Hoi An, Vietnam

is where one goes for custom made jewelry, clothing, shoes, etc. We went for the shoes, yes, exactly what we need to be carrying around until August, extra pairs of shoes!

We arrived in Hoi An after another long, rocky overnight bus ride and decided this was the town we'd actually get some rest and relaxation time in. The overnight buses were causing serious sleep issues, not to mention ugly bags under the eyes. We stumbled upon the perfect hotel (air con, breakfast buffet included, free internet, a pool!) and spent a few hours playing catch up on the sleep situation. Once we felt energized, we rented bicycles and headed out to explore the charming town of Hoi An. It didn't take long before we were stopped at a shoe shop where P got some non-leather boots made as well as a pair of sneakers and M got 2 pairs made herself. It's just crazy! You walk in, show a photo of what you'd like (i.e.- a pair of $300 Campers) and they make them for you in 24 hours for under $20! We really couldn't pass this up. So we got the shopping urge overwith and moved on with ourselves.
Hoi An was preparing for the evening's festivities to observe Earth Hour 2009. Floating lanterns were situated on the river running through town, locals were setting up streetside stands to sell floating candles and everything imaginable that glows in the dark. Meanwhile, huge speakers began the countdown to Earth Hour early in the day, hours before lights were to be turned off...let's just say people were overly excited. And finally, the lights went out, the locals were loving it and the few tourists around seemed confused- why was everyone so excited to turn lights off? The river scene was enjoyable- floating lanters gliding past tiny traditional boats full of happy Vietnamese playing guitars, harmonicas, flutes and singing their songs.
All the moving about since landing in SE Asia really caught up to us in Hoi An- we slept in, spent countless hours lounging, shmoozing, slowly riding bikes, sipping coffee, people watching and playing cards. We really weren't used to this fast paced schedule, thankfully Hoi An was the perfect place to relax and recharge.
Our next stop was the old city of Hue. We were told it was much like Hoi An, but bigger, so we sqeezed it in and alotted a day to check it out. There were quite a few sights to explore in and around Hue, but lack of time and torrential downpours restricted us to one- The Ancient Citadel, where we explored some interesting buildings & temples, but overall weren't all that impressed. Perhaps hiring a guide would have made a difference here. From there we jumped on a trishaw to get a quick peek in at the local market before boarding yet another overnight bus. A tip for those thinking of visiting Hue- give yourself more than a day, there are many sights to see ranging from Perfume river cruises, to ancient tombs, pagodas and even natural springs.
and off we went, on another overnight...next stop Nihn Bihn!