Tonight I was taking a xe om (motorbike taxi) to meet my friend for dinner. I like to take xe oms instead of driving myself because I can look around and check out all the action. People watching in Vietnam is always excellent since so much life in Saigon happens on the street. It's also better than a taxi because I have a 360 degree view.
I was at a stoplight when I hear a friendly "hello!" about 50 cm to my right. I look over and perched comfortably on a motorbike is a young family -- dad, mom and a little girl not a day over 3 years old. The dad said "hello" again and smiled. The girl looked at the foreigner shyly, somewhat intrigued but unsure what to do. "Chào cháu!" ("Hello, youngster!") I said, but still she just looked at me and blinked. We all had a good laugh. I think I was part of an impromptu English lesson. That actually happens a lot.
There are so many charmers here in Vietnam. Especially the kids.
In other news, it looks like Vietnam Idol has hit the scene. You thought I was kidding in my post last month, eh? Well check it out in all its glory here. There is no doubt the show will be a huge hit in this karaoke-crazed land.