Why Did The Chicken Cross The Road?

Hanoi, Vietnam – Day 13 (30/12/11) 

We had another interesting and exiting day in Hanoi as we roamed the buzzing streets, swerving through a flurry of traffic, to shop for fresh fruit and colorful clothing. The traffic here is like jumping head first into a Grand Theft Auto video game, scooters are coming at you on the side walk and there are no pedestrian crossings. In order to get across the street you must slowly step out into the constant stream of motorists at a consistent pace and trust that they will swerve to miss you...and they will. It’s all about the trust, just close your eyes and go, do not stop do not collect $200.00. Under no circumstances should you step backwards and you will make it to the other side of the road.

Hanoi has been our most authentic taste of Asia, and it has been truly amazing to really immerse ourselves in this raw culture. The air is chilly and with no heating but the comfort of another layer of clothing I realize how much I take something as simple as heating and air conditioning for granted. Even though we cannot speak a word of Vietnamese and most of the people here do not know English, we have a new admiration for the steadfast work ethic and hospitality that this city has shown to us. Each day we marvel at the way the people here come together. They depend on one another for work, to eat and even to get out of a traffic jam. I cant imagine what would happen in Canada if we abolished the road rules and everyone was free to roam the roads as they pleased, but i do know there would be a heck of a lot more dings and collisions and that says something for the Vietnamese people.

 

Xo Tegs