Wednesday, April 27, 2011

HOI AN ancient town

......and then there was Hoi An. The traffic is far less here and cars are not allowed in the old quarter which is bliss. We do not understand why the old quarter in Ha Noi and other historical precincts don't have similar restrictions as much for the locals peace of mind as for the added dimension it would allow for travelers. Tourists and locals can amble the streets and shop to their hearts content. I must admit I have never seen so many tourists in Hoi An in the 11 years I have been coming here. Many are in big tour groups as are traveling as couples or alone. Europeans predominate either as neo-geriatric or as students with complicated gap year or with learning options that include traveling in groups of 30-40 and looking marvelous in the swimming pool. Someone should tell them that you don't get much mileage out of Scandanivian skin in the tropics.


The river at sunset and by nightfall the river side is lit up with coloured lanterns in all the cafes and shops. It really is lovely to stroll around the town.

 Today was spent bargaining for things for our shop and designing some silver pieces as well.
The new designs and samples are looking good. We had dinner with Thao and Huong last night and I ate my first JELLY FISH SALAD. What can I say it was interesting and I have been aching for revenge ever since being stung in the mouth and face by that bluebottle stinger more than 30 years ago.
Found this growing in the shower, that's the tropics for you and when I can figure out a use for it I might start importing them.










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