At Agoda, it goes without saying that travel is at the heart of everything we do. Whether we’re supporting customers or exploring new places ourselves, travel fuels our curiosity and deepens our connection to the world. That’s why the grand prize at our annual Agoda staff party is called the Bridging the World Through Travel prize, as a celebration of our shared purpose. The lucky winners receive extra leave days and the funds to take the trip of their dreams.
One of this year’s winners was Hieu Lai, an Accommodation Services Specialist in Agoda’s Customer Service & Support Team. His dream trip took shape in a very special way: instead of traveling far overseas, he used the prize to bring his entire family on a journey across Vietnam, followed by a solo adventure that brought him closer to his country’s history, nature, and culture than ever before.
Read on to learn about his experience, what he’s learned, and what travel means to him.
A moment of disbelief
When I found out I’d won the prize, I had to check my calendar to make sure it wasn’t April Fool’s Day! My heart was racing so fast, I think my smartwatch thought I was running a marathon. I even pinched myself twice, just to be sure I wasn’t dreaming.
When my name was called, I had already left the party. Then, my team manager and all my friends suddenly started texting and calling me to share the good news. At first, I really thought they were tricking me! All of it felt surreal.
A dream destination close to home
While others might dream of far-flung destinations, I wanted this experience to be something especially meaningful and personal to me. So, I decided to treat my wife and our family to a wonderful, memorable journey across our home country of Vietnam.
The chance to explore together, rediscover our roots, and see both new and familiar places with fresh eyes felt more special to me than any international getaway. Instead of visiting just one destination, we planned a multi-stop journey over two weeks, including a few days of solo travel where I’d explore on my own.
When someone asked what part of the trip I was most excited for, I could honestly say all of it. I treasured every single moment.
A family trip to remember
On the first day of our trip, we set out to explore the town of Vung Tau. Thanks to the prize money from Agoda, I was able to cover the expenses for our activities. I treated my whole family to a day at a fancy hot spring, followed by a delightful dinner, and we spent the night at a resort within the same complex.
The next morning, we returned to town and then boarded a sleeper bus to Nha Trang City, where we enjoyed a three-night stay and plenty of family time together. After Nha Trang, my family returned home, and I headed to Hue City, where my solo journey officially began.
A deeper connection to Vietnam
With two nights to explore Hue, I spent 1 day visiting Quang Tri. To honor our nation’s heroic figures, I went to the Quang Tri Citadel and Hien Luong Bridge at the 17th parallel. These historic sites are powerful reminders of the sacrifices made during the war. Standing on those grounds, I felt immense gratitude for the peace we enjoy today and a renewed appreciation for the unity and resilience that define our nation.
On my final day in central Vietnam, I visited Quang Binh, renowned for the legendary Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a site of real natural wonder and historical significance. After spending the day exploring the park’s magnificent caves, I returned to the tranquil riverside town as evening approached. The air was crisp and refreshing, infused with the subtle fragrance of wildflowers, while the gentle flow of the Son River under the moonlight created a serene and memorable atmosphere.
Traveling through Hue, Quang Tri, and Quang Binh allowed me to witness breathtaking landscapes and historical landmarks, and more importantly, deepened my love and respect for Vietnam. Each site is a living testament to the country’s enduring spirit, reminding me of the importance of preserving our heritage and cherishing the peace and freedom we hold today.
After these profound experiences, I returned to Ho Chi Minh City for the last two days of my trip. There, I spent time reflecting and reconnecting with friends in the city, many of whom were former colleagues from Agoda.
Unforgettable memories, captured from above
During my trip, I had the unique opportunity to fly my drone and capture the breathtaking aerial view of Gia Long Tomb, one of the oldest and most remarkable imperial tombs in Vietnam. It was awe-inspiring to witness its grandeur and historical significance from above, and to see how harmoniously the site blends with the surrounding natural landscape.
Bridging the world with loved ones
Winning the Bridging the World prize was truly special because it allowed me to take my family on a dream trip—one that we had only imagined before. Even though the destinations were within our own country, they were places we never thought we’d have the chance to visit together. Sharing these experiences with my loved ones made the journey even more meaningful.
Personally, the trip was incredibly recharging. Seeing the excitement and wonder on my family’s faces as we explored new places reminded me of the joy of discovery and the importance of making memories together. It also brought us closer as a family, as we navigated fresh adventures side by side.
Professionally, the trip also gave me a fresh perspective, showing me that ‘bridging the world’ isn’t just about crossing borders. It’s about connecting with people, places, and experiences that are new to us, even if they’re close to home.
Growing with Agoda
This once-in-a-lifetime travel experience reminded me how important it is to stay curious, open-minded, and appreciative of the diversity that exists all around us. I returned home with renewed energy, a deep sense of gratitude, and a brighter outlook that carried over into my work and family life.
Being part of Agoda has made a world of difference for my personal growth and career development. Working in such a dynamic, multicultural environment has allowed me to step outside my comfort zone and continually embrace new challenges. Just as the Bridging the World prize allowed me to explore dream destinations with my family, Agoda has given me the opportunity to ‘travel’ professionally—by collaborating with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, learning from their perspectives, and adapting to new ways of thinking.
Agoda has been much more than just a workplace for me. It’s been a place of continuous learning, connection, and personal discovery, much like the memorable trip I shared with my family.
Join a global team that’s bridging the world through travel. Explore job opportunities at Agoda today.
