Heating Up

Uugggghh... this heat!

It's been summer-like conditions since March. The sun is oppressive by midday and because of this, I try to avoid going out during the day and only leave the comfort of my air conditioned room when it's absolutely necessary. I've even changed my job from teaching daytime to teaching only in the evenings.

Gotta stay out of the sun. Gotta keep cool.

Beautiful blue skies and tropical conditions are best avoided because they bring scorching sun and blistering heat. The rain is welcomed as a fresh relief and the night it the only time when it's comfortable enough to go out. The hottest summer days in Canada are the "cooler" days here in Hanoi. Not being used to such heat, I've had to choice but to accept it. There's no way out: I'm trapped in this oven they call a country.

The heat and humidity wouldn't be so bad if there was only a breeze throughout the city. Many Hanoians find coolness from the many lakes that are scattered over the city. The largest lake in Hanoi is "West Lake" (13 km in circumference). Many five-star hotels crowd the north end of West Lake, all of which have beautiful swimming pools overlooking the lake. A great getaway. Many couples stroll the paths around the lake and sit under the shade of the trees to stay comfortable.

The traffic is also obedient to the torturous sun. At every stop light, the parts of the road shaded by trees are more quickly occupied than a position at the front of the pack. Many motorists wear extra clothing to protect their skin from the sun. Women wear their husband's long-sleeve shirts not only to protect themselves from the sun, but also to keep clean from the dirty streets.

My resolution has been to deal with the heat as best I can. That includes air conditioners, shade, fans (electric and handheld), cold drinks, shorts, sandals and multiple showers. I also ride on motorbikes instead of cabs just to get a cooler breeze. I guess it's not too serious; summer will be over in another four months. At that time the temperature will drop back down to 20 degrees...uugghh.