Hoi An is an alluring riverside town

Once a major trading port, Hoi An has transformed into an alluring riverside town.

It escaped bombing in both the war with America and the war with the French and in 1999 its old town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It makes for great strolling around the streets, exploring delightful old wooden buildings, the Japanese Bridge, pagodas and temples. 

Hoi An is home to many potters, woodcarvers and artists, and this is the place for some souvenir shopping. Many travellers also pay a visit to a tailor here, select some material, thrust forward an existing item of clothing and then have a brand new garment whipped up within 24 hours.

Hoi An makes a great base for exploring the nearby ancient Champa ruins at My Son and half-day tours can be arranged.