just photos, consider it. But bring the right mindset: respect, humility, and readiness to be tired. One week of volunteering in Hanoi won’t magically transform you—but it may help you see yourself more clearly. For me, that was the biggest gift.
Related reading
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is voluntourism in Hanoi suitable for beginners?
Yes if you’re respectful, patient, and willing to follow a real schedule. Choose a transparent program and a role that matches your skills.
How good does my English need to be to teach?
You don’t need perfection, but you should communicate clearly and explain simply. Practical preparation matters most.
Can one week create real impact?
Usually small but real. Don’t expect life-changing impact in seven days—focus on consistent, learner-centered support.
What’s the hardest part of volunteering to teach English?
Mixed levels, communication gaps, and keeping your energy. Speak slowly, use daily examples, and rest well.
What should I prepare before starting?
Theme-based lessons, short activities, visuals, backup internet, and buffer time for commuting.
Is Ping Hotel near Keangnam convenient for a volunteer schedule?
Yes if you want a tidy base to rest and move efficiently around My Dinh–Me Tri.
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- Phone: (84.4) 3 7858408 / 3 7858409
- Hotline: 0904.77.14.26
- Email: sales@pinghotel.vn
- Address: 26 Me Tri Ha Street, Nam Tu Liem District, Hanoi
- Location tip: About 800m from Keangnam Landmark 72 (walkable).
- Book online at pinghotel.vn
