April 11 – 13 Hoi An – Travels with Cathy & Howard

We left Halong Bay flying out of Hanoi to Danang. We then drove to our hotel in a little Ancient town of Hoi An which is becoming a major resort area. Along the way, passing through Danang, our guide pointed out several sites related to the US presence during the war. He noted the US Army bridge and the Dragon bridge as we passed over the Han River. He also pointed out the old US airbase.

Foreground is US Army bridge. Dragon Bridge in the background

We arrived at our hotel just in time for cocktails and dinner. Then settled in for a long sleep. We had a long day planned for the next day, a trip to My Son. These are ancient Hindu temples built by Cham kings that date from the 4^th century. The temples are located in what is called the Sacred Valley. The area was bombed extensively during the war as the valley was used as refuge for the Viet Cong. Restoration of the temples was begun by the French in the early 20^th century and has been supported by the Indian government and other NGOs.

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Peanuts drying on the side of the road

During the drive our guide explained that many local farmers will bury their dead in the middle of the rice paddies. This is so the ancestors can keep watch over the crops and bring good harvests. While in the north this practice has been stopped, it is still done in the south.

We returned to the hotel for a swim and then a visit to Hoi An. This is an ancient trading port city dating back to the 7^th century. Today there are still many temples and ancient houses, but most of the town / city is transformed into stalls selling various arts and local crafts as well as restaurants and cafes.

Hoi An Shops
An embroidery shop
Ancient home
Hoi An street
Ancient temple
The river
A taste of Vietnam parade
Street Fair
Market

After our visit to Hoi An, we returned to the hotel for dinner with some friends we met.

April 13 Cham Island

Our next morning, we headed to the port just 30 minutes away to board a dive / snorkel boat. The area is filled with wonderful dive sites. We decided to snorkel as we were leaving the next day and it is not advisable to fly within 24 hours after diving. We saw some wonderful sea life. We even found Nemo. And had a great lunch on the beach.