To market, to market…….

I had heard about the legendary wet markets of Ho Chi Minh City (there are several). So, having spent several days at one end of the food chain, I was keen to see the other end. I had a hunch that I would need an early start to catch the energy and the vibe, so I was on the back of a Vespa at 5:30 in the morning to get a 6am start

Welcome to Tan Dinh Market. I had no idea what to expect, but the stately facade gave no hint hint to the organised chaos inside.

What I thought would be a refuge, turned out to be a thoroughfare. Clearly drive-by shopping is also an indoor sport. After dodging the oncoming traffic, I made my way to the very back where the food that matters was on display and being prepared.

Now remember this is at around 6:30am and the market was pumping. The fish was so fresh that some were being kept alive in small tubs hydrated with sea water. And for all this, not a single fly did I see. But the traffic kept me on my toes as they were coming from both directions.

Well, what a way to spend a couple of hours. Tick!! Next time we visit Landmark 81 and the Aladdin’s cave of dining.