The Bright & The Beautiful - Hoi An & Hue, Vietnam.

Hoi An.

Hoi An, Vietnam.

Walking the streets of Hoi An, you could almost be convinced you are walking amongst the architecture in a little French town. The ancient town has been preserved exceptionally, bursting with character and colour.

Beautiful shops line the streets and lane ways. Primarily aimed at tourists, you are sure to find traditional hand-made art and crafts for gifts and souvenirs.

At every glance there is a tailors, the main attraction for people visiting Hoi An. It can be a quite overwhelming, so my advice would be to do a little research before selecting one, and not to simply go on your hotel recommendation, as more than likely they will send you in the direction of a family member!

I can recommend ‘A Dong Silk’. You are likely to pay a little more than at some of the other tailors, however you are paying for exceptional service and great quality. For investing in smart dresses and suits, the value is unbeatable.

The added bonus to visiting Hoi An, apart from the architectural beauty, great restaurants, and undeniable charisma, is that from the Old Town it is only a short walk to white sand, clear blue sea and a palm tree lined beach.

Hue.

Hué is packed with temples, pagodas, palaces and tombs. It’s architecture overwhelming. It’s worth asking your hotel what tours they organise, as getting to each and every one by yourself could prove difficult, and add up in cost. Most will have different routes in which they will include a variety of different sites to see. Research which ones are most important for you to see.

If you are happy to walk, visiting the sites in the main city without a guide is perfectly doable. Just remember to pack lots of water and snacks!

Bright colours, patterns and textures distinguish each building. Every one beautiful in their own way.

All images Gemma Lofthouse ©