Hoi An is a still functioning traditional river/coastal port complete with a traditional produce market. Listed by UNESCO in 1999, it has retained its traditional wooden architecture, townscape, façades and roof lines. Its original street plan, still contains buildings backing on to the river, quays, canals and bridges in their original setting.
Our hotel the Anantara & this French colonial style building mark the downstream end of the town. The road left (Phan Bqi Chau St) where Gavin is standing leads up to the old port. It is a vibrant 19th century street, (which seems to have a modern name) the area is enjoyable & has been developed sensitively to provide travel and other essential 21st century tourist needs.
During the French colonial period Hoi An was an administrative centre. This was the Police Station.
It is now “The Brothers Restaurant & Bar” The complex has two wings running back from the street with dining verandas overlooking the Thu Bon River and a magnificent cool garden between.
All recommended for dinning cocktails or just relaxing out of the heat.
Continuing west along Bach Dang St, the bustling street market is encountered.
No cars are permitted in the old town including this area.
The vast indoor market (2 Sheds about 250ft long) is located to the right the market wharf is behind the left hand stalls.
Its the end of the day and most veggies have gone.
The butcher has sold all his meat, only his cardboard display trays remain!
The market wharf lays empty. But in the background its a different story.
Going home time is the same the world over, this ferry wharf is a hive of activity all day but becomes manic in the mornings and evenings, motor bikes at the bow bicycles on the stern & roof, people in the centre.
I would have said all very very organised until I noticed the life jackets located behind the bikes tantalisingly out of reach of potential clients!!!!!!
Regret:-
Did not do a trip!
However the flower sellers stay on station and add colour to the twilight.
Recently the authorities have been encouraging the use of traditional Chinese lanterns to illuminate cafes, shops and outdoor seating areas, the reflections from the river give a delightful effect. Soon after dusk the night is full of people dinning out, walking or just chatting by the river.
Cycling also continues after dark, it’s the best way to see the town,(night or day) most hotels provide free bikes.
A favourite place to hang out was the old lifting bridge with its illuminated signs and views up & down the river banks.
Then a strole back to the hotel.