Hidden Meanings.

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What is it about travel that sinks its hooks into me so deeply time and again? The awe and wonder when I first set foot in unknown territory is pure adrenaline but it is merely eye-candy. The deeply affecting fascination comes from the moment when I can truly connect with what I am seeing and understand humanness in all its forms, both ancient and present. It is stumbling upon authentic moments which present themselves naturally when you settle, observe, and communicate with those who surround you. 


Our first impressions of Hoi An (a UNESCO World Heritage Centre) were of pure delight at its obvious beauty. Often described as, “one of the most charming and romantic ancient cities in the world”, Hoi An was a prominent trading port from the 15th-19th centuries for silk, porcelain, pepper, cinnamon, and medicinal plants. Its architecture is a well maintained fusion of French, Japanese and Chinese influences which are situated along the banks of picturesque canals and bordered by moss lined alley ways. The entire city is adorned in colourful lanterns which morph into magical glowing orbs at dusk. 


However, our notions slowly morphed into more of a “theme park on steroids” vibe when obnoxious street vendors and pushy tourists sprouted up in the tens of thousands for the incoming lunar festival. At that moment our eyes adjusted to a new kind of Hoi An.  


For our family, the real beauty of this city came from the more simple, back alley moments. It was embodied in our morning breakfasts spent at Ellie’s, a local entrepreneur and her family who ran a secret garden cafe in an unassuming neighborhood just a few blocks from our home stay. It was in the simple conversations with our home stay owner, Em (Em's Homestay), who organized in-room puppy play dates with her 3 month old fur ball, Honey, once she found out our children loved animals. It was listening to the humble stories and perspectives of Vinh and Ming (Guruwalk) as we walked the city and they described the BECAUSE’S to many of our WHY’S. Hoi An became truly beautiful when we took the time to understand her people and their story. 



Hoi An by Night 
Hoi An by Day
Basket Boat Tour in the Coconut Forest 
Street walking tour of the Ancient City 
Enjoying life in all shapes and forms 

Comments

  1. PhilFebruary 12, 2023 at 3:39 AM

    Well said, both words and pictures, to think it's that way every day. Our life here seems more than a half world away. A different universe. Particularly in values. Happy valentines & happy travels.

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousFebruary 15, 2023 at 7:03 AM

    A belated Happy Valentine’s Day. Sending love & hugs to everyone 🥰.
    All the colours, all the experiences, all the smiles and sense of wonder are amazing! Love seeing the pictures of your adventures!
    Love & hugs
    Kath & Brian

    ReplyDelete
  3. Sharon Verley-EntzFebruary 19, 2023 at 4:15 PM

    What an adventure for your family! Enjoy every moment! Soak up every single thing and eat, eat, eat!

    ReplyDelete

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