When scooping around for the perfect place to spend time at, I love knowing that my money is going to contribute to something greater than just my own enjoyment. Let’s face it, we are amongst the most privileged humans. Travelling is a luxury and, for some people, it’s a gift they will never be able to afford for themselves. Here are three companies that will allow you to receive a lot while giving back to the Vietnamese community.
Karma Waters
Karma Waters Shop Front – Source: Joseph Wells Photography
Location: 213 Nguyen Duy Hieu Street (Hoi An) ; 110 Tran Huy Lieu Street (Danang)
Opening Hours: 10:00 – 20:30 (daily)
Probably the most amazing place you could visit in Hoi An. Karmawaters not only is a franchise restaurant that serves yummy Vegan food for affordable prices, they also own three Charitable programs that distributes food to the poor, low income and students, one Ethnic Support program that offers clothing and daily necessities to families and children in need and one Medical Assistance program where they help pay medical bills and treatments to patients and families who can’t afford it. Simply pop up at their restaurant for a meal and ask how you can contribute more.
Reaching out (Hòa Nhập)
Location : 103 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Hoi An
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri: 8:30 – 21:30 ; Sat-Sun: 9:30 – 20:30
Reaching out is an artisanal craft shop where you can buy souvenirs like jewellery or lanterns but also find household items like bedding, napkin, tea cups and paintings for a reasonable price. What is so special about it is that each item is handcrafted and, therefore, quiet unique. Secondly, People With Disabilities (PWD) design and create them. The shop’s motto “gift that gives twice” speaks for itself. They are sustainable, locally-owned and fair-trade.
You can browse online but we advice you to visit them so you can meet the artisans. Their door is open to anyone, just ask the salesperson working there and they will offer you a tour for free. They also provide workshops where you can learn to craft your own lanterns or gift cards.
Jack’s cat cafe
Cat photography – Source: Pexels
Location: 12 Le Hong Phong, Hoi An
Opening Hours: Tue-Sat: 11:00 – 15:00 (need to book first)
It’s definitely worth a visit! For a small entry fee ($5), you will enjoy a complimentary drink and some vegan snacks knowing that your gesture contributed to the well-being of the animals. Jack was the first cat to be fostered and many more followed. Emma, the owner, rescues them from the street, gives them medical care and hosts them until they find a new appropriate home. To this day, more than 150 cats have been saved and 55 of them have been successfully re-homed. There are many ways you can contribute. Moreover, you don’t even need to physically visit their shelter. You can send some donation money but the best way is to sponsor a cat through their website.