I had always wanted to visit Vietnam. It was a country that fascinated me growing up, sadly so often associated with the war, but I knew there had to be so much more to it.

I have been fortunate enough to scout locations across much of the country over the past 30 years for television commercials, stills photography and feature films, most recently for Warner Bros.’ Pan.

Vietnam is simply an incredible place. From the breathtaking rice terraces of Sapa in the far north to the peaceful Ninh Binh River, where limestone karsts rise dramatically from the water, every region feels completely different. Then there is the unforgettable beauty of Halong Bay, with its thousands of limestone islands, the mountain jungles and spectacular viewpoints of Cat Ba Island, the magnificent Ban Gioc (Detian) Waterfall on the Chinese border, the vast Son Doong and Hang En cave systems near Dong Hoi, and the seemingly endless pepper plantations of southern Vietnam. Finally, there is Hanoi’s atmospheric Old Quarter, with its beautiful Opera House, bustling ancient streets and incredible street food.

As a Location Manager, Vietnam offers almost limitless possibilities. Whether you’re looking for pristine beaches, dense jungle, dramatic mountain landscapes, rivers, caves, colonial architecture or vibrant cities, the country has an astonishing variety of locations, all within relatively easy travelling distance.

It remains one of my favourite countries in the world, and every visit has revealed somewhere new to explore. If you’re looking for a country with breathtaking scenery, warm and welcoming people, and extraordinary filming opportunities, Vietnam should be high on your list.