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Although the Christmas countdown has begun, Hang Ma Street in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem District is already alive with festive cheer, illuminated by a dazzling array of holiday decorations. The street has been transformed into a magical wonderland, with ornaments and sparkling lights adorning every corner. From shimmering tinsel to life-size Santas, the street is a treasure trove of holiday delights, attracting eager shoppers from near and far. The vibrant decorations are embraced by locals and tourists alike, regardless of their religious background, reflecting the growing excitement for the festive season. Hang Ma Street shops have been decking their storefronts with colorful Christmas decorations and festive ornaments since early November, signaling the start of the holiday season. What was once a typical street has now burst into a kaleidoscope of colors and energy, a stark contrast to just a few days ago. A merchant on Hang Ma Street highlights the growing trend of “green” products ...

The story of ‘Morgue Sticky Rice’ is an intriguing one, and I’m excited to share it with you. In conversation with the *Tuoi Tre* (Youth) newspaper, Luu Bao Minh, the son of the founder of this unique establishment, revealed that the name originated from its loyal customers. Minh’s parents used to sell sticky rice from a cart at the intersection of Nguyen Tri Phuong and Tran Phu Streets. Over time, they moved to their current location on Tran Phu Street, which happens to be surrounded by funeral homes, hospitals, and vendors associated with funeral rituals. The famous ‘Xôi Mặn’ (Savory Sticky Rice) shop, with its unique nickname, has become a beloved part of the local culture. Photo: Ho Lam / Tuoi Tre The sticky rice shop has been a fixture on this street for almost half a century, and its proximity to funeral homes earned it the nickname ‘Morgue Sticky Rice.’ Minh shared that the name stuck, and now everyone knows their shop by this intriguing moniker. As night falls, the...