Traffic standstill

Was caught in the middle of a traffic standstill recently. Massive traffic jams are daily affairs in almost every part of HCMC where there are schools, learning centres, office buildings, theatres etc. In a city where the narrow streets were only designed for motorbikes but were never improved to cater to the current increasing number of cars, it is a nightmare to travel during peak hours.

A typical class dismissal like this literally brings traffic to a standstill with throngs of anxious parents (looking out for their child walking out of the building) on their motorbikes, scattering from the entrance of the building, to the middle of the road, oblivious to any on-coming traffic.

Mid Autumn Festival

"Thinking of You"

When will the moon be clear and bright? With a cup of wine in my hand, I ask the blue sky.

I don't know what season it would be, in the heavens on this night.

I'd like to ride the wind to fly home, yet I fear the crystal and jade mansions are much too high and cold for me.

Dancing with my moon-lit shadow, it does not seem like the human world.

The moon rounds the red mansion, stoops to silk-pad doors, shines upon the sleepless. Bearing no grudge, why does the moon tend to be full when people are apart?

People may have sorrow or joy, be near or far apart.

The moon may be dim or bright, wax or wane, this has been going on since the beginning of time.

May we all be blessed with longevity.

Though far apart, we are still able to share the beauty of the moon together.

- Poem written during the night of the Mid-Autumn Festival in year 1076, by Su Tung Po

Moon cakes in Vietnam

Sighting of another familiar name

MOF - Ministry of Food was established in Singapore a few years ago, well known for its sweets & coffee. Its green tea ice cream and ice blended coffee are some of their popular items.

I've tried it once in Singapore (Bugis Junction branch) and was surprised to see it in HCMC too! It is located along the main road of Le Loi Boulevard, opposite the Saigon Centre but unfortunately, not very visible despite its huge signage.

Its menu is alot smaller than the one I saw in Singapore and its Don Buri is probably the most decent item for a simple meal. Tried the signature green tea ice cream in red bean paste with glutinous balls - it's as good as the one I have tasted in Singapore.