The Yin and Yang of Traffic

I'm obsessed with the motorcycle traffic. I can't believe how many people can fit on one motorcycle or the types of things they are able to carry on their back, lap or head. I saw a man carrying a desk on his back, another sitting on the back of the bike carrying a sheet of glass and yet another of a family of four - all on the same bike!

Today Quynh and I returned from Hanlong Bay to Hanoi. I sat on the back of her bike for the three hour ride. My hands are still a little sore from the death grip I used to hold onto my seat. We weaved in and out of traffic, between buses and trucks, on the left and right side of the road depending on what gave the best advantage. I spent a great deal of time squeezing my eyes shut and hoping for the best. Despite my theatrics she is a pretty darn amazing driver. What is the most unbelievable part of it all is that everyone drives this way and I did not see one accident or near miss! Along with the motorcycles, there are big and small trucks, buses and bicycles, pedestrians walking and woman with two baskets balanced on their shoulders; no one yells or acts annoyed or angry but horns honking constantly - it is incredible what sort of orchestrating has to take place to keep it all in balance.

She has been an excellent tour guide. I have seen all the highlights of Hanoi including the water puppet show! All over the city there are street vendors. One that intrigued me was the women who sold small pineapples that they peeled and sliced and sell for only a dollar! What a sweet and nutritious snack!

Tomorrow morning I meet my tour group. I am excited for the cycling part to begin. I need to do something to wear off all of the wonderful meals I've had!