truc bach lake

we sat by the sidewalk. there were mats and tables where we had our drinks and food. it was nighttime and busy. the place was really a night spot and a local favorite. people, bikes and cars passed us by. we were celebrating the birthday of one of my students.

my other student with a motorbike picked me up and so we went. it was a longer ride compared to my work route. we went further north of hanoi - truc bach lake which is beside west lake (the largest lake in hanoi).

we were the last to arrive. there were dry-roasted peanuts on the small table. we sat assuming lotus position. i felt my belly getting tight.

we had hotpot with vegetables, clams, duck fetus, pineapple, taro, shrimp, meat strips, tofu wraps, aside from the fresh spring rolls. there was whisky that went with the food as well.

i still could not believe that i am now in vietnam.