The people of Hanoi are resilient, patient, hard-working people. I’ve lived and traveled in many cities, and after a few days in Hanoi I realized what was missing: no beggars. Not once was I asked for a handout. I was offered a shoe shine for my strappy sandals, given a nice fanning to entice me to buy a fan on a hot day, offered rides on bikes and scooters, and given many food options, but no one held out a hand for money without offering a service or product. The streets are filled with petite women carrying heavy loads in baskets, across their shoulders, and piled on their bikes. I admire the work ethic of these industrious people. As Vietnam continues to grow in its middle-economy status, I hope the government can encourage development that enables growth opportunities for all while keeping income inequality from spreading too widely.
