In Vietnam, as in many developing countries, real life takes place on the sidewalks. Communities and families come together here. They share their meals. They drink coffee. They down beer. And they get their hair done.
I loved these gals standing around, gossiping, and beautifying themselves with not one shred of self-consciousness.
I’ve always loved the Asian people’s ability to do their morning exercises pretty much anywhere. While the rest of us are heading off to the gym, eyeballs glued to a TV screen, these folks have it right. They pick the prettiest part of a city and just get to work. Hoan Kiem Lake is the best place in all of Vietnam to people watch and early mornings are ideal since everyone’s out before the heat of the day sets in.
Flowers are brought in from the fertile rural areas around Hanoi and then sold from the back of bicycles. The vendors make their way around the city until the goods are all sold.
Sadly, the city has banned most cyclos from Hanoi’s streets. But there are these “official” ones that will take people around on a tour of the Old Quarter. I do miss the days of bargaining for a ride that would take me most anywhere.
Interested in Vietnam? We regularly run tours to Vietnam and Cambodia through our sister company, WanderTours!
Travel Well!
Beth
Related Links
Vietnam Travel Tips
Beth’s Vietnam & Cambodia Photo Gallery
Camels & Chocolate says
I’m dying to go to Hanoi and come back with an entire custom-made wardrobe!
Nicole says
I love the photo of the women doing hair in the street. They seem to be having a lovely time together in the midst of the community goings-ons.
Anna says
Great photos! Dreaming of going back to South East Asia now…
Please check out my first submission to Photo Friday:http://www.lovebabylovetravel.com/forth-rail-bridge-jet-skiers/
All the best,
Anna
Kerry says
the tai chi society here does their morning exercises by a lake where I often run or walk. when we cross paths, it always seems peaceful to see them.
Amy @ The Q Family says
We *almost* made it to Vietnam. Unfortunately, time wasn’t on our side. Looks like a great place to visit!
Fida says
Hanoi is one of my favored cities. It’s been 11 years now that I have been there – really time to go back ๐ Thank you for posting such good photos that depict Hanoi life as it is. Memories came flooding in…;)
Theodora says
I love the ability to live life in public, too. The houses open at the front. Dining, grooming, whatever, all on the streetside.
Thanks for bringing back the memories of Hanoi, a city I love.
Liv says
Great photos, Beth. I loved snooping around the Old Quarter when I was in Hanoi.
Dominique says
I love the fact that the exercisers are facing the water view as they work out ๐
Zablon Mukuba says
the photos are awesome, you bring Hanoi to life with your post