The Road to Saigon
Le Van Luong: A microcosm of Vietnam’s transformation
The eighteen-kilometer stretch of Le Van Luong, snaking from rural Cần Giuộc to bustling District 7 in Saigon, pulsates with life. This thoroughfare reflects the dynamic changes sweeping across Vietnam. Nine bridges punctuate its path, mirroring the ebb and flow of people and commerce that define the road. As Saigon relentlessly expands southward, engulfing once-rural landscapes, a similar movement surges in the opposite direction, with individuals drawn to the city’s promise of opportunity.
Capturing a shifting landscape
“The Road to Saigon” is a multimedia project encompassing a documentary film and an interactive website. Through ethnographic research, we delve into the lives of those who call Le Van Luong home. We explore the profound impact of urbanisation, migration, and Saigon’s sprawl on Vietnamese society.
Personal connection, profound insights
My personal connection to Le Van Luong is deep. Countless cycling journeys over the past twenty-seven years have revealed a vibrant tapestry of human experiences. From everyday necessities to life’s milestones, everything seems to be available along this remarkable road. Le Van Luong, for me, embodies the dynamic spirit of Vietnam – a nation in constant flux. While I yearn to have documented this change two decades ago, I hope this project serves as a reference point for future comparisons.
A rich tapestry of stories
“The Road to Saigon” brings you face-to-face with the diverse individuals who navigate this bustling artery. We meet the ferry captain connecting Long An to the evolving city, the vendors crafting rice rolls and distilling rice wine, the shopkeepers selling dried squid and tailoring clothes. We encounter the doctor alongside the factory worker, the florist beside the farmer, the singer next to the property broker. Each resident has a unique story, a burning hope, and a dream propelling them forward.
A journey of hope and resilience
Le Van Luong is not just a road; it’s a pathway to a brighter future. It’s a testament to the unwavering determination of those who migrate to Saigon, seeking to lay new foundations for themselves and their families. Join us on this journey. Explore the lives on Le Van Luong, delve into the values that guide this community, and witness the incredible resilience that fuels their pursuit of dreams. As you embark on this exploration, remember that the road ahead is always brimming with hope for the people of Le Van Luong.
