Durian fruit takes role in ‘A Tourist’s Guide to Love’

In a scene filmed at Ben Thanh Market in downtown Ho Chi Minh City, travel executive Amanda, played by Rachael Leigh Cook, is invited to try durian but feels sick at the notoriously strong smell of the tropical fruit.

She initially hesitates for a moment but then decides to try some.

“I did try the durian. I was impressed by the taste. It’s in the family of the sweetness of a mango, almost. I found the consistency [was] what I couldn’t really get behind. And obviously this smell, it is as advertised,” she told Condé Nast Traveler.

Primarily grown in tropical countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia, the durian is distinctive for its large size, strong odor and thorn-covered rind.

Many countries across Asia have banned durian from public transport, hotels, and other enclosed spaces, which testifies to the fruit’s strong stench.

However, its stinky aroma belies a rich, creamy flavor, and the fruit has become a popular staple used to prepare specialities such as cakes, ice cream, shaved ice, fritters, and sweet Thai-style soup.