The peak summer travel season is upon us, and the ancient bower of bougainvillea here has turned the hundreds of meters of road into a stunning attraction for young people to visit and snap photos.
The vibrant bougainvillea clusters stand out against the backdrop of lush coconut groves, creating a peaceful and impressive natural landscape that leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
Images captured by anhmy. Eva.vn
According to historical records, in 1929, a French priest named Paul Maheu discovered the rare tranquility of this land and decided to build a treatment center for leprosy patients called Laproserie de Quy Hoa Hospital. In 1932, the hospital was rebuilt by Charles Antoine and Ozithe, and it included a long-term residential area for patients. In addition to the hospital, the Quy Hoa compound also housed a church, accommodations for nuns, and over 200 homes for leprosy patients.
In 1936, the poet Han Mac Tu, who suffered from leprosy, came to Quy Hoa to spend his final years receiving treatment and writing poetry. During his time there, he created some of his most renowned works, including “Crazy Poetry,” “Fragrant Soul,” “Bitter Honey,” and “Frenzied Blood and Crazy Soul.”
For admirers of Han Mac Tu’s poetry, a visit to Quy Hoa is a must. People who appreciate his talent, mourn his tragic life, or find solace and empathy in his words come to pay their respects and walk the “firecracker bougainvillea road” in his memory.
Today, the Quy Hoa leprosy village is home to about 250 households and has become a unique and fascinating destination for travelers. The village is inhabited by generations of people who have lived with leprosy for a long time, preserving most of the Gothic architecture from the French colonial era, with no new or tall buildings.
The blend of architecture, culture, and history etched into the walls of each weathered home adds to the distinctiveness of the leprosy village, exuding a sense of nostalgic beauty.
Quy Hoa spans approximately 60 hectares and is nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains and lush greenery. It faces the peaceful ocean and is shaped like a crescent moon. From above, the village resembles a delicate eyelash curve along the coastline, with quaint houses peeking out from gardens and coconut groves, accentuated by tall casuarina trees, golden sand, and a vibrant palette of blooming flowers.
Quy Hoa exudes a serene and subtle beauty, attracting those seeking a tranquil escape to find solace for their souls. Strolling under the vibrant bougainvillea canopy and meandering through the cool shade of coconut trees, visitors often encounter friendly and affectionate locals. It is in these moments of connection that one discovers how happiness can spring from life’s simplest pleasures, embracing a slower pace and a deeper appreciation for nature and compassion.
From now until 2025, the city of Quy Nhon aims to develop the Quy Hoa valley into a unique spiritual, cultural, and architectural destination. Each home will serve as an architectural museum, and every resident will become a tourism ambassador, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.
Meanwhile, in the ancient town of Hoi An, visitors are treated to a vibrant display of bougainvillea along its streets.
As you wander through the streets of Hoi An, you’ll find bougainvillea everywhere. From the intersection of Tran Phu and Le Loi to the ancient tiled roofs of temples and pagodas, from café courtyards to the vibrant hues peeking through mythical alleys, the flowers add a touch of color and life to the ancient town.
Local author Dinh Le Vu describes the bougainvillea as delicate as butterfly wings, blooming in clusters of purple, pink, white, orange, and red, as if to soothe the scorching summer heat. The hotter the sun, the more vibrant and resilient the flowers become.
“I don’t know when it started, but the bougainvillea trellises have become an integral part of the ancient town’s charm during the summer. Hoi An seems younger and more vibrant, thanks to the colorful bougainvillea, a simple yet magnificent touch,” says Vu.
The bougainvillea is at its most glorious bloom from mid-March to the end of July. The modest and pure beauty of these flowers captivates visitors exploring the ancient town.
Many young couples choose the bougainvillea-filled mornings in Hoi An to capture their pre-wedding photos, preserving the happiness and youthfulness of this special moment. As the sun rises, its rays filter through the leaves, creating the most romantic and magical lighting for photographs.
The vibrant hues of bougainvillea enhance the romantic and sentimental atmosphere of Hoi An’s ancient streets. Many couples rent bicycles to pedal through the town, capturing memorable photos amid the blooming flowers.
Meanwhile, groups of tourists explore Hoi An on foot, by cyclo, or by boat on the Hoai River, admiring the dreamy bougainvillea alongside the colorful lanterns. The red, pink, and orange flowers resemble special lanterns, evoking emotions of nostalgia and peace for this ancient town that visitors are reluctant to leave.
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