We flew to Đà Nẵng in Central Việt Nam, and from there went by road to Hội An, a small coastal city designated a World Heritage Site in 1999.
Hội An was a busy trading port until the end of the 18th century, with Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, and Indian traders establishing themselves in various parts of the city. Then two factors contributed to its decline: the Nguyễn dynasty which came to power in Việt Nam gave their French allies access to Đà Nẵng as a main trading port; and the Thu Bồn river passing through Hội An silted over, making it more difficult for ships to use the harbor.
Soon eclipsed by Đà Nẵng, Hội An languished until recently when international tourism discovered its charms. The old quarters along the river have been preserved much as they were originally. The pace of life is much more relaxed than in cities like Sài Gòn or Đà Nẵng, and it is possible to stroll leisurely along its streets without being bothered by cars or motorbikes. Walking is what we did over two days in Hội An from our homestay lodging to the old quarters, both during the day and at night.
During the day, it was easier to see the old assembly halls or temples, some dating back to the 16th century.
Tonkin Travel Vietnam said:
Our Hoi An is beautiful and steeped in history. Sounds like you are having a great time. Amazing shots, perfect light. 🙂
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neihtn2012 said:
Thank you for visiting this blog and commenting!
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bayphotosbydonna said:
What beautiful structures and colors, Hien!
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neihtn2012 said:
Thanks Donna!
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Tiny said:
Beautiful pictures from the old quarters! Very charming atmosphere, no wonder tourists have discovered it.
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neihtn2012 said:
Thank you Tiny. I hope the town does not become too touristy and lose its old chamrs.
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allentimphotos2 said:
A very nice series. I really like that you’ve included the little girl and her grandmother. It makes the series very personal.
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neihtn2012 said:
Thank you Tim. Glad you like the photos. That one, of the girl and her grandmother, is one of my favorites.
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allentimphotos2 said:
I can see why it’s one of your favorites.
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C.S. Young Jr. said:
Wonderful photos, beautiful architecture!
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neihtn2012 said:
Thank you!
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quietsolopursuits said:
Everything is so bright and colorful, even at night when lit by the lanterns! I’m loving this look at your homeland, and I’m learning aa great deal from it.
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neihtn2012 said:
Thanks Jerry. The bright sun helped a lot, compared to the cloudy skies that we have experienced since coming back to New Jersey.
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Lisa said:
Beautiful photos sweetie! I hope you had a great Thanksgiving! Hugz Lisa and Bear
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neihtn2012 said:
Thank you Lisa! I hope you had a great Thanksgiving too.
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Ticket to Adventures said:
Your photos are beautiful! I absolutely loved the old quarters of Hoi An, so colourful. And so atmospheric after dark when millions of lanters are lit up.
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neihtn2012 said:
Those lanterns do make a difference! Thanks for commenting.
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katelon said:
That must have been a welcome pace after the big cities. Lovely photos. I love how the buildings are so ornate and colorful.
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neihtn2012 said:
You are right, Katelon. We all welcomed the relaxed, small town pace.
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