Vietnam- FIRST DAY IN HANOI

Wow. Since the moment we landed in Vietnam, I could tell there was something very different about this place, and I was right. If you think New York City is busy and loud, come to Hanoi. There are actually no traffic laws, and the motorbikes have a mind of their own when it comes to direction, speed and whether or not they will stop for you or not. The little markets are so busy, making Pho, a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup, and trying to sell goods of all kinds. Fluorescent signs light up the windows of the stores and car horns beep non-stop. I can't wait to get more time to explore the city and eat more food! As busy and loud as it is, Hanoi has a certain charm about it, and so does its people.

Everyone was pretty tired after about 24 hours of non-stop travelling, and so although today was fun, it was exhausting. The speed of the city is very fast paced, and I think that tired us out even more. I had Chicken Pho and coconut water from for lunch, and then the choir visited a local elementary school to rehearse some of our songs. Everyone is very hospitable and accepting here. I see many foreigners on the streets, and other than a few stares, no one gives them any trouble as far as I can tell. It is not hard to communicate with many of the local people, as pointing and hand gestures usually suffice. Hanoi seems to be a very easy city to get around in, and although the streets are a bit dangerous, once you eventually master the art of crossing them, Hanoi has proven itself to be a very pleasant place.

After a while, we finally arrived at the building that organized all of our homestays for us, and my friend Sam and I met our Host family. They are so kind and hospitable, and they made us an amazing dinner of soup, noodles, chicken and salad. I don't actually know the names of all the dishes, but they were delicious. The couple has two daughters, 6 and 9 years old, and they are absolutely adorable. They live on the 25th floor of a huge luxury apartment building in Western Hanoi, one with a rooftop pool and cafe. Their apartment is quaint but very stylish, and fully equipt with two bathrooms and a breathtaking view of the city. I am so excited to be living here for the next week, and can't wait to get to know my family better.

-ECM