March 16, 2011: COFFEE and Ben Tanh Market!

Today, we had no classes at UEF, but rather one large day-visit at the Viet Thai Corporation, the creator of Highlands Coffee! The first half of their presentation was done by one of the Thai brothers themself, and he was extremely knowledgeable and, for being the chief of staff for a multimillion-dollar firm, was the most down-to-earth person that our group had encountered thus far. He spoke of his trials and tribulations when he was little, his family going from rags to riches many different times throughout his life, and his final success along with his brother. The Thais’ story is inspiring to say the least, and they represent a prime example of how hard work and dedication can yield reward and satisfaction. After drinking some excellent Robusta from Highlands, many of us ventured to the legendary Ben Tanh Market. This enclosed pavilion is absolutely filled with pretty much everything and anything one would want to buy. After looking around for about an hour an a half and successfully bartering, I walked away with some pretty cool items to bring back as gifts.