It's easy to see why Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a favorite destination for many backpackers and frequent 'du lichs' (visitors) of Vietnam. She is a charming, old-world town with interesting architecture; however, caveat emptor - many locals seemed to have sold-out to tourism and have lost their small-town charm, sincerity and generosity, so many would not hesitate to fleece you the du lich. For example, a coconut drink for 50,000 dong (about US$3.15)? "Are you serious, lady?!" (Market price was 7,000 dong, about US$0.45). Several times too, I had to negotiate the exchange rate with the hotel or restaurant staff - exchange rates could fluctuate for no rhyme or reason!
Still, despite the downside of being harassed as a 'du lich', the food was amazing in Hoi An - I have yet to find "Mi Quang" noodles, "Cao Lau" noodles or "White Roses" dumplings outside of Hoi An. I also enjoyed riding my rented bicyle (for 10,000 dong or about US$0.65) to the beach. Though extremely hot and sunny, the clean beach was a nice place to chill.
Still, despite the downside of being harassed as a 'du lich', the food was amazing in Hoi An - I have yet to find "Mi Quang" noodles, "Cao Lau" noodles or "White Roses" dumplings outside of Hoi An. I also enjoyed riding my rented bicyle (for 10,000 dong or about US$0.65) to the beach. Though extremely hot and sunny, the clean beach was a nice place to chill.
(click on any image for a(n) enlarged / gallery view)
Above: "Mi Quang" noodles (10,000 dong = about US$0.65)
Above left: "White Rose" dumplings (30,000 dong = about US$1.90); Above right: "Cao Lau" noodles (10,000 dong = about US$0.65)
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