Ha Long Bay: A Stunning Backdrop for International Collaboration

Following their performance in Vietnam in October 2024, the acclaimed string quartet Bond ventured to the breathtaking Ha long Bay to film their latest music video, Victory – Bond in Vietnam. This project represents a significant effort to showcase Vietnam’s beauty and culture to a global audience.

Promoting Vietnam Through music and International artistry

The Nhan Dan newspaper, in collaboration with Good Morning Vietnam, co-hosted the music video production. This initiative marks the second time Vietnam has partnered with international artists to promote its national image through music. In 2023, legendary saxophonist Kenny G filmed the music video Going Home in Hanoi.

Last year, Kenny’s music video was widely shared on the artist’s personal page and spread all over the world. Halong Bay is already very famous. But we want to contribute a little to promoting tourism throughout Vietnam in a different way, including halong Bay tourism.Through the images and music of the world’s famous Bond artists.

A Strategic Vision for Cultural and Tourism Promotion

According to Le chuok-min, a key figure in Vietnamese media and public mobilization, the project was meticulously planned a year in advance. the goal is to leverage the global appeal of artists like Bond to enhance Vietnam’s tourism sector and cultural presence on the world stage. Vietnam’s tourism sector is steadily recovering, with international arrivals increasing by 72% in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the previous year, according to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism.Initiatives like this music video aim to further accelerate this growth.

The Power of Music in Showcasing Vietnamese Identity

Nguyen to Jong,the production director,believes that these collaborations,encompassing both live concerts and music videos,are instrumental in presenting the best of Vietnamese music while concurrently promoting the nation’s cultural values,history,and people to a global audience. This approach aligns with a broader trend of countries using cultural exports to enhance their soft power and attract international visitors.

Production Director Nguyen to Jong believes that live concerts and music videos in accordance with this new direction will show the best music in Vietnam and contribute to promoting Vietnam’s cultural values,history and people around the world.

A Symphony of Music and Scenery

The internationally acclaimed string quartet, Bond, recently unveiled their latest music video, a stunning visual journey set against the breathtaking backdrop of Vietnam’s Halong bay. The video, already generating significant buzz online, showcases the natural beauty and cultural richness of this UNESCO World Heritage site, further solidifying its position as a premier tourist destination.

Behind the Scenes: Challenges and Triumphs

creating a music video of this scale in a natural surroundings presented unique challenges. According to Nguyen To Yi -Zong,the production manager from the Bond Team,the shoot faced unexpected hurdles,including adverse weather conditions.

The video was only three minutes, and we had to look back at the place ten times. But the typhoon Yagi had to start all the scenery we chose. but no matter how strong the typhoon, the long history and beauty of Halong Bay will never change its value.

Nguyen To Yi -Zong, Bond Team Production Manager

Despite these obstacles, the team persevered, creating a visually captivating experience that highlights the enduring appeal of Halong Bay. The production team also released behind-the-scenes footage, revealing the complexities of constructing a floating stage on Dragon I Island.

Halong bay: A Jewel of Southeast Asia

Halong Bay, with its emerald waters and towering limestone karsts, attracts millions of tourists each year. In 2024 alone, Vietnam welcomed over 15 million international visitors, a significant portion drawn to the allure of Halong Bay. This collaboration with Bond is expected to further boost tourism and showcase the region’s unique charm to a global audience.

Bond’s Enduring Connection with Vietnam

The members of Bond expressed their enthusiasm for the project and their thankfulness for the Vietnamese crew and the stunning location. Elphes, a member of the quartet, shared her positive experience:

I had a great time in Vietnam, I was able to see careful consideration and successful performances. producers, lighting teams, stages, audiences, planners were great, and I was able to send the most memorable moments in Vietnam.

Elphes, Bond Quartet Member

This sentiment underscores the successful collaboration and the positive impact of showcasing Halong Bay’s beauty through international artistic endeavors.

Image gallery

A selection of images from the music video shoot, capturing the essence of Halong Bay and the energy of the Bond quartet.

‘Victory’ in Vietnam: A Symphony for Tourism

The iconic Bond quartet’s rendition of ‘Victory’ in the breathtaking setting of Halong Bay is resonating deeply with officials and tourism stakeholders alike. The music video, filmed against the backdrop of the UNESCO World Heritage site, is being hailed as a powerful tool to attract visitors and showcase the region’s unique beauty.

Kao Tuong Hui,Vice Chairman of the People’s Committee,expressed his admiration for the music video,emphasizing the emotional impact of the carefully selected visuals. He noted the crew’s skillful use of angles and imagery, which he believes will considerably benefit both Quang Ninh province and Vietnam’s tourism sector as a whole.

MV believes that it will bring great value to Quang Ninseong Tourism as well as Vietnam’s tourism. We are doing our best to make Quang Ninseong tourism a groundbreaking vanguard.

Kao Tuong Hui, Vice Chairman of the People’s Committee

Ambitious Goals: Halong Bay as a World-Class Destination

Quang Ninh province has set ambitious targets for tourism growth, aiming to attract 20 million visitors, including 5 million international tourists, this year alone. The province recently submitted a proposal to UNESCO to designate Halong Bay as its third world natural heritage site, underscoring its commitment to preserving and promoting the area’s natural wonders.

This initiative aligns with the global trend of experiential travel,where tourists seek authentic and immersive experiences. According to recent data from the World Tourism association (UNWTO),cultural and natural heritage sites are increasingly popular destinations,driving economic growth and fostering cross-cultural understanding.

Preserving Heritage: A Balancing Act

Mr. Hui also addressed the critical importance of preserving Halong Bay’s natural landscapes, notably Dragon Island. He emphasized the responsibility of safeguarding and promoting the heritage’s value, highlighting the stringent regulations governing activities within the UNESCO-designated area.

It is not simple to preserve the heritage. We are responsible for preserving and promoting the value of the heritage. The Cultural Heritage Law regulates all activities related to miscarriage. UNESCO has a national achievement, so it is not easy to affect the core regions even if you invest.

Kao Tuong Hui, Vice Chairman of the People’s Committee

Balancing tourism growth with environmental protection is a key challenge for many heritage sites worldwide. Lasting tourism practices, such as limiting visitor numbers, promoting eco-amiable transportation, and investing in conservation efforts, are essential to ensure the long-term preservation of these invaluable assets.