Unlike Western cultures that generally prize a bronze complexion as a symbol of vitality or leisure time spent outdoors, the Vietnamese, particularly women, loathe the kiss of the sun. Like many other aspects of Vietnamese culture this was inherited from the Chinese who value fair skin as a symbol of status--an indication that you don't have to do manual labor exposed to the elements.
On a sunny day in Vietnam you'll see Western tourist on the beach or pool-side spending the precious hours of their vacations baking to a lobster red hue, while the Vietnamese women cover all but their eyes for a short motorbike ride to the corner store.
Humans are funny creatures
Typical attire for a female laborer despite the 90+ degree humid heat
I'm glad that you're enjoying Vietnam so much! As a Vietnamese-Canadian, I have been longing to return to Vietnam for some time! Have a lovely adventure... and try the nuoc mia and peanut-butter milk!
ReplyDeleteAnd yes - we do value porcelain skin - this is because we peel and burn easily. SPF 75 is rampant in my household.
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