Hoi An is a picturesque riverside town 30km south or Da Nang. Most visitors agree it is the most enchanting place on the coast and is one city worth lingering in. Known as Faifo to early Western traders, it was one of South-East Asia’s major international ports during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. In its heyday, Hoi An, a contemporary of Macau and Melaka, was an important port or call for Dutch, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese and other trading vessels. Vietnamese ships and sailors based in Hoi An sailed to all sections of Vietnam, as well as Thailand and Indonesia. Perhaps more than any other place in Vietnam, Hoi An retains a sense or history that grows on you the more you explore it.

Every year during the rainy season, in particular the months of October and November, Hoi An has problems with flooding, especially near the waterfront. The greatest flood ever recorded in Hoi An took place in 1964, when the water reached all the way up to the roof beams of the houses.

Though Hoi An has yet to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preservation efforts arc well up to par. Several historical structures are open for public viewing, a number of streets in the centre or town are off-limits to motor traffic, and building alteration and height restrictions are well enforced. If only Hanoi would follow suit in the historic Old Quarter.

Despite the number or tourists who come to Hoi An Vietnam, it is still a very conservative town, and visitors should dress modestly when taming the sites.

‘Hoi An Legendary Night’ takes place on the 14th day of every lunar month (full moon) from 5.30 to 10 pm. This colorful monthly event features traditional rood, song and dance, and games along the lantern-lit streets in the town centre.

Anywhere within town can be reached on foot. To go further a field, rent a bicycle for US$1 per day or a motorbike for US$5/10 per day without/with driver.

Boat A paddle-boat trip on the Thu Bon River (Cai River) the largest in Quang Nam Province is recommended. A simple rowing boat with oarsperson costs something like US$2 per hour, and one hour is probably long enough for most travelers. With a motor launch it may be possible to take an all-day boat ride all the way to Tra Kieu (Simhapura) and the My Son area.

Boats that carry up to five people can also be hired to visit area handicraft and fishing villages; expect to pay around US$4 per hour. Look for the boats near the rowboat dock, and across from the Rose restaurant.