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Good Morning Hanoi!

FREEDOM! Finally the train ride was over and back to Hanoi we were after 4 days of fun in Halong and Sapa.
As I walked out of the station, an idea struck me - to capture as much of Hanoi as possible in the early morning. Was inspired by this segment in The Straits Times whereby shots of what goes on in people's lives just before 8am were taken. So it was just me and my most humble Canon Ixus during the almost 1hr walk back to Sinh Cafe from Hanoi Train Station.

At 6am:

Vietnam Press Holdings (VPH) in action.

Laying out the greens for the day. By the way, check out the seller's coat!

How happening for a stall vendor ay?

Void of the noisy and chaotic traffic - a trademark of Hanoi's streets.

Appreciated the absence of the jarring honking of motorbikes and other vehicles.


At 6.15am


Working out when the air is much cleaner and fresher

Brekkie on its way.


Balancing act - makeshift stall somewhere I suppose.

With what she was carrying, she actually walked ahead of us! Pro.


At 6.35am


Patiently waiting for her customers. So meanwhile, relac 1 corner!

One of the many vegetable sellers I've met as I walked along the streets. I just love the way they carried their goods and confidently strutting across the road. A pity I didn't a chance to try carrying what they carry. It will be a cool experience I suppose.


At 6.45am

A bunch of backpackers still trying to find their bearings!

"Where are we man????" ; "Are we lost??"


At 7am-ish

We finally arrived at Sinh Cafe. Dumped our bags in 1 corner and went out in search for breakfast.


Patronized this roadside stall that sold 'Pate' - Viet's subway sandwich. Jeff's recommendation. I must admit for once it was a good call.

With so many eyes on her, she had no choice but to give us good stuff! Haha..look at how intense the guys are looking at the lady. No room for any mistakes boy :)

Oh and before I had my sub, I actually satisfied another craving of mine - DONUTS! Bought 1 stick and it was quite nice. Rather different from Singapore's donuts - softer and less sweet.

By 7.30am, the whole town was already bustling with activity. Stalls were all in full operation and the honking began. People were once again going about their daily routine. It will be non-stop action till nightfall and the cycle starts all over again.

I always enjoyed the walks along the streets as I get to see so much that's happening around me. I take delight in just being able to soak into the atmosphere of the place and get first hand experience of the kind of lifestyle the people had.

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