It may sound peculiar that one needs to learn how to cross the street. But once you step foot in Vietnam, especially in bustling cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll quickly understand why. The traffic in these major cities can be a nightmare for both locals and visitors alike. Instead of walking all the way to the zebra crossing, you will often witness people boldly crossing the street whenever they please.
For those experiencing Vietnam for the first time, the sheer volume of motorcycles on the road, coupled with cars and unfamiliar vehicles, can be quite intimidating. It may seem impossible to reach the other side of the street unscathed. But here’s the secret: crossing the chaos is not as daunting as it appears. You just have to take the leap. The magic lies in the fact that no one will ever run into you.
The relatively small size of the vehicles, unobstructed views, and the experience of local riders navigating the city mean that they take great care on the road, especially when it comes to avoiding collisions with pedestrians. The rule of thumb is not to rush to the other side. If you observe closely, you’ll notice that most Vietnamese people cross the street at a leisurely pace, allowing enough time for vehicles to adjust their course and avoid accidents.
While it is important to respect the traffic laws and set a good example for others, there’s no need to feel scared when crossing the road. Simply continue walking while glancing left and right from time to time. Additionally, you can use a simple gesture to signal to the vehicles that you are crossing by lowering your hand below shoulder level.
Remember that crossing the street in Vietnam is not just about following the rules; it’s about adapting to the local flow and rhythm. So the next time you find yourself needing to navigate the bustling streets of Vietnam, take a deep breath, trust the process, and confidently conquer the road.
To learn more about the wonders of Vietnam, visit Rừng Cúc Phương.
