With the desire to create opportunities for relaxation, practical experiences, and team bonding, the University of Languages and Social Sciences (ULSS) organized a community retreat program for its staff and faculty at Cu Lao Cham on August 2-3, 2025. Amidst the fresh natural environment, the faculty enjoyed precious moments of relaxation, exploring the natural beauty and the peaceful life of the island community together.
Leaving the city behind, the journey to Cu Lao Cham offered a completely different experience—where waves gently lapped against the boat, sunlight shimmered on the water, and white sandy beaches stretched out. Just about 20 minutes by speedboat from the mainland, Cu Lao Cham felt like another world—fresh, green, and serene.
The highlight of the journey was the visit to the island's distinctive cultural and ecological sites, including: the ancient Cham well, the over 400-year-old Hai Tang Pagoda, the local seafood market, the traditional fishing village where many characteristic aspects of coastal life are preserved, and the rows of umbrella trees casting shade along the mountain slopes, standing out against the lush green of the island.
The faculty also seized the opportunity to experience swimming at Bai Xep beach, snorkeling to admire the coral reefs, and witnessing the unique coral reef ecosystem—one of the precious biological values of the Cu Lao Cham World Biosphere Reserve.
The evening community gathering on the island provided an opportunity for group members to interact, share, enjoy fresh seafood together, and immerse themselves in joyful laughter amidst nature. The open, simple yet warm atmosphere helped bridge the distance between colleagues, deepening the bonds within the university community.
The community retreat to Cu Lao Cham was not only a collective holiday but also a memorable experiential journey—where people rediscovered balance between work and life, between nature and inner peace. What remained after the trip was not just images of blue sea, white sand, and golden sunshine, but also the companionship, sharing, and connection among members of the ULSS family.
