Day 5 of the tour, and it’s on the bus to travel to Hoi An. Just outside of Hue, we stop at the ornate mausoleum of the Emperor Tu Duc, one of the Nguyen kings. Shortly afterwards, an Incense factory, with an opportunity to buy locally made products and souvenirs.
Lunch is at a restaurant close to the beach in Da Nang. Very nice, and then an opportunity to check out My Keh beach, often called China Beach, made famous by a TV series of the same name.
A short bus journey from Da Nang, and we are in Hoi An. The town is only just recovering from significant flooding, so the hotel pool is not available. However, the hotel is comfortable and close to the old town. Hoi An is very popular with tourists, with the charming ancient town area particularly busy. Our guide Kien took us in to the Old Town, recommended restaurants and places in which to have clothes made, leather to buy and spectacles and sunglasses. The Old Pharts get measured up, and order shirts to be made. Very reasonable prices. We dined at one of his suggestions, and were happiness filled. The walk back to the hotel takes us through the night markets, where Blair purchased a bag. The coloured lanterns, narrow lanes and wooden houses are highlights.
Day 6 and an early start, as most of the group are cycling into the countryside, to Tra Que village. Here, we discover age old farming practices, with hands on experience of tending gardens and cooking lunch.
The activity for the evening, is an optional Street Eats tour, each of us on the back of Vespas. Most of the group turn up, and it is a great success. Lots of food and drink, fun riding on Vespas and a river cruise to boot!
Another early breakfast and departure, this time to Bana Hills Resort, a creation for tourists about an hour inland from Hoi An.
It is famous for the Golden Bridge, held in place by giant hands. There are six cables all heading up, with the peak being at 1500m above sea level. The weather is cool and misty, but we proceed in the hope it will clear.
After a sunset river cruise, we said goodbye to 6 of our group, who were heading off to other holiday destinations. We dined once again at Morning Glory restaurant. An outdoor table with great views of the river and lights of Hoi An.