In recent months I have been slowly discovering an area near my home that appears to be slightly disconnected from the rest of the inner districts around Ho Chi Minh City. I find myself as the only expat when I go walking around. It’s an island between 2 canals. I feel very conspicuous but people are friendly even if they do wonder what the hell I’m doing there in district 8.

I’m coming here when I need to clear my head and get back to real photography. Initially I came here to lead a photo walk late in 2020. What struck me was that the area seemed to be stuck in a time warp.

There is evidence that the area was once an important part of river trade and it sits opposite Cho Lon on the canal that leads to the Mekong Delta. Cho Lon (Chinatown) was and still is a vibrant district famous for it’s Binh Tay market, and classical Chinese architecture dating back to 1778.

District 8 has well preserved examples of French Colonial architecture, a very traditional central market and many interesting street markets. Partly a low lying area, it can easily flood with heavy rain or when the canal overflows.

Once a year in the 2 weeks before the lunar new year, there is a spectacular flower market along the canal in district 8. Boats come down from the Mekong Delta to sell their flowers. It is a favorite subject for local photographers.

There are large and small bridges along the waterways and areas where traditional wooden riverboats can unload their cargo or restock.

I am taken by this place and its people and will return so watch this space! To see more of my photography and video work please go to http://www.paulgreenphotovideoart.com