Vietnam beaches

I noted a travel reviewer today praising Vietnam's miles and miles of clean sand and blue-water (except around the Delta) beaches, with practically no one on them but a few Westerners.  As the reviewer noted, this is because the standard of beauty in Vietnam is whiteness -- as little tan as possible.

Indeed, it is funny that a resident of a tropical country is diagnosed with vitamin D deficiency and advised to take a supplement.  Especially the women, but even the men cover themselves when they go out -- really cover themselves -- so much that it amazes me they can see where they are going -- and not for religious reasons but for beauty reasons.

Ever hear of "whitening cream?"  I don't know that the stuff works since I think I could well stand to be less white.  Practically every cosmetic sold makes some sort of claim along those lines.

A typical American or ANZean or European landing in Vietnam finds themselves categorized as "beautiful" or "handsome" if they have a big nose and big ears, things that of course most Westerners would rather correct.  The same of course applies throughout Asia to having round eyes.

Being overweight is also not such a big deal, and age is far more respected (although the Vietnamese will admit they, like everyone else, think youth is more sexy -- I think that is a genetic trait so not as culturally set).

In short, here is a place where it don't hurt at all to be ghostly pale, have a big nose and ears, be a bit sticky and even a little long in the tooth.  Do, though, have your teeth as straight and white as possible.  This seems to be something all cultures agree on.  Do also be clean and well-groomed and dress up a little.