Traveler Testimonials
“As a second-generation Vietnamese American, my Citizen Diplomacy Trip with PeaceTrees Vietnam was truly life changing. While I was familiar before with the Vietnam War through the stories of my family and community, my time as a Citizen Diplomat introduced me to unique and profound perspectives that continue to matter in the present. In particular, I was deeply moved by witnessing the work of PTVN staff and technicians throughout my trip. The care and attention they demonstrated throughout my time in Vietnam was simply inspiring and revealed a deep commitment to the work of building a more peaceful future in Vietnam. Reflecting on my experience, I feel motivated to continue supporting the work of PTVN and fostering bilateral support for the work of environmental remediation in Vietnam.”
- Jason Vũ, Citizen Diplomat, 2025
"The Citizen Diplomacy Trip enriched my life in so many ways… I gained a renewed appreciation for the country’s rich history... Our time in Quảng Bình and Quảng Trị was especially impactful as we witnessed PeaceTrees’ work up close. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to interact with the dedicated local staff who carry out this mission as well as with the local people, especially the ethnic minority residents whose lives have been directly touched by PeaceTrees’ efforts.
This was a truly heartwarming experience that I will never forget. Also, I can’t emphasize enough how much depth my fellow travelers added to this already meaningful journey. The conversations we shared about different topics and our own life stories were the highlight of the trip for me. I have built meaningful connections and learned so much from everyone on the trip and for that, I will always be grateful.
All in all, the trip has inspired me to continue to learn more about Vietnamese culture, US-Vietnam relations and how young generations navigate their complex identities. I feel hopeful and empowered to have been a part of this experience and am excited to find more ways to engage in the organization’s work."
-Thảo Tăng, Citizen Diplomat, 2025
"This was a life changing experience for me. It has broadened my perspective on Vietnam and Southeast Asia as well as made me aware of my own prejudices, inner stories and perceptions. Travel always provides opportunities for seeing the world through the eyes of others, but this was a particularly mind bending experience."
- Citizen Diplomat, 2024
"Fifty-four years and nine months after leaving Vietnam in December 1968, I was privileged to return as a part of a Citizen Diplomacy Trip with Peace Trees Vietnam. It was truly a life-changing experience. My wife and I experienced the new Vietnam and its people in a both formal meetings and casual settings in multiple cities and in the countryside. We witnessed the energy, vitality and optimism of the Vietnamese people. We were welcomed and befriended everywhere we went.
A firsthand look at the work being done to clear the land of the unexploded residue of wars, the planting of trees and the establishment of kindergartens for the indigenous peoples in rural areas of Vietnam gives hope for the future and healing of the past. We are honored to have had the opportunity to witness and be a small part of the great work being done by Peace Trees Vietnam."
- Citizen Diplomat, 2023
