"A Tourist's Guide to Love," the first Netflix movie filmed entirely in Vietnam and set to air on April 27th, is expected to showcase some of Vietnam's hidden gems to a global audience. As the first international movie to be set in Vietnam after the pandemic, it has the potential to create a new image of Vietnam in the minds of viewers.
The producers have released selected snapshots from the movie, which give viewers an idea of the hot destinations to be featured. By watching the movie, you can discover some of the lesser-known places that Vietnam has to offer.
If you're planning a trip to Vietnam soon, this movie can serve as a valuable reference to explore these undiscovered places before the crowds arrive!
Amanda Riley, the lead actress, poses for a photograph wearing a traditional Áo dài dress in an old wooden house. The Áo dài is arguably the most popular attire for Vietnamese women, fitting well into a variety of occasions, such as business, festivals, formal events, and even school scenes.
While it's easy to find tailors in Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, or Hanoi to rent or custom-make an Áo dài, the best place to go is undoubtedly Hoi An. Many tailors in the old town can take your measurements and have your stunning Áo dài ready in less than 24 hours!
In a rural garden by a paddy field, Amanda assists Bà Nội (grandma) with cleaning the worshipping incensory. This scene is a common occurrence in many provinces throughout Vietnam. However, based on information from the movie, this particular house might be situated on the outskirts of Ha Giang City in the far north.
Amanda shares intimate moments with Sinh, her tourist guide and possible boyfriend, as they ride a Xích Lô, a non-motorized tricycle, through the busy streets of Hanoi. The Xích Lô provides a comfortable seat to wind through the narrow streets of Hanoi's old town, offering a slow and immersive way to observe local life.
Amanda and Sinh bask in the glow of the sparkling lanterns in Hoi An. On the 15th day of every lunar month, the entire town is illuminated by thousands of lanterns, transporting visitors back in time and creating a magical atmosphere.
Once again, Amanda and Sinh share an intimate moment in the luminous setting of Hoi An, releasing a floating lantern as a way to express their wishes for luck and happiness.
Bà Nội (grandma), beautifully dressed in her áo dài and happily expressed, during the most important festival of Vietnamese people - the Tết. Celebrated during the last day and the first four days of the lunar new year, Tết is a time of reunion, festivals, and plentiful food.
Visiting Vietnam during this time requires extra effort as many businesses are closed for an extended period. However, if you have a local family to share the time with, it will undoubtedly be one of the most memorable trips to Vietnam.
Amanda is in awe of the ancient temple at My Son Sanctuary. Situated in the middle of the jungle in a valley, about 2 hours away from Hoi An, My Son is one of the most important archaeological sites in Vietnam and a world heritage site. A perfect day trip from Hoi An or Da Nang, this journey will transport you back in time and reveal the glorious history of a disappeared nation - the Champa.
Sinh and his friend are seen enjoying a shopping spree at Ben Thanh Market, located at the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. This bustling city has a lot to offer, from delicious food to fascinating history and diverse culture. It's the perfect place to start or end any trip to Vietnam.