One Music Video Turns Cultural Destinations Into Hot Check-In Spots

A music video can now serve as a travel map. After Phuong My Chi released “Heaven With My Lover,” young viewers began seeking out cultural sites shown in the production, including Ao Ba Om, Vam Ray Pagoda and Stork Pagoda.

Ao Ba Om, a landmark associated with Khmer culture in the former Tra Vinh area and now part of Vinh Long province, appears in the video with its ancient trees, water and distinctive southern Khmer setting. After the video spread widely on social media, young visitors came to take photographs. Some rented Khmer clothing for photo shoots inspired by the production.

The video also brought attention to familiar locations in Tra Vinh. It was released on Aug. 12, 2026, and surpassed 7 million YouTube views within a week, reaching the top of both the overall and music trending charts. Its imagery incorporated Khmer cultural elements, including wedding scenes, wrist-tying rituals, the Rom Vong dance and community activities.

Interest in the locations has prompted some travel businesses to consider adding them to tours. TST Tourist created a “Heaven With My Lover” itinerary from Tra Vinh to An Giang, including Vam Ray Pagoda and Stork Pagoda. A similar pattern followed Hoa Minzy’s “Bac Bling,” released in March 2025 and filmed at sites including Do Temple, Ba Chua Kho Temple, Dau Pagoda, Dong Ho painting village and Phu Lang pottery village. Bac Ninh later organized free weekend tours to locations featured in the video, and some trips filled quickly.