We’ve always believed that a great workplace starts with balance, somewhere people feel supported both at work and in life. So investing in our people’s well-being has always been at our core, and one of the ways we honor that is through the 5-Year Club trips—a tradition that started in 2017 to recognize the dedication and loyalty of teammates who’ve been with us for at least five years.
This year’s 5YC adventure took us to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, a place rich with history, energy, and heart. From October 4 to 6, Arcanytes and their families turned three days into a blur of food hunts, city strolls, educational tours, and exciting adventures. It was a well-earned break and a reminder that the best part of work is the people you share it with, especially outside the office.
Day 1: Discovering Cu Chi Tunnels & War Remnants Museum
Excitement was high as we all set out for the famous Cu Chi Tunnels. About an hour and a half ride from Ho Chi Minh, we had to stop for some grub first to prevent people (especially mini Arcanytes) from getting hangry. So we went to Sol Cu Chi Restaurant, a cozy local spot where we enjoyed some Vietnamese lunch.
After a hearty lunch, we made another stop, this time at a handicraft workshop. The place was an unexpected surprise because the artists behind the amazing artworks are people with disabilities. Watching them create intricate works of art with such focus and creativity was deeply moving.
From there, we continued to the Cu Chi Tunnels, where we learned about the ingenuity and endurance that shaped this part of Vietnam’s history.
Initially built in the late 1940s during Vietnam’s fight for independence from France and later expanded in the Vietnam War (1955–1975), the Cu Chi Tunnels formed a 250 km network that is up to 10 meters deep. Used by the Viet Cong as living quarters, supply routes, and hideouts, the tunnels featured camouflaged entrances, air vents, smokeless kitchens, and booby traps. Despite harsh conditions, people lived in them for years, sometimes staying underground for months at a time, showing remarkable ingenuity and endurance in wartime.
Next on the agenda that day was a visit to the War Remnants Museum, where we gained a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s history and resilience. Walking through its exhibits was a quiet, reflective experience—one that encouraged us to pause and appreciate the strength of a nation shaped by its past.
Day 2: Exploring Independence Palace & Dinner at JW Marriott
The second day began with a visit to the Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace. This historic site marked the end of the Vietnam War in 1975 and stands today as a symbol of peace and progress. Arcanytes explored the grounds where history was made, a truly fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s journey.
Come evening, we went to a lavish buffet dinner at the JW Marriott Hotel, where everyone gathered to share stories, laughter, and memories from the trip. It was a night of good food, great company, and well-deserved celebration—the perfect way to cap the day.
Day 3: A Day to Explore the Local Flavors
After two full days of sightseeing and team activities, the third day was all about free time. Some explored Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Square, and Saigon Central for souvenirs.
Others checked out the quaint shops of City Book Street or had a cup of delicious egg coffee at the Cafe Apartment, while a few took it easy and enjoyed local dishes such as the rich, aromatic, comfort food pho or the seemingly “everything but the kitchen sink” and incredibly filling giant sandwich banh mi.
Some Arcanytes visited other historic sites in the city such as the Saigon Central Post Office, Saigon Opera House, and Ho Chi Minh City Hall.
Others still went to the visual feast that is the Metashow Art Lighting Exhibition featuring Vincent van Gogh’s life and art at Thiso Mall.
Everyone had their own adventure, soaking in the city’s vibrant energy and welcoming spirit.
More Than Just a Trip
Beyond the sights and flavors, this 5-Year Club journey was more than a getaway. It was a celebration of commitment, friendship, and how far we’ve come together.
Over the years, we’ve watched our Arcanys family truly grow. What began as teammates traveling together soon became trips shared with partners and parents—and now, they’re filled with the laughter (and the occasional cries) of little ones, too. Seeing families grow alongside careers has been a quiet, beautiful reminder that we’re building something bigger than work: a community that grows together in every sense.
Milestones mean more when they’re shared, and Ho Chi Minh City gave us the perfect place to celebrate that. And as everyone headed home, they carried with them not just memories of Vietnam’s beauty and history, but also a renewed sense of pride in reaching this meaningful milestone—together.
If you’re inspired by stories like this and want to be part of a team that values growth and celebrates success together, visit our Careers page to explore opportunities with us.
Line Arias
Content Writer
Line Arias
Content Writer
Line is a Content Writer at Arcanys. She's also an editor, a bibliophile, a collector of pretty knickknacks, and a versatile doer with serious OC tendencies. She loves the written word undoubtedly, reads creepy stories by Poe, and shows great enthusiasm for every project like an eager beaver.
