Measure twice, cut once

The last few days for us has been somewhat hectic, yet relaxing. We're in Hoi An, Vietnam...aka tailoring capital of the country! Hoi An was a sleepy little town until 1992, when it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Especially in the Old Town, the historic houses, alleyways, and silk lanterns (especially when lit up at night) makes it ooze with kitschy Asian charm. 

For many tourists, this is exactly the kind of place they imagine Asia to be, and so flock here by the thousands. The locals, of course, take advantage of this opportunity by selling itself as THE place in Vietnam to get clothes and all the fixings made to measure. You can't walk 10 steps without seeing a tailoring shop, a shoe shop, a souvenir shop, or anything else you can purchase…they try to sell you everything here! Needless to say, it was only a matter of time before we were sucked into the madness.

The first day we arrived, we did our research and read some reviews on shops that people have recommended. We spent that day darting in and out of tailor shops comparing prices and fabrics. It didn’t take too long before we had ladies chirping over us in Vietnamese about our measurements and adjusting the fit. Let me tell you, it’s addictive. The whole process is quite fun. They take your measurements, you go for a few fittings, and along the way, you’re tempted to buy an extra pair of pants, and a tie, and shoes, and maybe a nice coat to go along with it. Then you justify the whole thing by converting it back to Canadian dollars and telling yourself that you could never get the same kind of deal back home.

Kevin getting measured up

We’ve been here for 4 days now, and we’re gonna be leaving Hoi An with (are you ready for it?) for Kevin: 3 suits, 4 shirts, 1 pair of pants, a pair of shoes, a coat, and 3 ties. For me: a blazer, 1 pair of dress pants, 1 pair of jeans, a dress, 2 shirts, and 3 pairs of shoes. It’s been a merry Christmas indeed.

Speaking of Christmas, there’s not much festive mood here except for some cafes playing Christmas carols, and the odd Vietnamese kids who run around with Santa costumes on. Apparently, that’s how it goes down here. It’s a bummer that we can’t spend this time with our family and friends, but we’re thinking about you guys everyday. Hope everyone has a great holiday season filled with warmth and laughter.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Christmas Eve in Vietnam- it's the kids that dress up as Santa