Looking with New Eyes

Landing in a foreign land, I was looking forward to learning about a new culture and people.
Little did I know how wonderful this country was and how it would change me.
Hanoi is a city of contrasts. There is the old section of the city with its traditions and charms where you can learn about the culture and family traditions of the country. You can also see the many changes that are taking place with the introduction of automobiles to the traffic and the western culture with the introduction of restaurants and stores.
After crossing the Red River, I could see the new part of the city where the homes are newer and differences are even more obvious. The architecture changes with the influence of the younger generation and the homes become more elaborate and different.
Ho Kiem Lake is in the center of Hanoi and is a place where the people gather every morning to exercise, jog, run or walk before going to work for the day. If only, I could be so dedicated to beginning my day with exercise.
At night the city looks different too, with the many neon lights and the traffic. They were breathtaking. Traffic was filled with many motorbikes, bicycles, taxis and automobiles. When crossing the streets, I was told to walk and not stop once I was on the street. The first time I crossed a busy street I was reminded of crossing the street in college. I was scared, but enjoyed the challenge.
Looking around Hanoi, I saw beautiful trees and flowers along with the many buildings that were side by side. The people were smiling and polite. It was refreshing to see the many changes that are ocurring in Hanoi, but I hope that many things remain the same: love of family and pride in their home, city and nation.