Hoi An

The port city of Hoi An is a major tourist hub and makes no effort to hide it and even flaunts it freely and with good reason. One such display that’s sure to attract visitors is the noticeable lanterns that illuminate the city at night. That’s because local laws require shophouses to dangle these from their facade thus giving one a snippet of what Hoi An is for tourists. Additionally, this is the only city that prohibits motorbikes from plying the roads during most parts of the day. The biggest problem, albeit a good one, that tourists tend to face is that there is much to see and do that it could become very overwhelming.

Being a major trading hub between the 15th and 19th centuries, Hoi An’s influences are a fusion of Chinese, Japanese, European and Vietnamese, and the most picturesque part of the city is the Japanese Covered Bridge that crosses the peaceful Thu Bon River. With the customary touristy shot accomplished, make your way to the UNESCO Heritage Site, Old Town, where there are old merchant houses, museums, assembly halls, a theatre, and a traditional handicraft workshop. Choose wisely though as the entrance fee only allows visitors a maximum of 5 attractions per ticket.

After Old Town, Hoi An’s other attractions are the Hoi An Central Market, Hoi An Night Market, Hoi An Silk Village, and the Tra Que Village. But simply walking along the narrow peaceful roads especially at night is a great experience in itself. And if it so happens that you require a suit, you’re in luck because the city is known for its good quality custom-made suits which will be ready for you the next day.