Cao Lanh, Vietnam--Dr. Janet Volpe, Interplast volunteer pediatrician
Cao Lanh is a bustling city in southern Vietnam with a population of 150,000. It was carved from the jungles and swamps of the Mekong Delta region. The surrounding waters make fresh seafood readily available, and the hot and humid climate is perfect for cultivating many tropical fruits and produce. Many of our patients reside in the surrounding rural farming communities, located within a three-hour drive of the city. On weekends, a lively farmer's market takes place just a few blocks from our hotel, selling everything from fish to fresh cut flowers, ripe fruits and bright green veggies. This photo was taken at about 6:30 am on a Saturday morning, at the peak of the market; many of the sellers drove into the city hours earlier to prepare their goods for sale.