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Hanoi’s ‘concert’ in the eyes of guests

Hanoi, a city full of life, color, with a strong pulse can make you ecstatic in life experiences.

Eileen Wingaard Sjoqvist, a Norwegian, visited Vietnam in 2019. The female tourist captures people’s everyday moments through a set of photos and shares her feelings about Hanoi, on the occasion of the new year.

Hanoi’s ‘concert’ in the eyes of guests
Eileen visited Chu Dong Tu temple in Hung Yen. Photo: Phong Vinh

It’s been three years, but looking at my photos, seeing the colors, the vibrant atmosphere, the smiles… I seem to relive the thrill of being in the middle of a peaceful place filled with soul. . I can relive every moment with intact emotion, listening to the beat of Hanoi. Happiness fills my eyes when I see all the details of the city. Colors, sounds and lines awaken all the senses.

From morning to night, the city is constantly transforming. I can hear the lively sounds of the street, from cars, motorbikes, laughter, to music… I love the noises, the beeping sirens… All the sounds of Ha The interior is like an orchestra playing in the ear all day. And suddenly, just stepping foot into a temple, a sense of peace immediately fills your soul – contrasting with the bustling atmosphere of the street.

When it comes to roads, I realize that everyone respects each other when participating in traffic. Even in heavy traffic, you will always find a way to cross the street. Everyone had faith in each other, all going their separate ways while carefully watching the traffic around them.

I don’t know how many times I wish I could go back to Hanoi. That’s where I walk the streets, zigzag between motorbikes, drink a glass of egg beer in a small green shop, sit on the sidewalk eating a bowl of pho… I’ll see you again Children playing, people dancing, street food stalls fragrant… All those memories are like a dream I want to repeat over and over, to discover these things over and over again.

The visit to Hanoi reminded Eileen of the time she lived in Mexico. The similarity between the two cities is the friendly smiles of the people. Photo: Eileen Wingaard Sjoqvist

Hanoians live together and share life with each other. You can see that they really enjoy walking, eating, chatting, dancing, laughing, and taking care of each other. We live in a rushed world where people often forget that.

I call Hanoi home because it feels as dear as my home. The important thing is to open your heart and mind, to better understand the differences of cultures, traditions, lifestyles… I am grateful for the experiences in this city where there will always be a place. a special place in my heart.

As for Vietnam, my one word for this country is vibrant. Vietnam has changed my life in many ways. The trip that year was an unforgettable experience that I still recall countless times. I found love in this country, its source lies there. Vietnam is about to fully reopen to international visitors, and I’m ready to board the plane back to this vibrant land.













Eileen Wingaard Sjoqvist

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