The Hustle and Bustle of Saigon’s Trackside Living
Along the 20-kilometer-long track, a unique community has formed with residences lining both sides of the street. These small, decades-old houses are a testament to the simple yet vibrant lifestyle of their occupants. The peacefulness of this community is occasionally interrupted by the blaring train horns in the midnight hour, jolting residents from their slumber. However, the overall atmosphere remains one of serenity, a stark contrast to the bustling city life just beyond. Locals boast of the village’s rarity of traffic jams and blaring vehicle horns, a welcome respite from the typical city noise. This tight-knit community offers all the conveniences of modern life, with barbershops, eateries, tailor shops, and even motorcycle repair stores dotting the narrow streets. The residents take pride in their cozy and convenient neighborhood. Phan Thi Kim Lan, a 75-year-old long-time resident, speaks fondly of the strong sense of community. She shares that the neighbors have lived along...