Hoi An

Where to shoot

• Japanese Covered Bridge — a 16th-century covered footbridge linking the old Japanese and Chinese quarters, the town's most recognized landmark.
• Thu Bon River lantern boats — hire a small wooden boat at dusk to release floating paper lanterns onto the water as the riverside lights up.
• Custom tailoring — hundreds of tailor shops in the Ancient Town can produce a made-to-measure suit or dress within a day or two.
• My Son Sanctuary — a half-day trip to jungle-swallowed Hindu temple ruins built by the Champa kingdom between the 4th and 13th centuries.
• Japanese Covered Bridge — an ornate 18th-century covered bridge that is the town's emblem and best-loved landmark.
• Hoi An Ancient Town — vehicle-free streets of yellow shophouses and assembly halls, lit by lanterns at night.
• Thu Bon River — the riverfront where lantern light reflects on the water and small boats carry floating candles.
• An Bang Beach — a stretch of palm-backed sand a short ride from the old town, quiet at sunrise.

When to go

February to April for the driest weather and comfortable heat before the summer humidity sets in; the Full Moon Lantern Festival happens monthly regardless of season, so time a visit around the 14th lunar day if that's the draw.

What to eat

Cao lau (a Hoi An-specific noodle dish with pork and greens, made only with well water from the region) and banh mi are the two dishes to seek out, alongside the night market's grilled skewers and banana pancakes.

Where to stay

Base yourself walking distance from the Ancient Town's pedestrian core to be close to the lanterns after dark, or across the river in Cam Nam for a quieter, more local stay a short walk from the same lights.