Crossing The Street in Vietnam

It may seem unusual that learning to cross the street is a skill in itself. Once you arrive in Vietnam, particularly in bustling cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you'll quickly understand why. The traffic in these major urban areas can be overwhelming, even for locals. You'll likely notice pedestrians crossing the street wherever they choose, rather than walking the extra distance to a designated crosswalk.
Photo: kinhtedothi.com 

For first-time visitors to Vietnam, the sheer number of motorbikes, coupled with cars and various other vehicles, may be daunting. You may feel hesitant to navigate from one side of the street to the other. However, crossing through the traffic is more manageable than it appears. The key is to take the leap and do it. Remarkably, you will likely find that vehicles tend to avoid you.

The relatively small size of the vehicles, combined with the clear sightlines and the riders' extensive experience maneuvering through the city, means that they are generally cautious on the roads. Observing the flow of traffic, you'll notice that most Vietnamese pedestrians cross the street at a slow and steady pace, allowing adequate time for moving vehicles to change course and avoid potential collisions.

While it is advisable to adhere to traffic laws and set a positive example for others, you shouldn't feel intimidated about crossing the street. Keep a steady pace while occasionally looking to your left and right. Additionally, raising your hand below shoulder height can serve as an effective signal to drivers that you intend to cross.