The old port town of Hội An is picturesque, no doubt. Though somewhat gentrified these days with piped muzak and coloured lanterns, its streets still reflect the town's historic merchant past if one turns one's head the right way at the right time. It might be a bicycle leaned up against the back of the old Japanese bridge. Or ochre walls streaked with mould, on which hang birdcages and a bouquet of wilting flowers. Moments and vignettes to dwell on.
For a second or two.
Before I get me to the market.
Nice photo. Its funny you should mention the bicycle because I actually took a pic. of a bicycle when I was in Hoi An, very artistic looking, and right near the old Japanese bridge. Later, though, I noticed that the bicycle was actually leaning against the entrance to a bathroom :)
I love the muzak culture of Hoi An; it really creates this safe little world for tourists where there's just enough "authentic" atmosphere to explore, and then you can return to your resort in the evening just down the street. Also, everyone speaks English in that area so you never feel uncomfortable or out of place. What an interesting experience! Thx for the post.
Zac
The West Lake Review
Posted by: Zac Herman | 09 January 2011 at 09:12 PM
Zac - you're right about it being a 'safe' destination...really pays to rent a motorbike and go over the bridge or up the road a bit to see what rural life in the central region is all about. For the record, I loathe the muzak!
Posted by: Sticky | 10 January 2011 at 10:17 PM
Thank you for your lovely blogg.
Found it when I was on my way to Vietnam to become a mother. Unfortenately you write about Hanoi, and we went to HCMC and Rach Gia. But, hopefully, in a couple of years we'll return toghether and maybe see Hanoi too. Hope your still around with your tips then.
Tove from Sweden
Posted by: Tove | 12 January 2011 at 04:53 PM
But, hopefully, in a couple of years we'll return toghether and maybe see Hanoi too.
Posted by: baseball hats | 12 August 2011 at 09:29 AM