Bicycles are almost a thing of the past in Vietnam having been replaced by 3 million (or more) moterbikes that swarm the streets everyday. We heard that the price of cars is being kept artifically high to discourage people from purchasing them which in theory will keep down the congestion. Admittedly a family of 4 on a motorbike does require less road space than that same family in a car, but what about safety? A child in the U.S. is not even allowed to sit in the front seat of a car. What we see here would not only be illegal in the states it would be considered child abuse. (Note who is wearing the helmet) Perhaps this is just another example of how a wealthy country can afford safety concerns and developing countries don't yet have that luxury.
When we cross the street Janet and I breathe deep, hold hands and cross very slowly and deliberatly while the onslaught of motorbikes part around us like a raging river. It is a very zen experience. Who would have known that walking in Saigon traffic could be a new form of meditation. Breathe in, breathe out, stay centered, focused and slowly get to the other side in one piece.
Wow! No photo could possibly do justice to your street crossing experience. Thanks for the video, it was really fun (and slightly nerve-wracking). I'm glad you figured out the slow and steady approach. It can be really unnerving in crowded situations when people "try to help" by suddenly stopping to let you pass or by any sudden change. Predictable is best (the story of my boring old life).
ReplyDeleteWhere is everyone going ? Funny i ask myself the same thing here on Oahu.
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