Legendary Hoi An, Viet Nam

We joined up with our friends Tim and Katie (both of whom we met in South Korea) in the UNESCO Heritage town of Hoi An.  The very next morning, Noel arrived.  We opted to wander the streets of the town to take in the architecture and scenery.  It is truly a beautiful town, well deserving of its UNESCO listing. 

Cool house in Old Town.

We entered houses that were hundreds of years old, and still standing after being flooded every year.  We were shown the trap doors on the second floor of these houses, where the furniture would be hoisted through when the waters rise.  We drank reptile infused medicine and were then invited to sit down to enjoy tea in the garden area.  We were shown the flood levels of the past years, and they all rose over our heads.  We stood in wonder at the houses before us, realizing their cultural value and were astonished at the way they stood up against the years of abuse from the river.  We enjoyed $1 mojitos along the riverfront at night and then shared a bottle of local wine on the balcony of our hotel. 

Feeding the dragon from the 2nd floor of a restaurant. 

The following day was Children’s Day, which also coincided with Legendary Night (which happens on the full moon).  Gangs of children dress up as dragons and go around the storefronts collecting money.  Feeding the dragon is considered good luck.  After an individual or business feeds the dragon, the dragon tamer then beckons the dragon to enter the establishment and dance as a way of blessing.  Many sticks of incense are lit, and the drums and dancing are heard and seen up and down every street.  

No electricity from 6-9pm.

From 6pm to 9pm, all electricity is turned off and only candles and lanterns light the way.  This makes the city even more beautiful and the reflections in the river are remarkable.  The streets were full of people, locals and foreigners alike, out to take part in street games, boat rides, and creating lanterns for wishes.  It was beautiful and exciting at the same time.

Hoi An is famous for its tailors, so Brad and Tim shopped around and eventually found the right tailor.  Tim had two suits made, and Brad had his wedding suit made.  They looked extremely handsome in their new digs.  I eventually caved and had a summer cotton dress made for myself (it’s pretty difficult to say no to tailor-made clothes!).

Madness on the streets for Legendary Night

We spent our final day riding bicycles around the city and eventually made it out to the beach, though just in time for sunset.  Hoi An was an amazing place full of friendly people, beautiful architecture, and delicious food.

You can see more photos of Hoi An here.

-Renee