day 78 - A day in Hoi An

Friday, 10 January 2014

Today we explored the World Heritage listed town of Hoi An. Hoi An was a busy trading town during the 16th and 17th centuries and, as a result of the many foreign merchant ships that came here, there are many Chinese, Japanese, Dutch and Indian influences to be seen. Many of the significant buildings and monuments from that period have survived and entering the Old Town is like being transported back in time. Tourists are well catered for here with hotels, cafes and restaurants everywhere. For $6 you can purchase a ticket that gives you entry into five different historical sites around the Old Town.

(Tan Ky House, a privately owned home that is open to the public. 

It has been in the same family for seven generations)

(Mother of Pearl detail)

(The inner courtyard of the house)

(An old bridge leading to the old Japanese quarter)

(One of two monkeys guarding one end of the bridge)

While many tourists opt to explore the city by bike, we were happy to have a day off the saddles and wandered on foot through the colourful lanes. While having lunch in the market, we met a very friendly Irish couple from Sandymount, a town near where Nicky grew up. They are here for a few weeks and had some recommendations for us for Ho Chi Minh City which we were grateful for.

(A Chinese temple in the Old Town)

We spent the afternoon reading and relaxing in a colourful little cafe before heading out to Morning Glory Restaurant for dinner. Morning Glory is a popular place serving traditional Vietnamese street food, amongst other things. We had a great meal but we certainly find the quality of the food in most places, whether it be at a popular tourist destination or at a small food stall in a remote town, to be wonderfully tasty. 

(The Japanese bridge at dusk)

(Colourful paper lanterns for sale at the night market)

We're back on the road tomorrow, heading south towards Son Tinh. Looking forward to seeing more of the coast as we go. Off to bed now. Bye for now!