Buzz
In Thai Binh city, on weekends, with drizzling rain turning chilly, life at Chợ Bo slows down compared to regular days. Time has left its mark on every pillar and wall, creating a unique sense of antiquity. Yet, it inadvertently fosters a distinct vintage charm, a serene ambiance amidst the bustling city. Despite the rain, the occasional calls of street vendors can still be heard echoing through the market alleys.
Thai Binh: Chợ Bo – The Quiet Shopping Hub Amidst the Bustling City
More than a decade after the fire incident, Chợ Bo has recovered and thrived once again. People used to flock to this two-story building, engaging in both wholesale and retail trade. Both floors were packed with stalls offering a diverse range of goods. The parking lot used to be full, and accessing the market was challenging due to the crowds. Chợ Bo was once the bustling hub of trade and commerce. However, as society progresses and competition increases, its vibrancy has gradually faded.
Though Chợ Bo is no longer filled with stalls and vendors, some have transformed into storage units. However, the variety of goods remains diverse, avoiding concentration on specific items.
During rainy weekends, the old market area becomes darker and more gloomy. The second floor, which used to have many items, now only displays merchandise.
Most vendors at Bo market remember a fire incident over a decade ago. Some lost a lot, some lost everything, some lost hope. Uncle Nguyen X shares: 'Back then, when the market caught fire, I was sitting outside so I wasn't affected. Hardly anyone goes to Bo market anymore. Since morning, I haven't sold anything. Business is slow.'
Although Bo market is gradually losing its former hustle and bustle, it inadvertently creates a sense of tranquility, a quietness, the old features attest to its ancientness, a testimony to time. The vendors here are not rushing through the bustling life outside; they are satisfied with the present, with simple joy in this place, in this Bo market area. Smiles still adorn their faces, with optimism amidst the immediate challenges of life.
By Chung Anh/News
***
Reference: Travel guide by Mytour
MytourMarch 13, 2019
