hoi an - eternal river of light

We wake up in Da Nang to an abundance of humidity, everything has a slight dewy quality. The breeze off the ocean is positively delightful as the heat drastically increases. 

Many of our fellow adventurers have eaten and manically dispersed into various parts of town. These moments are fast becoming a favorite as we subversively stay on board claiming the ship as our own. 

This afternoon is ideal for relaxing as tonight we have accepted an exclusive invitation to a surprise adventure in the nearby town of Hoi An.

A descending sun brings a fleet of unmarked vans, our convoy which weaves through mad traffic like a solid white line that becomes dotted. Motor scooters dominate piled with families. Traffic rules are followed like a suggestion and we nervously laugh at the creative driving.

Our first destination finds us and we follow our guide single file down a lantern-lit alley. At the end, we are greeted by the Hoai River, a carnival of lights with boats of all sizes racing in every direction. It’s beautifully mad grabbing everyone’s full attention. Hypnotized by the energy we somehow find ourselves aboard a small ship and each hand is filled. One with champagne, one with tapas-sized Bahn-mi. We join this beautiful madness, cruising around the harbor perched at the bow and wave at passing lights. They wave back. The river is filled with stars which turn out to be floating candles. I try not to blink, there is so much to drink in!

We are extracted from this liquid parade of color and once again our convoy awaits. The next destination finds us in a rice field for a lovely dining experience. A trio of instruments led by a violin summons all to gather, a tree frog has reserved our seats.

We share stories and laughs while breaking bread and the world becomes closer. We find other explorers from across the globe who do more than pay lip service to the goddess of adventure.

Now, tucked into our convoy we drift back to the port of Da Nang where Silver Dawn is waiting with a big ‘welcome home’ sign. 

Thank you Hoi An your river Hoai means always and eternal. I will always remember this magical night!