It’s official: Hoi An is my favorite place in Vietnam. There really is no competition. While I loved trekking in Sapa, this charming town and the unbelievably green countryside surrounding it has completely won my heart.

Of course, that may have something to do with the fact that I’ve befriended a local named Bong, who ended up taking me 40 km outside Hoi An to meet her family yesterday. I spent the day checking out her farm, playing with her adorable niece and nephew, and cooking with her and her mom. Today she’s invited me to two end-of-year parties for Tet, the Vietnamese New Year and biggest holiday in the country. Bong, her friends and family have been so incredibly kind and welcoming, I’m now convinced this country is home to some of the nicest people in the whole freaking world!

Sadly, I leave tomorrow to head back to Hanoi to pick up my new passport, and then a few days later I’m off to Bali to meet up with my brother Nick. I’ve already promised Bong I’ll return soon, and I can’t wait to get back to Vietnam to see the rest of it. I think a change in itinerary may be in order…

Have a fantastic week everyone!

Inside the Forbidden Palace in Hue.

Hoi An is famous for it’s lanterns. At night, the town is lit up thousands of them!

Impossibly green. That is the only way to describe the countryside outside of Hoi An.

My view from the back of Bong’s motorbike.