Tailors of Hoi An

This morning was spent on Da Nang beach before check-out. The beach was calm with a gentle breeze, few people around and some locals fishing in Vietnamese basket boats. We packed our bags, got on our trusty scooter and left for the smaller city of Hoi An, a UNESCO world heritage site, about 40 minutes south of Da Nang.

This time we checked into a homestay (fewer than five rooms) and the host was very welcoming on arrival. Arriving early the room was being tidied so the host sat us down and went through local activities and things to do. Soon after we walked to Hoi An old town which has both Chinese and Japanese influence. The streets are pedestrianised and full of colour with bright lanterns hanging above. However what really stands out are the number of tailors around. Hoi An has hundreds of tailor shops, most in the old town, and they are absolutely everywhere often filing entire streets. They appear to make anything from fabric or leather; suits, dresses, trousers, shoes, bags, wallets etc. We shortlisted some of the highest rated tailors and went in for a chat about what they could offer. Sure enough all could make everything we wanted so we decided to go with the tailors that offered the best service, best materials and gave us the best overall feel.

I went for two 3-piece full cashmere suits and Jess went for a few tailored dresses and blazers. Each 3-piece tailored suit, tailored shirt and tie cost £115 in the end… not bad. After getting measured up we were told to come back for the first fitting the following day. Looking forward to this!

While there I thought I’d also ask if they could repair my broken sandals. They couldn’t but said if I leave the sandals with them, they’ll sort it with another shoe shop. This would cost £2-£4 apparently.

We ended the evening walking over the glowing bridge along the river which was filled with brightly lit boats and lanterns floating along in the breeze. Again, the photos just don’t do it justice but it was an amazing sight while listening to live music and drinking cocktails.Read more