By Lê Hương

The Hồng (Red) River winds through Hà Nội, providing a picturesque setting for the city and serving as a vital waterway for trade. It also offers a refreshing retreat for many, whether in the heat of summer or the chill of winter.

The river, named for the red silt that colours its waters, remains a popular swimming spot despite its unusual hue.

Many people who swim here describe the experience as uniquely relaxing.

Đặng Bảo Giang Minh, 14, says, “Swimming here helps me feel relaxed and stronger.”

Nguyễn Hải Đăng, 11, admits that although he initially found the river cold, he now finds it refreshing.

“I’ve been swimming here for about two months,” he says. “I learned to swim in a pool, but now I practise here to prepare for a school swimming contest. I was initially scared of the darkness underwater, but I’ve grown accustomed to it.”

For Tạ Thị Nhinh, swimming in the river has been a confidence booster. “I was scared at first because I couldn’t see the riverbed, but I’ve overcome that fear and now enjoy the natural, spacious environment,” she says.

Lê Hải Phú, a 55-year-old engineer, finds the river a welcome escape from the city’s congestion.

“It’s so refreshing here,” he says. “The river is vast, and no pool can compare. The air is fresher, and the currents provide exciting experience. The water is cool in summer and warm in winter. After a stressful day, swimming here helps me feel like I’m washing away both literal and metaphorical dust. The views of the Long Biên and Nhat Tan bridges are beautiful.”

Phú, who has relocated several times, chose to live in Long Biên District partly due to the proximity of the river.

Similarly, Võ Văn Hùng, a middle-aged office worker, values the connection with nature that the river offers. “The river’s currents present a challenge unlike the crowded, chlorinated pools,” he says.

Swimming in the river requires bravery due to its ever-changing currents. Nguyễn Ngọc Khánh, another office worker, finds the river indispensable for his wellbeing.

“Swimming here is a source of happiness and relaxation. It strengthens me and relieves stress. This routine is like a breath of fresh air in my life,” he says.

Safety is crucial, especially for younger or less experienced swimmers. Makeshift buoys crafted from plastic containers help ensure safety.

Nhinh shares her experience: “Initially, I only watched from the bank while my husband swam. I eventually learned to swim myself. River currents vary daily, so carrying a lifebuoy is essential for safety.”

The passion for river swimming has led to the formation of the Exploration Swimming Club, which now boasts over 8,000 members and organises numerous swimming competitions.

“Our goal is to improve health and explore personal limits. Many members have achieved feats they couldn’t before, like swimming long distances in open water, and they’re much more confident,” Nguyễn Ngọc Khánh, the club president, says.

Khánh notes that overcoming psychological fears is often the biggest challenge in open water swimming.

“Once you conquer that fear, you can truly enjoy wild swimming,” he adds.

As Hà Nội’s temperatures rise, a dip in the Hồng River might be the perfect way to cool off.  VNS