US Aircraft Carrier Sailors Enjoy Shore Leave in Da Nang, Boosting Local Economy and Cultural Exchange

Sailors from the USS George Washington strike group are enjoying their shore leave in Da Nang, Vietnam, immersing themselves in the local culture and attractions. On August 3, a 45-seat bus from Visit Indochina Travel Company transported 16 officers, military personnel, and crew members to the Non Nuoc Fine Arts Stone Village for shopping. Throughout their time ashore, the delegation expressed excitement and joy, savoring every moment in Da Nang City. Tour guides from Visit Indochina welcomed the sailors, with one crew member explaining the arrival process at Tien Sa Port, noting the option for organized tours or independent travel. "Vietnam is very safe and wonderful," a sailor shared, highlighting his delightful experience trying Mi Quang, a local specialty, near the beach. The crew members also experienced Da Nang's distinctive sidewalk coffee culture. Before their city tours, which began on August 3, the sailors participated in community exchange programs. Visit Indochina Company's Director, Nguyen Son Thuy, reported hosting nearly one thousand sailors over four days. "To promote the culture, land, and people of Da Nang, we collaborated with partners to design tours around four distinct themes centered on the message of 'Returning to the Original Roots,'" Thuy stated. The sightseeing program focuses on exploring Da Nang's profound cultural, historical, and local lifestyle values, offering an authentic experience. Thuy mentioned that visitors enjoyed specialty dishes at renowned local eateries, including Ba Duong banh xeo, Ba Mua Mi Quang, salt coffee, and coconut ice cream. Additionally, tour groups visited major city landmarks such as the Hai Van Pass, the Marble Mountains, and downtown Da Nang. They also explored traditional shopping experiences at local markets like Con Market and Han Market, and visited traditional craft villages, including the Nam O fish sauce craft village. "The entire program was structured around immersive experiences, allowing visitors to directly touch the cultural values, heritage, culinary arts, and local rhythm of life in Da Nang," Thuy concluded. "This visit provides a perfect platform to showcase Da Nang as a safe, friendly, and world-class destination."