Mở cửa sổ

Kultureller Hintergrund

In Vietnam, windows are often kept open during the day to allow for natural ventilation, but are strictly closed at night to prevent 'gió độc' (harmful wind) from entering and causing illness. During the 'mùa nồm' (humid spring), people actually keep windows tightly shut to prevent the extremely humid outside air from condensing on the cold floors and walls. In big cities like Hanoi, windows are often covered with 'chuồng cọp' (tiger cages) - metal bars for security, which changes the visual experience of opening a window. Ancient houses use 'cửa bức bàn' or wooden shutters that fold or prop up, making the act of 'mở cửa sổ' a more physical, mechanical process than sliding a modern glass pane.