Yesterday we crossed the mountainous Hai Van Pass just before entering the city of Danang where famous China Beach is located. The big hotels going up here is in full swing. There are now big companies from Korea and other countries who now own parts of the beach for their tourists. The girls had a swim and we continued our drive onto Hoi An via Marble Mountain. And yes we purchased a marble momento.
On top of this mountain pass is an old French-made bunker that was a communications and military station during the war with the French and then the Americans. You could still see bullet holes in the walls of the external walls. Great position.
We got to our hotel at 2pm and headed straight for the pool. Our hotel is called the Sunflower and Steve has been doing a great job booking accommodation as we go a couple of days ahead via booking.com and tripadvisor.com. $67 for 2 rooms including breakfast, air-con and use of the pool and outside bar area.
The hotel offers a free shuttle bus to the Old Town. Most of Hoi An escaped destruction in the war because there was an agreement between both sides! It is a beautiful place – very charming, French and quaint. There are sooooo many tailors and shoe makers. ANYTHING can be copied and made here. Our little walk last night and we all got giddy at the offers. The shops have beautiful vines and plants climbing over them which just adds to the attractiveness of the Old Town. I wonder if there’s another French style cafe to enjoy a latte.
Anyway off to breakfast now to eat and have a family meeting about our day ahead – so much on offer: swimming at the beach, clothes fitting, bike riding, cooking classes or just lazing by the pool with a cocktail or eating the infamous Cau Lau noodles dish for 29,000 Dong. Aghhh the life of the traveller.
PS here’s our driver Chu who drove us all safely from Hue to Hoi An and stopped off at all the great places along the way. Thank you so much Chu the journey was so comfortable. We have your conical hat with us so will drop into your sisters clothes shop.
Hello to the Cole family.
If your still in HoiAn and are after a French coffee/pastry find the cargo club. Plenty of beautiful pastries and the coffees are pretty good but not as good as The Deli!!
Sounds like your all having a blast!! Can’t wait to catch up when you get back and compare notes
Luv n hugs to you all
Jenn