Joanna James
A bustling trading port not that long ago, Hoi An on Vietnam’s central coast is an unmissable destination today for tourists to the Southeast Asian nation. Despite its newfound popularity, the city still has its authentic charm intact, taking you back in time to the Vietnam of centuries past.
The undisputed crown jewel of the Vietnamese city, the centuries-old Old Town, is what single-handedly put Hoi An on the map for almost all its visitors. A mixture of French, Chinese, and even Japanese buildings line the atmospheric streets, reflecting the city’s long Colonial history. Among the abounding quaint charm in the old-world quarter, the striking Japanese Bridge grabs the spotlight, whose architectural magnificence leaves no traveller to the charming Old Town blasé.
While it’s the quaint charm that brings travellers to Hoi An, your experience in the seaside city wouldn’t be complete without savouring the city’s string of stunning beaches. Quite frankly, beaches in Hoi An aren’t the best, but among all those who call the delightful city home, An Bang Beach undoubtedly tops the list. Unwind under swaying palms, sip on tropical cocktails, bask in the sun and set your inner beach bum free.
As the sun goes down and the darkness descends upon charming Hoi An, there’s no place you’d rather be than Hoi An Night Market. Visitors to the market are treated to oodles of authentic experiences and is the undisputed source of nightlife that says, authentically Hoi An. Stroll the atmospheric marketplace and grab a bite to eat from the assortments of mouth-watering street food varieties, or pick up a traditional souvenir or two to take back home, or ideally both.
Off the coast of Hoi An, the idyllic Cham Islands are drops of tropical paradise for fun-filled day trips. Hop aboard a boat and set sail into the wide-open seas to embark on an exciting adventure, island hopping the 8 islands of the Cham Islands. Visitors to the islands have a world of exhilarating activities awaiting them, from snorkelling to scuba diving, swimming and sea kayaking.
Among everything fun, exciting and fascinating the Southeast Asian nation has in store for you, it would be a pity not to savour the country’s authentic local cuisine. Embark on an exploration of local cuisine on your getaway to the delightful city, perhaps at one of the finest hotels in Hoi An the likes of Anantara Hoi An Resort. From steaming hot Pho to delicious Bun cha, indulge in an assortment of delectable traditional dishes Hoi An has to offer and let your taste buds revel in the mouth-watering blend of flavours.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
