04 Dec. 2011: A WALK AROUND HANOI'S LAKE #2 of 3

On the banks of the Red River, Hanoi has been a commercial centre for 1000 years. It became Vietnam's capital after WWII, with Russian persuasion. It was bombed mercilessly in what is called the "American War" until U.S. POW's were put to work rebuilding bridges and roads. It is now the capital of the reunified Vietnam. Someone said "Everybody has heard the words Vietnam but no one knows what Vietnam is." Today it pulsates with nonstop energy and small business ---- the  owner of our 10-room hotel is Anna in her mid-20's and very proud of the place. 

In the middle of Old Quarter is Hoan Kiem Lake, an easy stroll around. On this Sunday morning, the promenade was teeming with exercisers, mahjong players, canoodling couples in rare shows of public affection, and the resulting wedding party!  An historic bridge arcs like diplomacy from east to west. Giant flower sculptures compete with other public art. And we were really lucky to join a crowd glimpsing ----- what??----- either a giant tortoise that legend has it saved the city. Or to me it looked more like a seal. But neither could survive in this green algaed water with little food and oxygen. Is it put there for tourists? But how do they get it out for air and a fish??

There's many reminders that this is a favourite destination for Australians, such as flipflop shops and the famed Kangaroo Cafe where you can get a burger with a slab of beetroot. The overhead wiring looks like a splicer gone crazy (where do you start, Jim??). And fresh flowers and baguettes on the street remind that this was also occupied by the French. Deux croissants, s'il vous plait!