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A Tourist's Guide to Love review by MakeYourAsia

A Tourist's Guide to Love Review

Lights, camera, Vietnam! Whenever movies feature Vietnam, people often associate it with wars and history. But for once, it is featuring Vietnam while bringing us on a journey of love, culture, and family bonding. ‘A Tourist’s Guide to Love’, a Netflix original film, offering a refreshing perspective as it whisks you away on a journey through Vietnam, featuring Saigon, Hoi An, Da Nang, Ha Giang, and Hanoi. The film follows Amanda, an American travel executive as she goes on a business trip to Vietnam after her recent breakup. Little did she know that her journey would unexpectedly lead to romance with her Vietnamese tour guide, Sinh.

In the movie, Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, comes alive as the film masterfully captures the heart of Vietnamese culture. Iconic Ben Thanh Market scenes show people connecting while eating Vietnamese delicacies like fresh spring rolls and trying Durian fruit. Amanda’s journey in this bustling city takes an enriching turn as she acquires bargaining skills from her tour guide, Sinh. This portrayal adds depth to the film’s vibrant depiction of Saigon.

Other important filming locations such as the famous Saigon Central Post Office and the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, serve as historic landmarks that beautifully illustrate the city's unique blend of French colonial architecture and Vietnamese culture.

Now, let's explore Hoi An, a true gem among Vietnam's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Several scenes were filmed here including a romantic scene in a lantern-lit alleyway and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. The town’s unique charm and history create the perfect backdrop for the movie’s themes of love and adventure.

In the film, you'll also witness the magic of Tết (Lunar New Year), the most significant celebration in Vietnamese culture. A breathtaking lion dance rehearsal at the Fujian Assembly Hall will leave you mesmerized. And for a truly unforgettable evening, experience a lantern boat ride in the charming old town of Hoi An, as you release flower lanterns into the river. You'll cherish these moments forever.

Da Nang, a coastal gem, takes center stage, and it truly shines. This vibrant coastal city offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, establishing itself as a top destination in Vietnam.

Beyond the mesmerizing My Son Sanctuary and the iconic Golden Hand Bridge, Da Nang opens doors to a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. Spend your days lounging on pristine beaches, explore the wonders of the Marble Mountains, and savor delicious local cuisine at lively markets. Da Nang's vibrant atmosphere and the warmth of its people create the perfect setting for travelers seeking a blend of culture, relaxation, and adventure.

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Now, let's go to Ha Giang, the hometown of Sinh, the tour guide. Ha Giang's breathtaking landscapes, with towering mountains and lush valleys, serve as a magnificent backdrop as our travel group immerses itself in the rich culture and traditions of Tết (Vietnamese Lunar New Year). In the film, this celebration beautifully encapsulates the heart of Vietnam — reuniting with family, paying tribute to ancestors, and preserving cultural heritage.

Tết represents a time for introspection, renewal, and strengthening family bonds, making it Vietnam's most cherished and widely celebrated festival. The film masterfully captures these sentiments, leaving us with a profound appreciation of Ha Giang's cultural richness.

The final destination on Amanda's journey is Hanoi, the heart and soul of Vietnam, a city steeped in rich history and culture. In the film, Hanoi is portrayed as a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy, where centuries-old traditions harmoniously coexist with the pace of modern life. The film beautifully showcases Hanoi's vibrant streets, from the historic Hoa Lo Prison and the bustling Dong Xuan Market.

One standout scene captures Amanda's personal growth as she conquers her fear of crossing the bustling traffic in this dynamic city. Hanoi's vibrant streets become a transformative experience, symbolizing resilience and adaptability in unfamiliar situations. Witnessing Amanda's triumph adds an inspiring dimension to her journey, showcasing her ability to embrace new challenges and overcome them with courage and determination.

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