Saigoneer

    BackSociety » Development » [Photos] 'Da Nang: COASTAL City' – People in the City

    [Photos] 'Da Nang: COASTAL City' – People in the City

    AAA
    Saigoneer is proud to be the media sponsor of Da Nang: COASTAL City, a large-format photo book exploring the urban development, landscapes and people of Central Vietnam. Produced with the support of the Goethe Institute as well as funding from Audi, the publication is split into five chapters, each covering a major theme related to Central Vietnam's urban development. Over the course of the next few weeks, we’ll be giving you an overview of the book's fantastic photos. This week's installment covers the book's fourth chapter, "People in the City". Click here for chapters onetwo and three.

    The coastal cities of Central Vietnam are in close proximity but they could not be more different. There is Da Nang, with its brand spanking new architecture and wide boulevards. Next is Hoi An which, to me, held a surprising contrast between creative innovation and ancient rituals; at the same time, it is probably the biggest tourist shopping center in the whole country. And last but not least, Hue, the former Imperial City, is dominated by the Citadel and still holds its traditions in culture – and really good food.

    The question is how does this affect its citizens? Are they different, too? I went to investigate and visited their living rooms, work places and front yards. But firstly I had to find those people. I wrote emails to strangers and posted requests on social media, and I was quite surprised by the amount of positive replies. Some of the people who replied even recommended their friends and family members. Suddenly, my diary was quite full. It was like a miracle; I got the impression that they where proud of representing their cities and with their guidance I learned many unexpected things.

    All three cities have a pool of young and modern inhabitants; they speak many languages and are really keen to practice English. Among other encounters, I was taken to a wedding, to a group of environmental activists, to the casting of a Buddha statue and to a noodle factory. I was given many wonderful opportunities for city tours and motorbike rides into the surrounding villages. I also met some older people who told me about the impact the war with the United States had on their lives and localities.

    What stood out for me were the differences in culture and tradition. Generally, Vietnam is trying to hold on to traditional values but many people are on the edge of breaking with those. Da Nang is the most open-minded place, probably because of its ongoing push for urban development, newly established tourism and a sudden influx of Vietnamese newcomers as well as foreigners. The city is expanding faster than any other place and it has become a melting pot. Hue is growing much slower and has a lot of culture to offer. Hoi An astonished me by being at the same time old-fashioned and superstitious but also attracting creative individuals, art and craft businesses or organic food establishments.

    In all three cities, I found young people who are struggling with the burdens that come with tradition. Being better educated than ever before, they strive to move forward. They want to be in control of their own destiny. It is staggering how many have a smartphone; selfies and Facebook are as popular in Vietnam as in the west.

    The photo book Da Nang: COASTAL City is available on Amazon as well as at Artbook bookstores in Vietnam for VND900,000. Discount copies (VND700,000) can be ordered directly from Michael Waibel at waibel_michael@yahoo.de.

    [Photos courtesy of Da Nang: COASTAL City]


    Related Articles:

    [Photos] 'Da Nang: COASTAL City' – Architecture and Housing

    [Photos] 'Da Nang: COASTAL City' – Change Over Time

    [Photos] 'Da Nang: COASTAL City' – Views From Above


    If you have enjoyed our work and believe that Saigoneer’s voice is an important one to have, please consider supporting us. Pledge any amount you’re comfortable with in the form of a one-time or recurring donation so we can continue bringing you the stories you love to read.

    Related Articles

    in Development

    5 Buildings That Will Rise Above Saigon in 2016

    Though change has always been fast in Saigon, 2015 was a big year for the city's development, as new skyscrapers, shopping malls and infrastructure projects sprouted all over town. While some structur...

    in Development

    A Vietnam-Laos Railway Could Be on the Horizon

    Late last month, Deputy Minister of Transport Nguyen Ngoc Dong announced the launch of a feasibility study which will explore the possibility of a railway connecting Vientiane with coastal Vung Ang in...

    in Development

    As Myanmar Grows, Yangon Balances History With Modern Development

    Yangon has one of the most intact historic cityscapes in Southeast Asia, and under the current government administration, new development is rising fast. While deliberating over how to develop, Yangon...

    in Development

    As New Emission Standard Deadline Approaches, Vietnam May Not Be Ready

    Even though Vietnam has already set a deadline to comply with European level 4 exhaust emission standards (Euro 4), whether the new legislation is feasible remains unclear.

    in Development

    Asia's Megacities Face Development Trade-off

    The coupling of massive urban migration with heady economic development is hampering the sustainable progress of East and Southeast Asian megacities.

    in Development

    Bac Ninh Flush With Samsung Cash, But Is It Sustainable?

    Samsung’s investment has transformed Bac Ninh province into Vietnam's second-largest exporting center, dramatically boosting the earnings of the local community. 

    Partner Content

    in Resorts

    Local Culture Embraced For Year of the Snake at An Lam Retreats Saigon River

    Year-round, An Lam Retreats Saigon River seeks to capture and share the essence of traditional Vietnamese culture via its unique architectural style, refined cuisine, and activities that recreate fasc...

    in Education

    Viet Nam Tinh Hoa Emerges: A New Identity, The Same Excellence

    “Our new branding is a more authentic reflection of who we are: rooted in Vietnam, yet drawing strength from NLCS (North London Collegiate School). While it may have been easier to remain as NLCS, our...

    in Resorts

    How Meliá Ho Tram Beach Resort Helps Nurture “Forever” Family Memories this Holiday Season

    Our daily lives are consumed by routine obligations like work and school. While these necessities provide for many worthwhile experiences, long, far-flung vacations may be the optimal conditions to cr...

    in Eat & Drink

    Snow Falls in Zion Sky Lounge & Dining While Partiers Redefine Holiday Traditions

    Have you ever wanted to establish a new Holiday tradition?

    in Entertainment

    A Dialogue Between Humanity and Nature Through the Duo Exhibition “Biophilia and Naturalis”

    Amid the chaos of modern life and urban development, where humans are in constant, fast motion, nature is an important element to remind ourselves of and return to. In this duo exhibition by Patricia ...

    in Eat & Drink

    Pink Pearl Restaurant Prioritizes Sustainability with Vietnam’s First Michelin Green Star Restaurant

    Sustainable gastronomy is amongst the most popular recent dining trends while traditional French cuisine is one of the most enduring restaurant experiences. The two are coming together on December 15 ...