We had a great travel day today. It all started with having a great Pho breakfast, packing, and then Jackson and I headed over to our favorite Banh Mi shop to get some sandwiches to go. I wasn’t sure they’d be open at 9:30am, but I shouldn’t have worried. While waiting for the sandwiches, we chatted the owner up & told him we were going to Hoi An and he grinned and said I must try these two other Banh Mi shops in Hoi An and gave us the names! I love getting tips like this. The 3 sandwiches were 75,000 dong or almost $4 total ;-).
To-go box in hand, we made it to the Hanoi airport with time to spare – I sure do miss the self-check kiosks that litter the US airports. Standing in line is not my favorite pastime.
We made it to our homestay – yet another charming little boutique hotel Michelle has managed to research & book. These are so much cheaper than normal hotels, and being in a room in a house has a nice appeal. We were spoiled in Hanoi where the shower was completely separate from the toilet. I’m not sure I’m going to get used to that, but oh well, small price to pay for a small price.
Hoi An is surrounded by rivers and it’s a bunch of small shops / restaurants that are all so colorful – and they limit traffic to a single road, so it’s nice just to wander without having to constantly hear horns or dodge scooters. Tons of shops & restaurants.
We made it over to one of the Banh Mi shops we were recommended for a late lunch and it was Awesome. Even better than Hanoi. Fresh veggies. A little bit of mint can really add a special touch.
We had a rather pedestrian dinner on a recommendation from our hotel staff – won’t be asking her again. Resting & tomorrow we’re just going to loiter about Hoi An, take in a few museums and sites.
millerpdx 