Located in the province of Quang Nam, a short 30 km south of Da Nang, Hoi An is a popular tourist destination. Hoi An is considered a living museum, and in December 1999, it was indexed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It's your one-stop shop for culture, history, beaches, and iconic Vietnam lanterns. Read on to discover why you need to visit Hoi An, the historic city in Vietnam.
History of Hoi An
The history of Hoi An is displayed in all its splendor through its unique architecture. Streets are kept in pristine condition and still bear the footprints of Ancient Vietnam with touches of Chinese, Japanese, and French cultures. You'll see houses built of concrete and others of jackfruit wood, which is surprisingly very solid. Hoi An is a coastal destination that allows tourists to enjoy the ocean and heritage preserved for generations.
One of the many wonders within Hoi An is the 'Chùa Cầu', also known as the Japanese Covered Bridge. This monument is known to connect neighborhoods inhabited by Japanese and Chinese communities. Each end of the bridge is guarded by a pair of wooden adoration statues in the form of a dog and a monkey. According to Japanese belief, these animals are considered to be sacred, being able to control the sea monster.
Handicraft in Hoi An
You'll wander along the bridge, find a bowl of Cao Lau, and get a peek at artisanal vendors selling handmade lanterns and unique souvenirs, but the question is, how good are your negotiation skills? Hoi An will immerse visitors in top-tier cultural and culinary experiences, including bespoke merchants, delicate antique and souvenir shops, bustling corner cafes, and vibrant marketplaces.
Hoi An is known for making tailored suits and dresses within 24 hours, making it a must-do experience. You could even design a whole new travel wardrobe to stay comfortable in the sweltering Vietnam heat, and it's a rare keepsake that will live in your closet after your travels.
Here is a list of different tailors, ranging in price but uncompromising on customer service.
Address: 40 Le Loi, Hoi An.
Phone: ( 84.510)3 910579/3 861386
Son Ca tailor shop
Address: 127 Tran Phu, Hoi An
Phone: (+08)88017167
Where to stay in Hoi An
While the best place to stay in Hoi An depends on what fuels your comfort, we've rounded up a list of accommodations that keep you central and hit different price points.
Treat yourself to : This hotel and spa offers modern accommodations featuring river views and an on-site restaurant that includes local and international meals. The staff are highly trained and will be able to organize tours of the area, plus you'll leave rejuvenated from the spa!
Balance the budget with : The option for dorm rooms or private rooms makes this accommodation acceptable to anyone's wallet. You'll experience beautiful French colonial architecture and be close to the bustling Ancient Town walking street. A great bonus: bicycles are available at your leisure.
Splash out at : This lush accommodation has a private beach where guests can enjoy the ocean uninterrupted. You'll enjoy being a little more secluded and a private airport shuttle to the hotel upon arrival. The team at HA can speak English, Vietnamese, and Chinese.
Nightlife in Hoi An
Hoi An, like Hanoi, is still on a regulated curfew, meaning most places will close by midnight. But you can still explore a plethora of bistros, cafes, and bars, especially in the concentrated area of Ancient Town and the riverside. You will often find someone advertising a late-night bar, but make sure you have planned for transportation, as finding a taxi after curfew may present a challenge. If you spend the evening in Hoi An's ancient town, you'll stroll from one bar to the next, stopping for a snack and meeting other foreigners enjoying the small-town atmosphere. It's a unique environment, as you'll witness busking and people entertaining you directly on the street.
Important:
Be aware of taxi drivers and unreliable meters. Use apps like Grab when traveling around the city for security, and always double-check the license plate.
Beaches in Hoi An
Hoi An is also known for its white-sand beaches and picturesque palm-tree-lined views. During your stay, enjoy a relaxing day at the beach or more adventurous activities, including water skiing, jet skiing, surfing, kite surfing, and more. You can also explore the rich underwater flora and fauna during a dive or plan a visit to the nearby Cham Islands.
Hoi An's most popular beach is An Bang beach, frequented by year-round citizens and tourists alike. For a more intimate experience head to Binh Minh beach or Hidden beach!
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