Old Quarter

We spent this morning in class having our first critique of the trip.  This group has been on several of these trips so the quality of photos being turned in is quite high.  However, this doesn't mean we don't have things to work on.  We also understand that what one person likes may not be a style Ira cares for.  After all, it is a form of art.

This afternoon we headed to the Old Quarter right past the park to try our hand at very busy, narrow streets with lots of traffic and people.  This is not everyone's cup of tea to say the least.  The streets were lined with restaurants and shops and covers several large blocks.  We wondered around trying not to get run over by the scooters carrying customers for both shopping and food.



There's also an open air market with vendors selling all sorts of food.  It appears that shoppers have their favorite vendors and pull up on their motorbikes and often don't even dismount to buy whatever food item they need.  Late afternoon brought beautiful golden light that is prized in photography.  The warm glow on the shoppers and the vendors brought a special warmth to our photos. 







We stopped at a popular restaurant, Chop Stix, for dinner and a beer.  It felt good to be out of the madness on the street.  While darkness can bring another aspect to photos especially when the streets are lit by glowing signs and motorbike lights, we were tired and opted to head back to our hotel since we have an early morning.

Tomorrow: Floating Halong Bay

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