We flew from Kuala Lumpur to Danang, in the middle of Vietnam, and hired a taxi to take us to Hoi An to a little oasis just off the centre of Hoi An. Bamboo Village Garden was such a lovely place to relax and unwind as well as a great place to see local life happening here.
We found a little restaurant around the corner they made these yummy spring rolls. Food was divine in this little place that we went back another night for another tasste.
Life on the river never ceases to amaze me. The fish, swim, clean and even drink the water.
Crossing the bridge in Hoi An and looking back there were lanterns hung. It was ever so pretty. At night they lit the lanterns and it was prettier.
Not sure how this wood would dry for use but they had stacks of it sitting. Guess the tide must go down often enough or far enough at times during the year.
A bamboo bike...not sure how road worthy but it was pretty effecitve looking.
On the other side of the river at night time. We had a meal here and admired the many different lanterns.
We took a boat trip out to an island for Wayne to snorkel amongst the coral but he was very disappointed with the coral. TShe island itself was pretty and the meal they provided was the best part of the day.
We took a short walk around the village and walked past this temple with the rice fields in front.
A coracle that is so versatile. This might be our next boat when we go back home. It seems to be so steady.
It was time to leave Hoi An and we made the decision to hire a car and driver to take us over the Hai Van Pass. We had heard how picturesque it was and we weren't disappointed. The pass was used as a barrier to stop movement between north and south Vietnam.
Wayne is standing in one of the view relics left from the war on the top of the pass.
Coming down the other side we passed a lovely fishing village. The bridge in the background leads into the Hai Van Tunnel which cuts off at least an hour of travel time. Finally we were in Hue. We checked into our hotel and went across the road to get some lunch only to be hassled by cyclo people.
We took pity on a guy who said we promised to use him. Much to Wayne's dismay he paid a huge price for the use of him plus he also donated his good sunglasses to the youngish man. He did take us to the local market which was a great place to see local life.
Fresh fruit, veges and meat were everywhere outside the market building. Inside it was crowded with little alley ways to walk down.
On our way back to the hotel we spotted D1NKIE....well almost.
Next morning it was time to get up and have a good breakfst and set off for the day. We wanted to visit the Citadel, which was the seat of the Ngueyn emperors on the north side of the Perfume River. This became like a forbidden city for the emperors, their concubnes and people close to them were invited in.
It is like a city within wall. with a water moat around it.
Many different buildings and architecture inside. It was fascinating to wander around. We were pleased we didn't do a tour as they seemed to rush in and our within half an hour. We spent most of the day here wandering and taking many photos.
While waiting for Wayne I noticed a frog hiding in a hole in a tree. I guess he was keeping out of the sun.
Chameleons were in abundance all over the place and this one posed for me.
The next morning was a trip up the Perfume River to the Thein Mu Pagoda. we were the only ones on our boat which was worth it.
Wayne is standing at the foot of the steps up to the pagoda. This is the largest pagoda in Hue and it is the towns symbol.
Out the back the monks were blessing some fish they had bred before they were released into the river.
Part of this trip was to visit three tombs of Emperors and we weren't disappointed with them. Not knowing what to expect we were pleasantly surprised at the cost,thought that the emperors put into their final resting place.
Sunbathing?
Our last stop was a t village that makes and sells incense and the conical hats.
Of courses we had to buy some of each to bring back.
While in Vietnam we couldn't resist having a local coffee or two. The drip coffee is very nice. And yes we did bring some coffee and little coffee machines back with us. We had looked in the local market and were bargaining with a lady who then tried to sell us the wrong ones. She was not happy when we walked away but we found a better deal at one of the shop houses just down from the hotel.
A highlight or our trip was to do a cooking class where we learnt how to make Pho Bo, fresh and fried spring rolls. they took us back to the local market to purchase the ingredients.
Wayne using a stainless pestle and mortar...we thought this was so good that we sourced one in Danang before we flew home.
Turning the food over and being watched carefully.
Making a pancake was tricky and took a few goes to get it right but when we did it was worth the hassle.
Yes even I had a go...
Putting on the plastic gloves amused our chef.
Yes! I can make spring rolls and we have been practising making them since we have come home.
Enjoying our efforts. Well done Team.
That evening we walked along the river for some night shots and weren't disappointed with our results.
we were up in time for breakfast and then a short taxi ride down tot he train station to take a train ride to Danang. The ride was very pretty but the windows were too dirty to take nay photos.
A hot day called for a cold drink. Somewhere in this drink is a bit of durian ice cream...mmmmm..it was ok but I won't be rushing out to buy!
Our last meal in Vietnam and we were a little disappointed with it. But it was fascinating to see that they do use every bit of the chicken in their meals.
Our highlight of our overnight stay in Danang was to purchase the stainless steel pestle and mortar and to get our hands on a garlic crusher.
