On one lazy weekend afternoon in late November, Little Gemma, Monica and I set out to Lenin Park, a small green oasis located near the centre of Hanoi. The park is a favourite among young families because it is equipped with tons of play equipment for young children.
On most weekends, the park hosts trade fairs and shows, with loudspeakers and music blaring. On that particular weekend, Little Gemma, Monica and I happened to stumble upon the "Coffee Fair", which featured an extravaganza of booths preaching the values of coffee with salesgirls kitted out in very odd outfits. Little did they know that they were already preaching to the converted!
Little Gemma, Monica and I hopped on a children's train that circles the park for a fee of 30 cents. Waiting for the train to leave the gate, we were besieged by ladies peddling their wares: helium balloons in the shape of cartoon characters, stuffed animals and locally made sweets. It felt like we were in a zoo, except no animals in sight.
With a jolt, the train left its "terminal" and we were off. The train ride was a mere 15 minutes with "scheduled stops" along the route. Lenin Park is surrounded by a network of lakes that you can paddle across in a swan boat. It also has a number of walking paths and shaded seating areas, with mature trees and gardens. Walking through its main gates from the busy city, it is a welcome respite from city life. A relaxing afternoon!
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