Little Red Dot Press - Hoi An Walkabout 08 Dec 2006

Some correction to be called for. The Editor was feverish and had to hold back the movement from Nha Trang on 05th evening. The available train ride was on the 7th morning. I apologise for the mix-up in dates. The affected edition dates have been amended accordingly.
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Today (o8 Dec) was much taken up by walking, shooting, recce-ing, more shooting and walking.

Took upon the recommended route by the guide book L.P. The route took me through most of the ancient sites such as
- the historical house at 77;
- Museum of Trading Ceramics;
- Fujian Hui Guan, Teochew Hui Guan, Canton Hui Guan;

Besides the (sometimes boring) view, the old houses have been retro-fit interior-wise for businesses; such as souvenir shops, tailor shops, cobbler shops, eateries etc.

What was most outstanding for their conservation was that the EXTERIORS were hardly touched. Unlike those in Singapore which were refurbished, these buildings were still very much antiquated apart from a consistent yellow being splashed across almost every building.

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The afternoon was spent in the tailor's shop. Here the editor was being 'looked' upon, front and back by the amiable tailor.

"Hmm.. no good.. must change here, here and here.." he rattled off to his staff. I felt like an exhibit in the museum, occasionally forced to lift up this hand, that hand, turn around. I was glad when the 'show' was over.

Besides spending time at the tailor, scouting around for a good art work was on my agenda. Actually, the Editor was never much an art connoisseur. However the artwork these people have were simply too much to be left ignored.

After much wandering and haggling, the Editor finally decided on one and happily made his payment and went back for a quick shower before dinner.

Flight arrangements were made from Danang to HCM city. The bus route and train route would take more than half a day to reach. I could not bear to sit through 20 odd hours to get my bum to my final stop. The flight is the best option.

So much for now. HCM City, I said I'll be back!