A Tourist's Guide to Love: Experience the beauty of Vietnam through movie with Rachael Leigh Cook

The upcoming romantic comedy film A Tourist's Guide to Love, directed by Steven K. Tsuchida and starring Rachael Leigh Cook, streams on Netflix on April 21, 2023. It follows Amanda (Cook), a travel executive who joins a group tour in Vietnam to recover from a broken heart. During her travels, Amanda meets Sinh (Scott Ly), an expat guide who introduces her to a new world of adventure and love that can be found beyond the typical tourist hotspots. As they explore the hidden gems of Vietnam, Amanda and her fellow travelers discover the beauty of a country that is often overlooked by tourists.

The film's breathtaking scenes were entirely shot on location in Vietnam, making it the first US film to do so. Every frame captures the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality of Vietnam. The talented cast includes Missi Pyle, Ben Feldman, Glynn Sweet, Alexa Povah, Jacqueline Correa, Nondumiso Tembe, Andrew Barth Feldman, Morgan Lynee Dudley, NSƯT Lê Thiện, and Quinn Trúc Trần, who all deliver captivating performances that bring the story to life.

This article not only invites readers to watch A Tourist's Guide to Love, but also encourages them to explore Vietnam and visit the stunning filming locations of this movie. Whether you're a movie buff or an avid traveler, this guide provides you with useful tips and recommendations for experiencing the beauty of Vietnam and following in the footsteps of the film's cast and crew. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in this incredible country!

The Charm of Vietnam: A Quick Overview

Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Its diverse landscape ranges from towering mountains in the north to pristine beaches in the south.

The country's history and culture are an eclectic mix of influences from neighboring countries such as China and Cambodia, as well as from European colonizers such as France. This blend of cultures is evident in Vietnam's architecture, traditions, and cuisine.

Vietnam boasts of having one of the most diverse and delicious cuisines in the world, featuring fresh seafood, aromatic herbs, and spicy flavors. The country's street food scene is particularly vibrant, with countless food stalls and markets selling everything from “phở” to “bánh mì”.

Additionally, Vietnam is home to a wealth of historic landmarks, ancient temples, and bustling cities.

Experiencing the Locations in "A Tourist's Guide to Love" in Vietnam

Ha Giang: A Spiritual Journey in the Mountains

Ha Giang is a province in northern Vietnam that is often overlooked by tourists, but it is a hidden gem that boasts stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual significance. The province is known for its vibrant culture, diverse landscape, and mix of cultures, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and exploration.

The scenes filmed in Ha Giang for "A Tourist's Guide to Love" capture the province's natural beauty and spiritual significance. The film's protagonist, Amanda, travels to Ha Giang on a group tour and is awed by the province's towering mountains, lush forests, and pristine rivers.

To experience the beauty of Ha Giang, there are many interesting places to visit. The Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark is a UNESCO World Heritage site that features towering mountains, deep canyons, and unique rock formations. Visitors can take a guided tour of the geopark, explore its many trails and viewpoints, and learn about the region's geology, history, and culture. The Lung Cu Flag Tower, located within the geopark, is a must-visit for stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Ha Giang also features several historic landmarks, ancient temples, and bustling markets. Visitors can explore the well-preserved Dong Van Old Quarter, which is home to several ancient houses and temples dating back to the French colonial era. The historic Vuong Palace, located in the Sa Phin commune, features a unique blend of Chinese and Hmong architectural styles. Meo Vac market is a bustling market located in the heart of Meo Vac town and is a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine. The market is a vibrant hub of activity, featuring countless stalls selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

For those interested in traditional Hmong culture, several villages offer a glimpse into the life of the Hmong people. Thon Tha Village is known for its traditional houses, beautiful scenery, and unique culture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the village, learn about the Hmong people's way of life, and participate in traditional activities such as weaving and farming. Lao Xa and Pho Cao villages are also great places to explore traditional Hmong architecture and culture.

Other attractions in Ha Giang include the stunning Hoang Su Phi Rice Terraces, which are carved into the mountainside and feature a unique blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity. Visitors can take a guided tour of the terraces, learn about their history and culture, and admire their stunning beauty. The crystal-clear Nho Que River is known for its stunning scenery and unique culture. Visitors can take a boat tour of the river, stop at several villages along the way, and learn about the local culture and way of life. The Khau Vai Love Market is a unique cultural event that takes place once a year and is a gathering place for unmarried men and women to meet and form relationships.

Whether you're interested in history, culture, or adventure, Ha Giang has something to offer for everyone. The province's natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual significance make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the authentic Vietnamese culture. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime in Ha Giang.

Ho Chi Minh City: A Bustling Metropolis

Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is Vietnam's largest city and a hub of commerce and culture. The city is known for its bustling streets, towering skyscrapers, and vibrant nightlife.

The scenes filmed in Ho Chi Minh City for "A Tourist's Guide to Love" capture the city's energy and vibrancy. The film's protagonist, Amanda, explores the city's bustling streets and markets, takes in its stunning architecture, and immerses herself in its vibrant culture.

If you're a western traveler visiting Ho Chi Minh City, there are many interesting things and places to experience. The city is known for its bustling streets, towering skyscrapers, and vibrant nightlife. It offers an eclectic mix of colonial architecture, historic landmarks, and cultural attractions. Here are some recommendations.

The War Remnants Museum offers a sobering look at the country's history, with exhibits on the Vietnam War, including photographs, artifacts, and documents. The Ben Thanh Market is a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine, with countless stalls selling everything from souvenirs to fresh produce. The Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace, was the seat of the South Vietnamese government during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the palace's many rooms and learn about the country's history.

The Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is a stunning example of French colonial architecture and features many stained glass windows and intricate carvings. The Saigon Central Post Office is a must-visit for anyone interested in colonial architecture, with many rooms to explore and ornate details to marvel at. The Jade Emperor Pagoda is a historic pagoda dedicated to the Jade Emperor, the ruler of heaven in Chinese mythology. Visitors can explore the pagoda's many rooms and learn about its rich history. The Saigon Opera House is a historic building and a stunning example of French colonial architecture, with many ornate details and a beautiful facade.

For those interested in history, the Cu Chi Tunnels are an impressive network of underground tunnels that were used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Visitors can take a tour of the tunnels, which include trapdoors, living areas, and storage facilities. For those interested in culture, the Thien Hau Temple is a historic temple dedicated to the goddess Thien Hau, who is believed to protect sailors and fishermen. Visitors can explore the temple's many rooms and learn about its rich history.

For those interested in adventure, the Bitexco Financial Tower offers stunning views of the city from its skydeck on the 49th floor. Alternatively, visitors can reach even higher views by visiting the top of the Vietnam Landmark 81 tower. As for nightlife, Ho Chi Minh City boasts countless bars, clubs, and restaurants that cater to both locals and tourists. For those seeking a Western-style nightlife experience, the area around Bui Vien Street in District 1 is a popular destination. It features many bars and clubs that are popular with backpackers and expats. For a more upscale experience, visitors can check out the rooftop bars and lounges in District 1, which offer stunning views of the city skyline. Some popular options include Chill Skybar, Saigon Saigon Rooftop Bar, and Glow Skybar. Live music enthusiasts can head to the Hard Rock Cafe, a popular destination for nightly performances by local and international acts. No matter what your nightlife preferences are, Ho Chi Minh City has something to offer everyone.

The Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a historic zoo and botanical garden that is home to a wide variety of animals and plants, including elephants, tigers, and monkeys. The Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater offers a unique and entertaining cultural experience.

In addition to the above recommendations, the Mekong Delta is a popular destination for visitors to Ho Chi Minh City. The delta is located in southwestern Vietnam and is known for its lush vegetation, floating markets, and traditional villages. Visitors can take a boat tour of the delta, stopping at local markets and villages to learn about the local culture and way of life. It's a great way to experience the natural beauty and vibrant culture of the region.

These are just a few of the many interesting things and places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or adventure, the city has something to offer for everyone.

Hanoi: A Blend of Old and New

Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam and a hub of history, culture, and commerce. The city is known for its blend of traditional and modern architecture, bustling streets, and vibrant nightlife.

The scenes filmed in Hanoi for "A Tourist's Guide to Love" capture the city's unique blend of old and new. The film's protagonist, Amanda, explores the city's historic temples, takes in its stunning architecture, and immerses herself in its vibrant culture.

If you're interested in exploring Hanoi, there are many things and places to experience. The city is known for its blend of traditional and modern architecture, as well as its vibrant culture and history. Here are some recommendations.

The Old Quarter is a maze of narrow streets, ancient houses and temples, and bustling markets. Visitors can explore the many historic sites and learn about the city's rich cultural heritage. The Hoan Kiem Lake, located in the heart of the Old Quarter, is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, with its beautiful scenery and relaxing atmosphere. The Temple of Literature is a historic temple dedicated to Confucius and home to Vietnam's first university. Visitors can explore the temple's many rooms and learn about its rich history. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the country's history, with its many exhibits and displays on the life of Ho Chi Minh. The Hanoi Opera House is a historic building and a stunning example of French colonial architecture, with many ornate details and a beautiful facade.

For a taste of Hanoi's vibrant culture, visitors can take a cooking class to learn how to prepare local dishes like "phở" and "bún chả", or take a painting class to learn how to create their own work of art. They can also visit the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, a unique and entertaining cultural experience. Hanoi is famous for its street food scene, so visitors can try out many local delicacies like "bánh cuốn", “bún đậu", “bún ốc", "bánh mì pâté", and many more

For those interested in history, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology showcases the country's diverse ethnic groups and features many exhibits and displays on their history and culture. The Presidential Palace is a historic building that once served as the residence of the French Governor-General and later as the residence of the President of South Vietnam. Visitors can explore the palace's many rooms and learn about the country's history. Hoa Lo Prison relic, also known as the "Hanoi Hilton," is a historic site that was used by the French colonial government to imprison political prisoners and later by the North Vietnamese government to house American prisoners of war. The prison is open to the public and offers guided tours that provide a glimpse into the harsh conditions and treatment that prisoners endured during their captivity. Visitors can see the cramped cells, torture chambers, and exhibits that showcase the prison's history.

For those seeking adventure, the Hoa Binh Lake is a popular destination for outdoor activities like trekking and cycling. The Perfume Pagoda (aka Chùa Hương) is a complex of Buddhist temples and shrines located in the Huong Tich mountains. Visitors can take a boat ride along the Yen Vi River and then hike to the top of the mountain to explore the many temples and shrines. The Ba Vi National Park is another popular destination for outdoor activities, with its many hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views.

Hanoi's attractions provide a wide range of activities for visitors, from exploring historic sites to immersing yourself in the local culture. Don't miss out on the chance to experience the vibrant energy and stunning beauty of this city.

Da Nang: A Coastal Getaway

Da Nang is a coastal city in central Vietnam known for its stunning beaches, historic sites, and vibrant culture. The city is home to several historic sites and landmarks, including the Marble Mountains and the ancient city of Hoi An.

The scenes filmed in Da Nang for "A Tourist's Guide to Love" capture the city's natural beauty and cultural significance. The film's protagonist, Amanda, takes in the city's stunning beaches, explores its historic sites, and immerses herself in its vibrant culture.

The coastal city of Da Nang boasts stunning beaches, historic sites, and a vibrant culture. Visitors can relax on My Khe Beach, a popular destination for swimming and sunbathing with crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand. The iconic Dragon Bridge, shaped like a dragon and illuminated at night, is one of Da Nang's most recognizable landmarks. Visitors can take a cable car to Ba Na Hills, a mountain resort outside the city that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including a French village and a theme park. For breathtaking views of the city and coastline, visitors can hike to the top of Son Tra Mountain and explore its many trails and viewpoints. The Cham Museum is home to a large collection of Cham artifacts and sculptures, offering a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the Cham people. The Marble Mountains, located just outside of Da Nang, are five marble and limestone hills that are home to several caves and temples, including a stunning view from the top.

For those interested in exploring further, Bach Ma National Park is an hour's drive from Da Nang and features stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The Museum of Cham Sculpture is also located in Da Nang, showcasing a large collection of Cham sculptures and artifacts. Visitors can take a motorbike or car ride along the Hai Van Pass, a scenic route offering breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding countryside. Cao Dai Temple is a fascinating example of the Cao Dai religion, which combines elements of several different religions, including Buddhism, Christianity, and Confucianism. Visitors can explore the traditional Nam O Fish Sauce Village, tour the fish sauce factories, and learn about the traditional production methods. A visit to Lang Co Beach, located about an hour's drive from Da Nang, is a must for anyone looking to relax on a stunning beach. The Thu Bon River runs through Hoi An and offers boat tours of the city's historic buildings and temples. Finally, visitors can take a cooking class to learn how to prepare local dishes like "cao lầu" and "bánh mì".

Da Nang's attractions provide a wide range of activities for visitors, from relaxing on the beach to exploring historic sites and hiking scenic trails. Don't miss out on the chance to experience the vibrant energy and stunning beauty of this coastal city.

Hoi An and My Son: A Glimpse of Ancient History

Hoi An and My Son Sanctuary are two ancient sites in central Vietnam that offer a glimpse into the country's rich history and culture. Hoi An is a well-preserved ancient city known for its well-preserved architecture and rich cultural heritage. My Son is a set of ruins that was once a center of Cham civilization.

The scenes filmed in Hoi An and My Son for "A Tourist's Guide to Love" capture the ancient history and cultural significance of these two sites. The film's protagonist, Amanda, explores the ancient city of Hoi An, takes in its stunning architecture, and immerses herself in its vibrant culture. She also visits the ruins of My Son and learns about the Cham civilization that once thrived there.

If you're interested in experiencing the ancient architecture and history of Hoi An and My Son, we recommend visiting these two sites. Hoi An's Old Town is a maze of narrow streets, ancient houses, and historic temples. Visitors can explore the city's many historic sites and learn about its rich cultural heritage. The town features the Chùa Cầu (aka Pagoda Bridge or Japanese Covered Bridge), an 18th-century bridge known for its unique architecture and intricate carvings, the Hoi An Museum, housed in a 19th-century merchant's house and offering a glimpse into the city's history and culture, and the Tan Ky Old House, featuring beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. Visitors can also check out the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.

For a taste of Hoi An's vibrant culture, visitors can take a cooking class to learn how to prepare local dishes like "cao lầu" and "bánh mì", or take a lantern-making class to learn how to make their own. They can also visit the Reaching Out Tea House, run by people with disabilities, to enjoy a relaxing atmosphere and delicious tea. Hoi An is famous for its tailor shops and leather goods, so visitors can have custom clothing made or shop for souvenirs in the city's many markets. They can also take a leisurely bike ride to explore the city and surrounding countryside, or take a boat ride on the scenic Thu Bon River, with views of the city's historic buildings and temples.

For those seeking adventure, we recommend visiting the Cam Thanh Coconut Village, which offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional way of life in Hoi An, with activities like basket boat rides and cooking classes. They can also visit the Tra Que Vegetable Village, known for its fresh produce, and take a tour to learn about traditional farming methods. The beautiful Cua Dai Beach is located just a short drive from Hoi An and is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. If you have time, you can also visit the beautiful Bay Mau Coconut Forest, located about 30 minutes from Hoi An. It is a coconut forest with seven hectares of dense greenery, and visitors can take a boat ride through the canals and learn about the local culture and history.

For a day trip, visitors can check out the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is a set of ruins that was once a center of Cham civilization. They can also take a day trip to the Marble Mountains, five marble and limestone hills located just outside of Da Nang and home to several caves and temples, as mentioned above. Another option is to take a day trip to Hue, a city located about two hours north of Hoi An. It was the capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty and is known for its historic sites, including the Imperial City and the Thien Mu Pagoda. For island lovers, a day trip to the Cham Islands is a great choice. The Cham Islands are a group of eight small islands located off the coast of Hoi An. Visitors can take a boat tour to the islands and enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and exploring the local fishing villages.

Hoi An and My Son offer a unique glimpse into the ancient history and culture of Vietnam. Whether you're interested in exploring the city's historic sites, immersing yourself in the local culture, or simply enjoying the stunning scenery, these two locations are not to be missed.

Conclusion

Vietnam's natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant energy make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and exploration. The filming locations in "A Tourist's Guide to Love" offer a glimpse into Vietnam's charm and beauty, and we hope that this article has inspired you to visit these stunning locations.

Whether you're interested in trekking through the mountains of Ha Giang, exploring the vibrant culture of Ho Chi Minh City, relaxing on the beaches of Da Nang, or immersing yourself in the ancient history of Hoi An and My Son, Vietnam has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

FAQs

  • What is the plot of the movie?

    The movie that follows Amanda, a travel blogger who finds herself in a love triangle between her tour guide Sinh and her boyfriend John while on a trip to beautiful Vietnam. Through Sinh's encouragement to live life without a guide book, Amanda embarks on a journey of self-discovery and ultimately realizes that she wasn't lost, just not where she was meant to be.

  • What can viewers expect from the movie?

    Viewers can expect to see stunning landscapes and cultural sites in Vietnam. Also, the movie explores the idea of a "vacation romance" and Amanda's desire for a real-life relationship.

  • Can viewers expect to learn about Vietnamese culture through the movie?

    Yes, as the movie is set in Vietnam, viewers can expect to learn about the country's culture, traditions, and landmarks.

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