On the evening of September 24th, 2024, the Booking.com team embarked on an exhilarating journey during the Saigon Market Battle! In just two hours, the international crew faced challenges that involved capturing moments at unique spots of the area, learning the Vietnamese Language and communicating with local vendors at Ton That Dam Market, one of the oldest markets in Ho Chi Minh City. Through these fun language and cultural engaging activities, the team bonded while making a lasting impact on two local shelters!
A Brief History of Vietnamese Language and Its Role in Shaping Vietnamese Culture
The development of the Vietnamese language spans centuries, shaped by various cultural influences.
Pre-10th Century Vietnamese Languague
Early Vietnamese used Chữ Hán (Classical Chinese), introduced during Chinese domination, as the primary written script.
10th–13th Century
After gaining independence, the Vietnamese adapted Chinese characters into Chữ Nôm, a system used to write vernacular Vietnamese, especially for poetry and literature.
17th Century to Modern Era
European missionaries, particularly Alexandre de Rhodes, developed Quốc Ngữ, the Romanized script, making the language easier to learn. Quốc Ngữ gradually replaced Chữ Nôm and became the dominant writing system by the early 20th century. Quốc Ngữ remains the official script today, and the Vietnamese language continues to evolve, blending traditional roots with foreign influences, especially in the digital age.
The development of the Vietnamese language has deeply influenced Vietnamese culture, fostering a unique sense of national identity. With the shift from Chữ Nôm to Quốc Ngữ, literacy expanded, allowing for greater access to education and the spread of Vietnamese literature, art, and traditions. This evolution has preserved cultural heritage while enabling Vietnam to adapt to modern influences, keeping its rich history alive through language.
Booking.com Team Embark on a Walking Tour and Capturing the Memories
With a mission to strengthen team bonds while diving into the local culture, language, and giving back to the community, the Booking.com crew kicked off their adventure with an exciting walking tour through the vibrant Ton That Dam Market and its surrounding streets. Split into 9 teams, the 67 participants were each guided by a knowledgeable local who brought the area to life with insider stories and tips.
Armed with custom maps, teams roamed the bustling market, snapping instant photos at hidden gems and unique spots, turning the city into their playground. It wasn’t just a tour—it was a cultural treasure hunt that brought everyone closer to both each other and the heart of Saigon.
Master Vietnamese Language While Tasting Exotic Fruits & Drinks
At the Booking.com team building event, learning Vietnamese wasn’t just about memorizing words—it was about diving into real-life, everyday language. Teams had to use their new skills to buy exotic fruits, for example: durian and order egg coffee from local vendors, fully immersing themselves in the hustle and bustle of Saigon life. Navigating the market, they weren’t just practicing phrases, but learning how locals communicate daily.
It was a fun, hands-on way to connect with the culture while tackling the delicious challenge of picking out the best exotic fruits and tasting Vietnam’s iconic egg coffee!
Using Vietnamese Language to buy Essential Daily Items for Local Shelters
Using their newfound Vietnamese Language skills, the Booking.com team took on a heartwarming challenge: purchasing essential daily items for two local shelters—House of 40 Children in Binh Duong Province and Binh Minh Orphanage in District 4.
Embracing the Vietnamese culture of “the good leaves protect the torn ones” (or lá lành đùm lá rách), the team embraced solidarity, compassion, and mutual support. This idea encourages those with more resources or power to help those less fortunate. In this spirit, the team worked with local vendors to secure items like a water machine, 30 school uniforms, and 31 martial arts shoes for the children in Binh Duong. For Binh Minh Orphanage, they contributed essential cooking ingredients, festive cakes and candies for the kids, and supplies like cooking oil to help with daily meals.
Through this experience, the team made a lasting impact, learning the power of the Vietnamese Language while supporting the community with compassion and care.
To Conclude
The Booking.com team building event was more than just fun and games—it was an unforgettable journey into Vietnamese language, culture and the power of giving back. From mastering the Vietnamese Language, enjoying exotic treats to supporting local shelters, the team bonded while making a real impact on the community.
Team Building In Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Vietnam
At Jackfruit Adventure, we specialize in crafting unforgettable Team Building in Ho Chi Minh City. With our deep knowledge of Saigon and strong local connections, we’re dedicated to creating bonding experiences that resonate and leave a lasting impact. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your team’s unity or explore the vibrant culture of Vietnam together, we’re here to make it happen. Contact us today to start planning a truly memorable team building event in Ho Chi Minh City.
