I’ve heard countless times that the traffic in Ho Chi Minh city is really crazy. Motorists just don’t seem to care about the traffic lights and road laws. When I am finally here, is not as bad as it seems. On the first day, I just tailgate the locals when crossing the road. On day two, I was pretty determined to do it by myself. I was successful on the first try and I felt really good. I suddenly had the urge to do it again. The feeling I felt was like doing a bungee jump. Do not think too much and just take the leap of faith and let it all go.
Early morning traffic in Ho Chi Minh City, near Ben Thanh market
I have to admit it wasn’t that dangerous at all. I would guess it is easier if you do sports, dancing and play certain musical instruments all the time. It just requires timing and coordination. So on my second attempt; I purposely waited for heavier traffic passing my way before I crossed the road. I timed myself, imagined that I am doing ballroom dancing ( not that I’ve done ballroom dancing before but watching Dancing With The Stars now seems to be quite rewarding ) and I made sure to look at the motorbike riders. This is to make sure that they are looking at you too. At times you are required to stop and the motorbikes will swerve past you. Is like playing the video game Frogger and you are the frog this time around, in real life.
Traffic is building up but I am waiting for heavier traffic before I cross the road
This flow of traffic is perfect for beginners. TIPS : Take a deep breath, clench your butt and walk at a timely speed. Important : NEVER RUN
So if you are going to Ho Chi Minh for your holidays, this is one activity that I highly recommend you to do. Is FREE and has the elements of courage building, extreme sports and even a little bit of spiritual. I feel like Superman, Moses or even Jesus Christ when I crossed the street of Ho Chi Minh. Below are some really cool videos that I found from YouTube. See the videos and you will understand what I mean.
Steve in Japan
March 19, 2012 at 7:15 am
Whoa! Looks like you really have to time your crossing or wait until it’s not rush hour.
Alex
March 19, 2012 at 8:30 am
Yeah…but I can assure you it’s really fun!
Ken
April 24, 2012 at 6:24 pm
You’re so brave! Thanks for sharing the videos 🙂 with so much fun!
tina
May 2, 2012 at 1:04 am
Amazing! thanks for posting this. Your face at end looks real funny
meineland
March 18, 2013 at 7:27 pm
WOW! I love your blog 🙂 Im going to vietnam next week, but my trip will start from tommorow from penang-bangkok-viet-sing.
Could you give me 2 or 3 things that i have to do while in Ho Chi Minh?
Thanks 🙂
Alex
March 20, 2013 at 7:44 am
I would recommend you to stay near district 1, Pham Ngu Lao area. Go try all the food HCM has to offer. Go buy some Trung Nguyen coffee.