Once we arrived in Ho Chi Minh we went to the city center and to visit Thien Hau Pagoda in Chinatown. This pagoda was ornately decorated. The air was hazy from the huge coils of burning incense. In the center was an open air area so that when praying to the gods, nothing would interfere. There was also a large step when you first walked in so that you would have to look down to see where to walk and looking down was also showing respect to the gods as you entered the Pagoda. Along the wall, purple ribbons written in Chinese characters showed the people who have many contributions in the last few weeks. At the front of the Pagoda, the imposing emperor is higher than the other figures.
Right outside the Pagoda, we got into a Cyclo which was a human propelled three wheel bike. We each had our own driver that took us on an hour ride through Chinatown in the middle of rush hour traffic!
What a FUN experience! Although we are lucky we didn't get hit! There were cars, motorbikes, bicycles, people, trucks, in all directions! Cars and motorbikes came at us head on, through the center of the road even! The sights we saw along the way, left me speechless. It was a great way to see the city and it was only $5.00! What a deal!
No comments:
Post a Comment