Alight on a Cultural Voyage in Hoi An, Vietnam
The culmination of influences in the charming heritage town of Hoi An, Vietnam has the potential to turn a stroll through its cobbled streets into a captivating cultural journey. Perched on the banks of the Thu Bon river in central Vietnam, this ancient port city bustles with French, Japanese and Chinese influences that span centuries. Stopping for a moment between timber framed houses to bathe in the rustic yellow glow, it’s no struggle to imagine traders and sailors hurrying to and fro in times gone by. And while the port retired from use as a major shipping route in the 19th century, the vestiges of multicultural influence remain in many aspects of the urban landscape.
Step back in time as you enter the Ancient Town – a UNESCO World Heritage centre. Densely packed along the borders of narrow and winding streets are timeless relics dating back centuries. The function and aestheticism of Hoi An go hand in hand, with each traditional townhouse along the river’s edge opening out onto the water. Take a traditional sampan boat along the waterways and soak in the sights of temples of Chinese influence and houses of the French architectural style. Alighting in the town centre, a walk across the covered wooden bridge, topped by a pagoda, will transport you to 17th century Japan.
Hoi An’s name can be translated as “peaceful meeting place”, and there is nowhere better to retreat into one of the many local restaurants. Discover the local cuisine with one another or take the opportunity to meet someone new over a bite to eat. This area boasts dishes that are found in the Quang Nam province or sometimes only in the city itself. Cao Lau is a noodle dish with a fascinating story, the yellow strings are soaked in water from the Ba Lae well and infused with jungle wood ash from trees on a regional island. Better known, but no less spectacular, is the street food speciality Banh Mi. These popular sandwiches are a multi-cultural feast for the senses – fusing fresh French baguettes with zesty local fillings – and are the perfect pick me up during a day’s exploring as you can find one on almost every street corner.
As day turns to night, the city lights up in a different way. Every evening a bustling market kicks off on the bank of the river, where locals and visitors mingle amidst a variety of sensational stalls. Handicraft products, local wares and original paintings line the sides of the enchanting lantern-lit streets. Each month on the full moon these lanterns transition to the river. The smells of incense waft from shrines and glowing lanterns light up the walkways as the townsfolk honour their ancestors with traditional performances and folk games. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of this ancient city and make a wish as you send a lantern floating across the water.
With so much to explore, a peaceful retreat is the ideal antidote for feet tired from walking. Close to the old town, Anantara Hoi An Resort is nestled amongst lush gardens on the banks of the Thu Bon River. Wake up to soft sunlight and a coffee on your balcony before indulging in a Vietnamese breakfast on the riverfront terrace. Rejuvenated and well rested with energy to spare, you’ll find the cultural feast of Hoi An awaiting right outside your door as soon as you venture outside.