David Shoulder - Isle of Wight: #HoiAn

The established tourist route is likely to take you to Hoi An. There is nothing wrong with that. It is a "nice" place but maybe a bit too nice. I suppose what I am questioning is its authenticity given that it is now focused so much on tourism.

However read the travel guides and I have it completely wrong. Lonely Planet describes Hoi An as graceful, historic and Vietnams most atmospheric and delightful town. Hoi An was once a major and prosperous port and retains many of the old buildings that represents its wealth in times past. By UNESCO decree more than 800 historic buildings in Hoi An have been preserved and the claim is the Old Town has retained its incredible legacy as a result. Fair enough. The Old Town is lovely to wander around but I would say that while many of the buildings are indeed beautiful and no doubt original the fact is most buildings are shops restaurants or bars. There are also many outfitters and tailors. Hoi An is one of those places where you can get measured up and collect the made up suit in 24 hours. The standout characteristic is how friendly and obliging the people are. Service everywhere is outstanding - a national characteristic I would suggest.

Also to be fair to Hoi An our short visit was further restricted by recent heavy rain and flooding as a result. It is the rainy season. Incredible rain and so warm. My pictures show the flooding but it was of little consequence - the people here are so used to it.

A couple of mad memories. It is early evening. We want to get across to An Hoi island. The river has flooded over the 50 yards to the bridge. People are everywhere- it is very colourful. The locals tend to wear flip flops or plastic sandals so they just walk across. Some tourists take off their shoes and socks and walk across. Rob follows suit. But I am approached by a lad on a bicycle - a lift across on the back of his pushbike 30000 VND - say a £1. I agree £20000. I wizz over feet dry and overtake Rob - ha ha! On the way back we shared a moped ride for 40 !

Another - again the rain. Our hotel was modestish - about £15 per night each - (includes a comprehensive breakfast choice) but it did have a roof top swimming pool on its 6th floor. It is early morning and I decide a swim before breakfast. It was memorable. Almost an infinity pool looking out over Hoi An and the river. Just me. The heavens open. As heavy a rain as I have ever experienced. I loved swimming through it. At one pont I thought it was hail - the drops so heavy the little splashes so big! It felt surreal. I will always remember that 20 minutes.

Anyway go to Hoi An you will enjoy it. I am glad we went there.

Here are a few mob photos :

Maybe my favourite half hour in Hoi An. A tatty plastic shelter. No language except a common language. Good ordinary guys. I tried some Vietnamese from my guide book. Real.