Streets of Hanoi.....

               First day on the streets of Hanoi completed. Very hot and humid with no let-up in the evening. The Old Quarter where tourist activity is concentrated, is the very centre of Hanoi and is composed of a maze of very narrow streets that are clogged with motor cycles and small delivery trucks of the pedicab and motorized varieties. Vietnam seems to be in the early stages of an economic explosion with most people seemingly enjoying access  to consu

mer goods previously unobtainable. Wires, internet, utility and whatever, are draped in a convoluted mass from poles at the roadside. There is basic sanitation (better than in India) but the whole environment in the central area awaits massive organization. I have not seen very much in the way of public transportation, with informal suppliers meeting demand.
                         Very clear to any visitor is just how friendly the locals are to tourists. Of course, there is frequently an ulterior motive by many just to practice their English----whatever, it is people interacting in a very human manner that can only foster understanding. As yet, I have not sensed any tourist safety concerns and the locals seems to be law abiding with a police presence on many street corners.
                        Walked a couple kilometres to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum -------paid my admission and promptly informed that the place was closing shortly (Sunday hours). Had to take the bums rush through the various rooms---I had been expecting to see Uncle Ho in residence and embalmed--instead had to make do with a large statue that seems popular with newlyweds as a photo back drop.
                       The walk back to the city core, led me  past a small lake in the centre of which, is embedded

Remains of a B52 bomber in central Hanoi.

 a large chunk of an American B52 bomber that was shot out of the sky in 1972. Patriotic plaques around the lake explain the significance of the wreckage as part of the struggle for national unity.
                      Seems that one has to be careful with the camera especially near military buildings, police stations etc., otherwise, on the street, locals seem at ease with the camera pointed in their direction.
                      The city is abundant with food---with eating spots running into the thousands. Quality seems good with the flavour range manageable even for the gastronomically less adventurous.