Timeless Hoi An

Greatest Moment: There is so much to be said in this town, we don't know where to begin! What we will remember most is walking around old town Hoi An, where the lanterns lit the cobblestone streets and thin, encompassing walkways. The restaurants were as quaint and laid in with nature and light. The outdoor markets had the most intricate jewelry, leather made bags, lanterns, and decor. We would weave through the streets on our bikes, and at night would purchase lanterns to place them into the river with a wish.

Worst Moment: We should've saved more money for Hoi An. With absolutely everything that we could have made and tailored there, we could've created as many outfits as possible. Or for Kathy's sake, more Jane Austen inspired dresses and coats!

Lesson Learned: Many people will discourage you from independently getting around the city, or to the surrounding areas. We decided to rent a motorbike regardless, and cautiously drive out to see My Son of the Cham Ruins. It turned out to be a great decision, as we took our own detours to view the fisherman throw out nets for his daily catches, fill up at a home with gasoline jugs, and progress at our pace through the ancient ruins.

Cultural Insight: The Cham Ruins were undeniably a must see. The earliest temples built were in the 4th century, which was long before the Angkor temples in Cambodia. The stones of the Cham ruins are stacked upon one another without mortar, and lean in such a way that one wonders how they could still be standing. It was picturesque with the hills around it, and tragic with the bomb craters beside many of the temples.

While Hue calmed us, Hoi An brought light and life to our adventure. We ate at an Indian restaurant night after night once we discovered it's paneer butter masala dish, and every morning we met with our tailor to create dresses and coats of our desires. Each step in Hoi An has air beneath it, as the Coco-Box charms you and warms your spirit with masala chai, and the surrounding farm lands breathe past you as you pedal your bike around its winding meadows. Five days here were not enough, but I imagine five years could do no more. It is a small luxury to stay there, and a timeless getaway.