Buzz
To experience the simplicity and rustic charm of Hội An, wake up before dawn. At that time, the city is tranquil, time seems to stand still, and space is almost redefined. Wandering through every corner, the walls covered in moss still glisten with dew. Here and there, a few people enjoy the fresh and cool atmosphere. Across the river, some continue their journey for livelihood.
Occasionally, some tourists stroll around with their cameras to capture beautiful moments. On street corners, some vendors begin to set up their stalls. As the first rays of sunlight illuminate the roofs, penetrate through the old walls, and bring out the pink hues from paper flowers, a new day for the people of the old town officially begins.
Around 6 a.m., the streets become busier with street vendors and bicycles. Some early risers exercise, go to the market, or read newspapers. Schoolgirls elegantly in their white ao dai uniforms head to school. In the early sunshine, Hội An appears fresh and peaceful, reminiscent of paintings by artist Bùi Xuân Phái.
The atmosphere gradually changes as tourists awaken. Hội An slowly returns to the image of a tourist area with its street vendors and footsteps. Sipping coffee and biting into crispy baguettes is how the people of Hội An greet the new day.
As noon approaches, the sun becomes more golden, as if coated in honey. The city adorns itself with the characteristic shimmer of the Central region. The Hoai River meanders, showcasing its silver sparkle. Meanwhile, Hội An on rainy days exudes an enchanting, unusually alluring charm. During those times, the city loses its festive vibe.
The crowds dissipate. All that fills the space is the sound of rain. Hội An in the rain seems even more beautiful, mysterious, and indescribably melancholic. But the rain cannot deter the footsteps of tourists. Hence, sometimes, the entire neighborhood is filled with colorful umbrellas.
Hoi An stands as a city unlike any other
Describing Hoi An, someone once told me that this place is truly unique. There's no blend of cultures here, the city remains intact with its wooden houses, moss-covered tile roofs, red paper lanterns, and flower garlands. Hoi An is a bustling town yet remarkably serene.
Here, the effortless flow of time seems incapable of burying the ancient air of centuries past. In Hoi An, life moves slowly. The quaintness of the ancient town captivates, leading one to wander and forget their path. Hence, many fall in love with it upon their first visit.
Réhahn, one of the world's top photographers, decided to sell his house in France and move his entire family to Hoi An after a trip in 2007. “All day long, I can enjoy the tranquility of Hoi An, watching gentle breezes sway the lotus flowers in front of my house. Surrounding me is the sound of flowing water as neighbors water their vegetables,” he shared.
After years of traveling to over 30 countries worldwide, he found happiness settling in this riverside city. Réhahn mentions how every time he steps out of his house, neighbors smile and greet him. Vietnam has offered the French photographer more freedom and happiness than anywhere else he's been.
“Hoi An generously provides me with exactly what an artist needs. Here, there's no rush, life isn't overly hectic, and there's nothing distracting me,” he says. In terms of photography, Réhahn likens the city to an outdoor studio. “The yellow walls, traditional way of life, and friendly people... this is truly a photographer's paradise,” he emphasizes.
The Simplicity of Hoi An People
Everywhere, it's the people who embody the soul of the land. Not as formal as those from the North, nor as flamboyant as those from the South, but the people of the Central region are genuinely sincere and kind-hearted. Their gentle voices, laughter, and courteous greetings amidst the backdrop of the mossy ancient town attest to all of this.
Hoi An locals are straightforward, friendly, and hospitable. Whoever visits, they are warmly welcomed. If you're lucky, they might invite you over for a meal. The hospitality dishes up humble yet sometimes surprisingly delicious treats. The more you interact, the more you'll find Hoi An people incredibly endearing. They don't hesitate to offer travelers advice: “Don't buy too much. What you've got is enough” or “The items from the shop over there are newer than mine. Maybe you should try there instead.”
And so, on moonlit nights filled with folk songs along the Hoai River; during leisurely afternoon strolls through narrow alleys, stopping by for a bowl of refreshing tofu pudding; sitting by the river at dusk, feeling the peaceful passage of time in their eyes... the people of Hoi An embed fond memories deep within the hearts of travelers from afar, prompting them to remember, to cherish, and to return in search of the warmth and rediscovery of their own souls.
Who Owes Hoi An a Promise?
In the hearts of many, Hoi An is a city straight out of a fairy tale. How many young girls have whispered to themselves that one day they'll bring their loved ones here, to sit on a small wooden boat drifting quietly along the river, releasing lanterns and admiring the moon's reflection on the water's surface.
Under the night's veil, Hoi An exudes vibrant splendor. Along the banks, people come and go, festivals abound. High-hanging couplets await resolution. Lanterns illuminate every corner. Poet Nguyen Ngoc once wrote about Hoi An: “In the night of the ancient town… lanterns aglow, Visitors from afar… marveling at the sights. With a rosy-cheeked maiden, her ivory heels gently tapping as she gazes at the distant streets, adorned with lanterns.”
For some, Hoi An epitomizes youth. When youthfulness reigns supreme, they eagerly explore, indulge in the finest delicacies, gather in laughter-filled festivities. Yet Hoi An also embodies old age, where one quietly sits on doorsteps, seeks drinking companions, plays chess. From couples to solitary wanderers, anyone can come here. And no matter who you are, the city will never disappoint.
According to Kim Ngan / Zing News (Photo: Dao Quang Tuyen)
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Reference: Travel guide from Mytour
MytourNovember 20, 2018
