Taking Ao Dai Around the World: One Photographer's Mission
A Vietnamese photographer is documenting "ao dai" at 100 landmarks across 100 countries. Now at 70 locations, this project turns Vietnam's most recognizable garment into a global cultural bridge—one photograph at a time.
Why I Started Photographing Ao Dai Across the Globe
For years, I've traveled with intention. In 70 countries so far, my luggage always contains the same items: a Vietnamese flag, a conical hat, a checkered scarf, and several "ao dai." Not as souvenirs to collect dust—but as tools to do something specific: introduce Vietnam.
The project came from conversations with travelers I met abroad. Foreign friends kept saying the same thing: wear the "ao dai" in front of famous landmarks and photograph it. They saw something I'd intuited but never articulated—that a traditional Vietnamese garment against an iconic global site creates a kind of visual handshake between cultures.
The goal is 100 ao dai photos at 100 famous landmarks in 100 countries. I'm at 70 now.
What Happens When People Recognize It
The most rewarding part isn't the photography itself. It's the moment a stranger looks at you wearing the "ao dai" and says the word aloud: "Ao dai!" That recognition—from someone who has never been to Vietnam—carries weight. It means the garment communicates something real about our culture. It means it works.
Those moments reinforce why I'm doing this. The "ao dai" isn't just fabric. It's a symbol that exists independent of any explanation I give. When a tourist in Canada or France or Japan can name it, can see its elegance without context, that's when I know the work matters.
Image by Zeus Studio Zeus Studio via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA)
Niagara Falls and the 70th Milestone
In late July, I reached my 70th location at Niagara Falls. I chose a vibrant blue "ao dai"—the color meant to signal hope—and positioned myself against the roar of water that straddles the U.S.-Canada border.
There's something deliberate about selecting each landmark and each garment color. The research is exhaustive. Which shade of "ao dai" will complement this site? What time of day gives the best light? How do I get the framing right so the landmark frames the garment, not swallows it?
The logistics are their own puzzle. Border crossings, travel permits, finding the right angle when a location has restrictions. But that friction is part of the commitment.
Image by Zeus Studio Zeus Studio via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA)
The Ao Dai as a Bridge
This project turns the "ao dai" into something beyond clothing. It becomes a conversation starter. A visual proof that Vietnamese culture is distinctive, elegant, and worth knowing.
By placing it in diverse international contexts—against natural wonders, architectural feats, urban sprawls—I'm making a claim: Vietnam belongs in the world's cultural conversation. Not as exotic, not as backdrop. As equal.
The hope is that people who see these images will search for more about Vietnam. They'll wonder about the garment's history, how it's worn, why it matters. A single photo can spark that curiosity. It's modest work, but it scales.
What's Next: 30 Countries to Go
With 70 down, 30 remain. Each new location is fresh territory. The planning never stops—researching landmarks, coordinating travel, thinking about which "ao dai" color and style will create the strongest visual statement for each site.
It's challenging and logistically complex. But it's also a form of cultural pride that doesn't require speeches or arguments. Just a photograph. Just the "ao dai" in the frame.
At the end of 100, I'll have a visual archive of what it looks like when Vietnam travels. When our garment meets the world's most recognized places. That's the real goal: proof that culture travels, connects, and persists.
Going to Vietnam? Eat and travel smarter.
Monthly: new dishes, off-the-beaten-path destinations, and itineraries — straight to your inbox. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Join 0 expats. (We just launched.)
More from All of Vietnam
Other articles covering the same region.
Vietnam Vaccinations: What You Actually Need Before You Go
No shots are legally required to enter Vietnam. But a few are smart, depending on where you're going and how long you'll stay.
Drinking Water in Vietnam: What's Safe, What Isn't, and Why
Tap water isn't safe to drink straight from the tap in Vietnam. Here's what you need to know about bottled water, ice, brushing teeth, and hot drinks.
Eating with Food Allergies in Vietnam: Peanuts, MSG, Fish Sauce & Gluten
Peanuts hide in desserts and sauces, MSG seasons nearly everything, and fish sauce is in almost every savory dish. Here's how to navigate Vietnamese food safely.
More in Travel Tips
More articles from the same category.
Wifi and Internet in Vietnam: What to Expect and How to Stay Connected
Free wifi is nearly everywhere in Vietnamese cities, but speeds drop in rural areas. Here's what works, where to find it, and what to pay.
Vietnam Currency Guide: VND Notes, Colors & How to Avoid Common Scams
A breakdown of Vietnamese dong notes, their colors, and the change scams that catch travelers. Learn how to spot fake notes and protect yourself at markets and street food stalls.
Airport to City: Getting from Tan Son Nhat, Noi Bai & Da Nang into Town
Skip the touts and overpriced taxis. Here's what Grab costs, which buses actually run, and how to avoid the classic arrival scams at Vietnam's three busiest airports.
Grab vs Be vs Taxi in Vietnam: How to Choose
Grab dominates, but Be is cheaper for locals. Traditional taxis still reliable. Here's what each option costs, when to use it, and why some are safer than others.
Renting a Motorbike in Vietnam: License, Insurance & Where to Rent
What you legally need, how much it costs, and which rental shops in Hanoi, Saigon, and Da Nang won't leave you stranded.
Vietnam Sleeper Bus Guide: What to Expect, How to Book
Sleeper buses are the cheapest way to travel long distances in Vietnam, but comfort and reliability vary. Here's what to pack, which operators to trust, and how to book.