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We took the sleeper train overnight to Hoi An. An Aussie couple we met in the station kindly let us share with them in their cabin after they saw we were going to have Vietnamese company for the night! The train was so much better than the bus, but we still didn't get much sleep! We ended up sleeping in our guesthouse most of the morning.
The weather in Hoi An was the coldest we've experienced on our trip so far but it didn't matter because the town is pretty at all times. At night they light lanterns everywhere along the streets and people float candles down the river. We ate at the river twice on wooden benches from the street near the Japanese bridge and had the best food so far in Vietnam! We explored the old colonial sights the first day which were like nothing we've seen so far, especially as there is so much Chinese influence and after shopping around we also picked a tailor to make our suits- Mr Xe!
The next day we took the Morning Glory cookery course which was so good! Market tour, street food tasting and then made 4 vietnamese dishes. So delicious! We then went for our 1st suit fitting. It was impressive, in 24 hours they had made Oli's grey suit and waistcoat, and my navy suit and dress. Mr Xe made his corrections and Oli was sent to the sweat shop for changes. We would go back the next day for a follow up! Oli was so happy already he chose to purchase another tailor made suit, this time a navy version which came with a free shirt and I got another dress made!
On our last full day we took the Free Bicycle Tour run by the local university students of Hoi An and Danang. In return for it being free, they get to practice their English. We took the ferry to an island across the river and were shown around by 'Miss Charming', Pearl, Thao and Le. We cycled to a temple, boat yard, played games and then went to a rice noodle and sleeping mat factory. When I say factory, I mean a back room in someone's house! The tour was the best thing we've done in Vietnam so far, we learnt so much from the students and we met many travellers. The best part was going to places where there were no tourists and it was FREE! We went to our 2nd suit fitting and Oli was taken back to the sweat shop wearing his new navy suit which needed alterations. On his way back with Mr Xe he met the Aussies from the train (simon and camille) so we went for a Bia Hoi over the river whilst we waited for our final suit alterations. That night we went out for drinks and dinner at Morning Glory restaurant with them which was good fun. They have even taken our suits back with them and we will pick them up with Australia! Very kind!
The next day we hopped on the train to Hue nursing two bad hangovers over the famous Hoi Van Pass. The train ride was amazing, it clung to the edge of the cliffs looking over the sea and went through some long tunnels that cut through the mountains.
- comments
Mum It sounds like you've been having a great time there! The bike tour looks good fun and interesting too, and all for free! Can't wait to see the suits! Love to you both! Mum xxxxxx