Beggars, trash, gambling, hawking in fest month
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As in previous holiday seasons, trash littering, beggars and gambling remain highlights during this month’s festive time.
As this is the first lunar month, Vietnam in general and the northern region in particular is packed with traditional festivals. More often than not, they leave behind a bad impression.
First, unemployed people wanting an easy job intentionally dressed up in sleazy clothes, crawled along streets in a pitiable state, cried and implored passers-by for alms.
Of course, there are authentic beggars too.
Then, littering is another problem.
Thousands of visitors flock to Hoi Lim festival in the northern province of Bac Ninh. The event is traditionally held on the 13th day of the first month on lunar calendar
A woman and a baby crawling along streets and holding a basket to beg for money from pilgrims
A pilgrim gives the beggar small changes
Father and child
Another beggar lies on the ground with a basket in front. It seems she is about to die but wait…
She quickly stands up and walks away quickly when patrol officers approach
A young guy (L) enticing a visitor to play chess for money
Goods displayed along streets for sales. In the back is a red sign that says “No hawking”
Need I say more?
