Culture Shockwaves

             Stepping off the plane into the humid air—is it possible a country could be this hot? The others don’t seem to notice the heat, but it is a blanket, enveloping everything once known and transforming it into something new and different. You look out of a dingy bus window at the passing countryside, astounded at this place. The land bears few similarities to anywhere you have been previously in your life. Not even ten minutes off the plane, you start questioning the safe and sheltered life you lead back home.

The city you eventually roll into has streets that are alive with motorcycles and street vendors. On every corner, an array of trinkets and fruit are paraded before your road-weary eyes. Do you dare try the duck being roasted on the street, amidst a swarm of flies preparing to attack the succulent meat? Or will you choose the bright dragon fruit, with its pink flesh giving way to a sweet white inside? Vendors beckon you with a smile, waiting to lure you in should you show the least interest in their merchandise. 

Waves of heat radiating from the pavement cause everyone to sweat profoundly. The locals know that once the shadows fall short, it is time to rest from the scorching heat. You know nothing of the sort though, and continue to wander aimlessly through the sweltering streets, wondering why the Asian population of Hanoi suddenly evaporated.

When you finally are able to sit down and eat, you are surprised by the flavor and freshness in every course.  What is this, where a bowl of noodles and vegetables can taste like your little piece of heaven? Each drag of the chopsticks and smack of the mouth brings pleasure to the senses. Too soon, you have drained your bowl and are staring at the ceramic bottom as if trying to read the dregs of spices left behind.

You are back out on the street again, blinking in the harsh light and rubbing your full belly. Yet again, colorful scarves and miniature Buddhas swirl in and out of your vision until something catches your eye. Could they possibly be selling a petrified snake in a jar as naturally as if it were water? You dig into your bag, fingers fumbling for money you don’t quite know how to use yet. This will be good for loved ones back home you say. This will make them understand this extraordinary place a little bit more.

You wish you had your family and friends to surround you and delight in this country as you are right now. But you realize that this is your country at the moment-- not theirs, and that it is your responsibility to explore it on your own. At the tips of your fingers, the whole of Hanoi is waiting for you. In the palm of your hand is the ability to make a life, a home here—or not. It is your choice.