Life on the tracks

Can one live closer to a railroad track than on Hanoi Train Street? The train zooms by and is part of daily life for those living on this street. I arrive early in the morning to observe the "life on the tracks." I walk up and down the street peeking into doorways often met with sheepish smiles or blank stares. I know I am invading their privacy, and am uncomfortable with the intrusion. However, curiosity overrides my discomfort. Certainly, the residents are accustom to the gawkers, but this does not mean they like it. My intention is to remain as respectful as possible. Yes, I request permission to take a photograph before clicking, but I doubt this is sufficient. 

The beauty shop is a family affair

Working at home for a local shop

Taking time for an early morning snack

Collecting cans for money

Chopping nuts for the market

Making deliveries

The art of the ramp for motorcycles 

A place to socialize on the tracks

A garden or a shop: each plant has a price

The intrigue of a door

An artist's home

The largest entranceway on the tracks

Peeking in from the other side of the tracks

Respecting privacy is difficult with open doors

The beauty of decaying windows and walls

Tourists leave their mark 

Tourists arriving: selfie time

Merchant leaving Hanoi Train Street and going to a local market

Since tourists are arriving, this is an opportune time to follow the above merchant to the neighborhood market. The locals are going inside and doors are shutting. Life on Hanoi Train Street is shifting from the residents to the tourists playing and taking selfies on the tracks. As for me? I head for my next stop - the local market.