🇻🇳 Hidden Treasure by the Coast — Hoi An Ancient Town, Just Outside Da Nang

#summervacay Just 20km south of Da Nang along the scenic coastal road from My Khe Beach lies Hoi An, a charming ancient town that dates back to the Champa Kingdom over 1,500 years ago. Once a bustling port and Vietnam’s earliest Chinese enclave, Hoi An was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. Strolling through its old streets, I was struck by the harmony of sun-kissed yellow walls and bougainvillea cascading from rooftops, reminiscent of Luang Prabang’s tranquil vibe. Beyond the French colonial facades, you’ll spot plenty of Chinese architecture — temples, guildhalls, and ancestral halls like Fujian Assembly Hall and Chaozhou Hall with traditional Chinese plaques and couplets on display. These remnants now quietly narrate tales of the Nanyang (南洋) Chinese diaspora. 🌸 Most people come here like I did: To wander, snap pictures, sip coffee, and float down the river on a coconut boat 🛶. But beware — the midday sun is brutal this time of year! I found myself darting into cafés for shade, only to flee again after realizing many lacked air conditioning. No wonder every trendy café like Moments was packed! ✨ I really wanted to stay for the night view — I've heard the lantern-lit streets are magical — but time was tight. I guess I’ll just have to come back again someday. #hoian #vietnamtravel #danangtohoian #hiddengems #unescoworldheritage #southeastasiavibes #ancienttownwander