Hoi An, Danang and around

The city of Danang has no real charm and no sense of permanence but few cities in the world have such spectacular beaches on their doorstep, let alone three UNESCO World Heritage Sites - Hué, Hoi An and My Son - within a short drive. The ancient town of Hoi An (formerly Faifo) lies on the banks of the Thu Bon River. During its heyday 200 years ago, when trade with China and Japan flourished, it was a prosperous little port. Much of the merchants' wealth was spent on family chapels and Chinese clan houses which remain little altered today. The city of Hoi An is currently experiencing a revival: the river may be too shallow for shipping but it is perfect for tourist boats; the silk merchants may not export any produce but that's because everything they make leaves town on the backs of satisfied customers.