Return to Hoi An

After long flights via Paris, Saigon and Danang we eventually arrive in Hoi An. 

Early morning - Flying over Thailand

Passing through Saigon Airport - The Thoughts of Chairman Green

We’ve been here a couple of times before but the place has changed a lot since our last visit in 2010. New hotels line the beach along the road between Danang and Hoi An and Hoi An is busier than ever.

Hoi An market - as busy as ever

The Japanese Covered Bridge - imagine, a bridge with a roof

Chrysanthemums are very popular at the moment

and the veg ladies are well turned out

Hoi An is a world heritage site so little can be done within the old town but new bars and restaurants are everywhere and competition for patrons is fierce. The biggest shock for us is the numbers of Korean tourists who can be seen daily in the pedal rickshaws being taken round and around the town.

Hundreds of cycle rickshaws transport sombre Koreans

After a couple of warm days the weather changes with lots of rain from the tail end of the cyclone which has been passing across Asia. Luckily it does not affect the temperatures and as John always says it does not rain in bars.

Fishing on the Hoan River

Not long after this the river burst its banks and this footpath disappeared under the water

You have to feel sorry for the Vietnamese newly weds who are having their photos taken on the river or around and about the town.  They’re dressed up to the nines and are accompanied by an entourage of photographers, lighting and makeup.

The happy couple on the river

and in the town

Hoi An is famous for the fantastic silk lanterns and umbrellas but many local people visit to make a wish and float a lighted candle along the river Hoan. The floating candles are sparse at the moment as last night the river burst its bank.

and at the lantern shop!

Someone's wish floats by - we wish that the rain would stop

The food in Hoi An has a French influence and if you stay here to long you will put on weight.  The local specialities of Cao Lau and Pho Ga are delicious comprising a tasty broth with fresh vegetables and spicy chillies.  The beers pretty good too and we are renewing our acquaintance with Larue and Saigon Green beer.

Cargoes Restaurant - Best in Hoi An - again this pavement became submerged!

Mmmm - crispy fish ......great with chips

We visited old friends in A Dong Silk tailors and of course No 9 Shoes for hand-made shoes and bags and have spent our time here eating drinking and going for fittings of the clothes we are having made and the new shoes which fit like a glove. 

So much to choose from

No 9 Shoe Shop for comfy shoes that fit like a glove.

Hoi An has given us the opportunity to unwind and re-charge our batteries before we go to Myanmar on Thursday when our epic journey begins in earnest.