A video capturing a group of foreign tourists moving bricks in Ha Giang went viral on September 13, sparking humorous comments online about tourists "paying to work in Vietnam".
Dinh Hung, the driver from Jasmine Tours, explained that he guided the group of 9 Australian men on their trip through Ha Giang from September 9 to 12. He encouraged them to engage with local life, and they embraced the opportunity. On their first day, after Hung suggested it, they joined in the rice harvest and expressed their desire for similar experiences.
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The group of foreign tourists moving bricks in Ha Giang. Photo: NVCC |
The group of foreign tourists moving bricks in Ha Giang. Photo: NVCC
On the third day, after lunch in Mau Due commune, the group encountered local women moving bricks. Surprised to see women engaged in such strenuous labor, the tourists offered to help. After receiving permission and instructions, the group quickly learned the task and spent about 30 minutes moving a substantial number of bricks, significantly assisting the women.
"Being all men, they were agile and eager to help. They paid for a vacation, but ended up working under the midday sun, and everyone was happy about it," Hung said. In the video, Hung jokingly plays the role of a foreman, urging his "foreign workers" to work faster. The Australian tourists were delighted to find their video had gone viral, making them "famous" in Vietnam.
On their final day in Ha Giang, the group had no planned local activities. However, heavy rain the previous day had flooded the Thuong road in Yen Minh commune. Unable to pass, they improvised by using wooden poles through the rear wheels of their motorcycles, allowing 4-5 men to carry each bike.
Australian tourists carrying their motorcycles through a flooded section of Thuong road. Video: Jasmine Tours
With 9 motorcycles, the group quickly crossed the flooded section. However, they then spent nearly two hours helping other stranded tourists and locals before continuing their journey. Hung noted that foreign visitors to Ha Giang are typically young, approachable, and open to new experiences, often eager to engage with and assist the local community.
A representative from Jasmine Ha Giang confirmed that foreign tourists in Ha Giang are generally laid-back, unpretentious, and keen to explore the region's unique aspects. According to Hung, Ha Giang attracts international visitors, especially young adventurers, with its unspoiled beauty and the warm hospitality of the local people. Tour companies often organize activities like farming and gardening to cater to the demand for immersive cultural experiences.
Tu Nguyen
