Date: Dec. 7-11, 2008
Reviewer: Trip Advisor Member, Virginia, USA
This was a trip with my daughter who works in Singapore, just a "girls'" adventure. She has always wanted to go to Hoi An and so after I read about it, I wanted to share it with her. She booked the accomodations. What a special treat the Ha An Hotel turned out to be for our 4 night stay.
The hotel sent a car to pick us up in Danang at the airport. It was after dark and raining; and the 35 minute trip in the taxi seemed a bit dreary. But when we arrived, we were greeted at the gate with umbrellas and help with our luggage. Everyone was so nice and accommodating But when we got to our room, we were not really prepared for the beautiful way that flowers were everywhere, rose petals on the pillows and beds, a vase of 18 fresh long-stemmed roses, flowers in the bath and shower. Everything was immaculately clean and well decorated. The room was small, but had everything we needed; and they moved the twin beds apart and put the table in between to give us some space. The mini-bar was well stocked and there were loads of DVD movies to view.
The dining room was still open when we checked in, so we ate dinner which was wonderful, and we ended up eating there another night Prices were very reasonable. The complimentary breakfast buffet, each morning was delicious, especially the omelets and fresh mango lassi. The staff quickly learns each guest's likes and dislikes and goes out of their way to prepare everything to your taste before you even ask.
Everyone in reception was most helpful in directing us to anything we needed. The location makes it accessible to the entire village and we were able to walk everywhere. The market is only 2 blocks away, as is the riverfront. They free bikes were great to use for exploring.
We were lucky enough to be there for the Legendary Lantern Festival which is held on the night of the full moon each month. All the shops and restaurants turn out their lights and decorate with silk lanterns inside and out. No cars are allowed in the area, so you can walk everywhere. Paper lanterns with candles are floated down the river in honor of their ancestors. And on every street corner is some ancient traditional activity, music or theatrical presentation, games (adult and childrens's), art and poetry readings. It is a rare treat not to be missed. My daughter is a photographer by profession, and got some amazing pictures.
We also took a Vietnamese cooking class at the Red Bridge Restaurant. We took the half day class for only $20 each and got to go to the market to learn about the selection of foods and
utensils. Then we took a short boat trip to the lovely restaurant which is downriver on the water, A chef who spoke perfect English, was knowledgable and hilarious explained and demonstrated each dish we were to prepare. Then we each went to our cook station and duplicated what we had learned. When we had made at least 5 or 6 courses, we carried them to the restaurant outdoor dining room and had a magnificent feast for lunch. We met at least 10 others all from different parts of the world who all enjoyed the class as much as we did.
We also had clothes made at Yaly Coutour and were most pleased with the price and results. My daughter had brought 3 of her favorite blouses and they made 2 of each in beautiful fabrics which she selected. The fit was perfect. I wished I had also brought some of my favorites to duplicate.
Don't miss the Reaching Out craft shop which a showcase of handicrafts handmade by disabled craftspeople in Vietnam. They made 2 darling silk dresses for for only $10 each for my 4 year old granddaughter in 1 day, after I picked out a style and the fabric. Everything they have is hard to resist.
All the restaurants were good, and very reasonably priced. The foods were all tasty, especially the soups. Neither of us had any problems, although we ate all the traditional foods.
We probably could not have enjoyed our stay in Hoi An, though, if the Ha An Hotel had not been so conveniently located and such a rare oasis right in the midst of all the activity. My daughter cannot wait to return to share it with her husband.