Hue, Hoa's Place, and Hoi An, Vietnam

Hue - After arriving in Hue by sleeper bus, we walked to the Citadel. Although it was heavily bombed by American forces, we enjoyed visiting the former Imperial city, especially the Forbidden Purple City.

We, also, visited the Royal Tomb of Tu Doc set amongst pine trees and a small lake. We enjoyed the pavilion, where the Emperor composed poetry and enjoyed the company of his concubines. We traveled to the Tomb by bicycle taxis. I felt a bit as if I was transported back to colonial times; but neglected to feel too guilty since we had to walk up each hill, while the cyclists bicycled up behind us. At least we got some exercise in!  That evening, after an Indian dinner and a few beers, we bid farewell to Win and Rachel.

Hoa's Place - The next day, after a 2 hour bus ride to Danang, we reached Hoa’s place. Hoa’s Place, a chill beach-side oasis, is located on an unpopulated beach. We spent 2 full days lounging seaside. Each evening at 7, we participated in the family dinner with the other guests, which was a great way to get to know fellow travelers and share travel tips and stories. A friendly older French Woman, traveling with her male childhood friend from England, proclaimed that my face resembles that of the smiling Buddha because I’m always smiling and radiating happiness. She was also entranced by Randi’s “beautifully tanned skin”.

  

Hoi An - When we visited Hoi An, we enjoyed walking around the touristy Old Quarter, near the river. Hoi An was a former trading port and the architecture has Chinese, Japanese, and European influences dating back to the 17th century. Hoi An is also know for being the best place in Vietnam to get custom-made clothing. Randi and I took advantage of this. Randi had a skirt and shorts made, while I had has 2 pairs of shorts made.

~ Stacy