I was up early this morning. I mean EARLY. As in I finally fell asleep at around 1:30am and was up shortly after 4. Not to worry. Despite the few hours of sleep, the good thing is that when traveling, these odd hours allow me to see a destination bright and early.
This morning, I was out shortly before 6 and walked straight to Hoan Kiem Lake, where I knew I’d find Hanoians doing their morning exercises. I wasn’t, however,  prepared for the huge number of people, on their own and joining classes. A few things have changed around here (like the fact that Wifi is everywhere!) since I last visited 8 years ago.
This woman was actually part of a larger group of about 50 being instructed to loud thumping music – not unlike the gym I go to – but probably about $39 less a month than I pay!
A corner shop near the lake had these birdcages lined up outside. I’m not sure if these were for pets, eating or to be released (for good luck).
This turtle was on a wall at the temple found at Hoan Kiem Lake. Lucky turtle. Well, when you compare him to what I found moments later…
Poor turtles. I think these little fellas are definitely headed to the soup pot.
See more lovely photos at DeliciousBaby’s Photo Friday!
Travel Well!
Beth
Related links:
Photo of the Day: Aloha Oahu
Photo of the Day: Pushkar Camel Fair
Photo of the Day: Vietnam Temples
Victoria says
I’m getting so excited now, looking at pictures of places we will be visting soon. We leave on our round the world trip in November and Vietnam is on our to do list. Those bird cages are so pretty, as is the sunrise.
jackie says
Wonderful shots!
Angela (Travel with a Purpose) says
I love the magical feeling of your first morning in a new place after a long journey. Really makes airplanes seem like time-travel machines!
Amy @ The Q Family says
Love the Sunrise shot. I have to admit that I’m not the early riser but like the old saying ‘The Early Bird Catches the Worm’. And you did capture a lot of great morning ritual. 🙂
JoAnna says
How fantastic!! I can’t wait to go … though I was tempted to shed a tear over that photo of the turtles in the cage.
Lauren from casacasa.org says
Beth – didn’t know you were in Hanoi! My friend Andrew recently moved with his wife and 2 young girls from Seattle to Hanoi (his wife works for PATH). Check out his blog at http://www.onlyok.net
Budget Travel Blogger says
I just love the sunrise picture! It has really inspired me to go to to Hanoi. I’ve never really thought about traveling there before. I’m so excited now!
Kristina says
Beth-
If you have time, you must try the Bun Cha at Bun Cha Dac Kim. It’s the best I’ve ever had and I would go back to Hanoi just to eat there.
Details here; http://formerchef.com/2009/07/10/food-in-hanoi-vietnam-day-2/
Have fun! I loved Hanoi!
Dianne says
Great shots Beth, building up lots of things to do when I go to Vietnam this year!