Hanoi sees a surge in the trend of cycling around West Lake.

It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that West Lake is one of the most beloved spots in Hanoi among locals. People flock to West Lake for the romantic sunsets, the enchanting beauty of the cassia flowers that turn the lake yellow, or for incredibly fun activities like paddleboarding and taking photos at popular spots. Recently, a new trend has emerged around West Lake that many people enjoy and participate in: cycling around the lake.

In the current Covid-19 pandemic situation, a trend has emerged as a way for Hanoi residents to "travel locally," with activities that are both environmentally friendly and improve health.

West Lake boasts breathtaking scenery.

With a shoreline stretching over 17km, West Lake is an ideal route for cycling. Whether at sunrise or sunset, West Lake possesses a magical charm. Cycling around the lake, enjoying the cool breeze, and observing the slow pace of life offers a feeling of relaxation and tranquility.

Cycling around the lake became a huge trend during the pandemic.

Cycling around West Lake isn't a recent phenomenon; many people have been coming to experience it for a while now, even considering it a part of their daily routine.

However, in the current pandemic situation, many travel plans have been disrupted, leading people to turn to this activity as a way to relieve their wanderlust and improve their health.

Not only does it attract residents living around West Lake, but many people from other districts, especially young people, also enjoy cycling here. Typically, people will arrive by motorbike, park it at various locations around the lake, and then rent bicycles and accessories. There are quite a few bicycle rental shops along the lake, specifically in the Trích Sài and Nguyễn Đình Thi areas.

For just a small amount of money, around 40,000-50,000 VND/3 hours, you can comfortably experience sightseeing around the "green lung of the capital".

According to Mr. Quan, a bicycle rental shop owner near West Lake, his shop is open from 5 am to midnight, with up to 300 customers renting bikes on peak days. "The shop has 50 bikes, so customers often have to line up early. Every three hours, a new customer arrives, and the staff checks the bike and hands it over to the next customer immediately," he shared.

Hanoi is entering summer, but around 5 PM, the roads around West Lake start to cool and feel breezy. This is also the ideal time for people to start cycling, especially on weekends.

It's not difficult to spot bicycles of all colors and sizes leisurely cruising along the roads around the lake. The roads aren't very wide, but they're enough to satisfy cycling enthusiasts. Slowly savoring the pleasant sensations in the early mornings, as the sun rises, or at sunset, as the sky begins to turn red.

However, given the current complex situation with the pandemic, if you participate in outdoor activities in general, or cycling along West Lake in particular, please pay attention to ensuring safety and preventing the spread of the disease as recommended by the Ministry of Health, such as wearing masks, sanitizing your hands, and avoiding crowded places.

Huyen Chau