The pictures, posted in a travel forum with more than 1.7 million members, showed the tourist travelling on a mountain road in northern Vietnam. Some commentators argued her attire was inappropriate in public spaces, especially in areas home to ethnic minority communities with distinct cultural traditions.
Others suggested she may have just finished swimming at Du Gia Waterfall and had not yet changed clothes, calling for more understanding from the public.
A representative of the motorbike rental service confirmed the woman had returned directly from the waterfall and denied she had deliberately chosen to ride through public areas in a bikini. “It is normal for visitors to wear swimsuits at the falls. Unfortunately, when she got on the bike, photos were shared online that led to misunderstanding,” the representative said.
The company said it had removed the images after controversy arose and promised to advise drivers to remind guests to cover up before leaving the site.
Nguyen Dinh Phuc, Chairman of Du Gia Commune, told Dantri/Dtinews on September 11 that local authorities would investigate the case. He stressed the need for tour operators, guides and local officials to ensure cultural sensitivity is maintained while presenting a friendly tourism image.
Du Gia Waterfall has become a popular stop for international travellers exploring the Ha Giang Loop in recent years. Located about 70km from Ha Giang Ward centre, the site can be reached by car or motorbike via Provincial Road 33 through Bac Me or National Highway 4C to Mau Due, then turning onto DT181.
