In the cooler hours of the morning, before the tourists take over the yellow streets of Hội An, local couples dressed in traditional costumes arrive for a photo shoot. Weddings, anniversaries, engagements or portraits, many couples choose the less commercial end of Nguyễn Thái Học street for its colourful and historic built background. No one seems to mind my presence alongside or behind the professional photographer, though with my simple lens, the glare makes it hard to focus.
The old town near the Hội An’s historic district, is recognised as an exceptionally well-preserved example of a South-East Asian trading port dating from the 15th to 19th century. Chinese and Japanese influences can be seen in the shop fronts, houses and old businesses in the streets closest to the wharf. It is a city requiring a leisurely week or more of you wish to fathom its charms.
Women often choose to wear the áo dài, the Vietnamese national costume, for these portraits.
Other portraits taken in Hội An, Vietnam, can be viewed here and here.
ALMOST ITALIAN 
What beautiful photos and people!
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Thanks Mimi.
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Once again Francesca your images capture a thousand words. For us of those who have had the pleasure of strolling the streets of rural Vietnam and experienced its beauty, serenity and happy, happy people – it shows the resilience of their people who have had such atrocities brought against them. May they forever have peace in their rightful country.
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It is remarkable how forgiving and welcoming the Vietnamese people are. Resilient, and beautiful.
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*an irreverent smile* Perchance, thank God, in some ways we all are the same! Here: a quite formal and very beautiful bride with a guy who could not try to be more nonchalant and ‘modern’ 😉 !
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Ah. yes, blokes are all the same when it comes to dressing up!
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Enjoyed it so much when i was there in 2014
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A highlight of a trip around Vietnam I am sure.
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What do men traditionally wear? I am trying to think back to what I’ve seen. I’m assuming the white linen suit isn’t traditional?
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No, men often wear a version of the Ao Dai too. White linen is definitely not trad.
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I love, love, love Hoi An and want to go c=back one day.
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Beautiful people indeed ..and that dress is a stunner 😃
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Don’t you love Au dai dresses? I bought one back in 1996- I still have it even though this old body can’t quite squeeze into it now. If only!
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Hoian Tailors are talented in making Ao Dai. Ao Dai Hoi An has become such a famous brand of charming and skillfully tailor-made that every lady in Vietnam wishes to have one.
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Glad you were able to learn and experience the culture of Vietnam! (: don’t miss out on the street market! many delicious foods to offer.
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Yes, went there also. Thanks.
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What a great post! I too love ao dai and have recently posted about my wedding ao dai.
https://ayennyformythoughts.wordpress.com
Thank you for sharing!!
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Love Ao Dais and I think it would make the perfect wedding dress.
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amazing Post! loved it
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Thank you kindly.
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