Intrepid Travel has launched an emergency appeal through its not-for-profit, The Intrepid Foundation, to support impacted communities in Northern Vietnam following Typhoon Yagi, which made landfall on 7 September, 2024.
All funds raised through the appeal will go directly to grassroots organisation Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation, to provide immediate relief to thousands without shelter, food and electricity due to flooding and landslides.
The Intrepid Foundation has established the appeal in partnership with long-term Vietnam-based NGO partner, the Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation, who are on the ground supporting local communities in Northern Vietnam.
With flooding and landslides continuing to devastate some communities, they are working tirelessly to provide immediate essentials like safe shelter and food supplies to affected families. When the waters recede, Blue Dragon will help with long-term recovery support such as rebuilding homes that have been destroyed by the storm.
Meanwhile, Intrepid’s trips continue to operate in Vietnam and are being rerouted away from affected areas where necessary, with the intention of resuming as soon as possible to ensure local communities will continue to benefit from the economic support of tourism.
“Typhoon Yagi has been the largest storm to impact Vietnam in over 30 years. By supporting this appeal, the international travel community can directly contribute to the humanitarian relief efforts, supplying immediate needs to children and families across the 13 northern provinces,” said Biheng Zhang, General Manager of The Intrepid Foundation.
Intrepid holds deep and enduring connections with Vietnam. As Intrepid Travel’s first local country office, today it is the company’s most popular destination, employing 100 team members. The Intrepid Foundation has been partnering with local community organisations in Vietnam for more than a decade, and the Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation is one of three longstanding charity partners in the region.
“As the events unfold, I am heartbroken to witness the immense devastation and suffering that some people, communities and villages are experiencing”, said Hanh Nguyen, General Manager of Vietnam for Intrepid Travel.
“This is a loss no one should ever have to bear, and I deeply urge everyone to join hands for the country we love.”
Intrepid Travel has confirmed that travellers and staff in Vietnam are safe, and trips in Vietnam continue to operate. Groups currently in Northern Vietnam are being rerouted away from affected areas and provided with an alternative itinerary and inclusions.
Trips will resume in affected regions at the earliest opportunity, to ensure local communities continue to benefit from the economic support of tourism, needed now more than ever.
To donate to recovery efforts, please visit The Intrepid Foundation’s Vietnam Typhoon Yagi Appeal.