HIGHLANDS OF VIETNAM

Far up in the misty highlands of northern Vietnam lies the little-known province of Ha Giang. Dotted with hill-tribe markets and steep, narrow roads zigzagging along the mountainsides, this remote region is a place where landscapes are spectacular, culture is preserved, and stories are plentiful. Ethnic minority groups including the Hmong, Dao, and Tay inhabit this distant province in homes stretching from deep valleys to high mountain slopes. Flashes of colorful traditional clothing worn by locals provide a stark contrast to the backdrop of grey rocks jutting out from the hillsides. Little swathes of agricultural land besieged by mountainous terrain make it difficult for them to improve their livelihoods.

Yet amidst the harsh conditions of their surroundings, the people of Ha Giang are resilient. In this series, I examine the complex relationship between people and the environment, highlighting the distinct way of life in Vietnam’s northernmost province. With a focus on sharing the stories of the individuals I met along the way, I seek to convey the dignity, beauty, and strength of those living in this majestic yet challenging corner of the world.