Traffic in Hanoi

The horrendous traffic at the Hanoi Old Quarter is something that newly arrived travellers have to get used to. There are 2.5 millions motorbikes in Hanoi (pop: 5 million) and the bikes were parked along the pedestrian lanes in front of shops, in the shops as well as in the alleys.

The traffic can come from all directions. And the honking is the norm in order to 'warn' the others. Some riders just cant be bothered to sound the honk when necessary, but do that all the waywhile driving. Some even talked on their mobiles with helmet on, while driving.

The speed is so well planned that when the traffic comes in 4 directions (maybe more than 4) at the crossroads, no one needs to stop at all. (movie clip 2)

Areas near schools are less congested with motorbikes but bicycles, as students are not allowed to own motorbikes till 18 years of age.

The good thing is, despite of the traffic no accident occurred while we were there.

The videos explain everything.