Walking to work instead of riding motorbike: A Vietnamese worker’s daily routine

He once relied on motorbikes or buses, often needing to change routes to reach the office.

But since moving to his current company, he has let his motorbike 'rest long-term' and embraced walking.

Each morning, he packs essentials into a backpack, puts on his shoes, and strolls along tree-lined sidewalks.

The walk provides more than transportation. It allows him to observe city life, enjoy the morning air, and occasionally stop for coffee.

Arriving early at the office, he has time to freshen up and read the news before starting work.

He said the routine improves his health, clears his mind, and enhances productivity.

Late in the afternoon, he follows the same routine by walking home.

He typically leaves the office around 6:00 pm, not because the company requires it, but because he prefers returning during the cooler hours of the day. This timing also allows him to enjoy the city lights.

On rainy days, he carries an umbrella, while extreme weather prompts him to take the bus.

Conveniently, there is a bus stop located just below the apartment building where he lives, and another one near his office, so he does not need to transfer buses.

This route has been upgraded to electric buses, which are smaller, smoother, and produce less odor, making them a suitable alternative on days with harsh weather conditions or when he feels too tired to walk.

Along with work-related items, his backpack always contains essentials such as a hat, an umbrella, flip-flops, and sometimes even spare clothes.

On days with heavy rain, he can wear lighter clothing and sandals from home, then change into work attire and shoes once he arrives at the office.

Keeping spare clothes also helps in case of unexpected incidents, such as getting splashed by dirty water, so he does not have to return home to change.

This habit has made him more careful, encouraging him to double-check everything before leaving home and stay prepared for unexpected situations.

Some friends joke that he packs 'like going on a trip' just to walk to work.

The walking habit extends to travel and family life.

He uses maps to plan routes combining walking and public transport, ensuring punctuality.

His family often chooses walking, buses, or metro for weekend trips downtown, and his child also walks to school.

Recently, he has noticed that some of his younger colleagues who live near the office have begun walking or cycling to work.

He believes that short distances do not always require a motorbike.

Walking saves money, improves health, and reduces traffic congestion.

It is a simple change, but a meaningful one.