A Patriotic Fourth

Fourth of July-a day for family, BBQ, fireworks, and a beer or two. When in the middle of Vietnam, you have to get a little creative in your celebration, but with a few other Americans, some willing-to-celebrate Brits, and a gorgeous beach to spend the day, its just like at home.

We were in Hoi An, a quaint beachside place most famous for it's tailor shops, friendly locals,



Beautiful temples,


And it's location at the end of the Thu Bon River, leading right into the South China Sea.





We started the day by renting bikes, to casually meander the UNESCO protected streets. Each corner offered charm and character








We went to the 'locals' beach, An Bang, a mere 2.5 km bike ride outside of town, that was nearly empty when we arrived.





After settling in, we started to look for the proper Fourth of July grub. We grabbed a watermelon from the market in town before we left, as no 4th is complete without some crisp watermelon to sink your teeth into



When we needed more food, street carts came right along the beach, complete with butane burners to cook you their foods.


This cart had a hotdog like skewer, which seemed appropriate for the 4th. It had its Vietnam twist though- slathered with oyster and chili sauce, and served with fish balls.


The cart also dished up a corn salad, but again, with Vietnam flare with chili a sauce and dried shrimp.


After a satisfying meal and swim, we sunk in to watch our firework show-the sunset.



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As the sun had been setting the locals came out to play and the beach filled with people-bringing their blankets and setting up picnics.



Though they didn't realize they really made the Fourth even more special for the few of us celebrating on the beach