Hue to Hoi An Private Car Review: Hai Van Pass & City of Ghosts

Okay so, picture this: you’re in Hue, Vietnam, and you want to get to Hoi An. Sure, you could take a bus, but, really, where’s the fun in that? I mean, why not make the drive an adventure? That is why, for like your transportation between these two amazing cities, opting for a private car, particularly one that promises a route via the Hai Van Pass and a stop at the City of Ghosts (An Bang Cemetery), could be a very interesting experience, is it not?

Why Choose a Private Car? That is a Question!

Well, really, think about it. A private car, it is almost a ticket to freedom, isn’t it? So instead of being crammed onto a bus with, maybe, questionable air conditioning and a blaring Vietnamese pop soundtrack, you get, kind of, a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle all to yourself. Okay so, you also get a driver who, in a way, doubles as a local guide. Pretty cool, right? Anyway, you are able to stop wherever you want, spend as long as you want at each location, and, frankly, customize the itinerary to, like, your heart’s content. So, flexibility is, after all, the key here, basically.

The Hai Van Pass: Clouds, Curves, and Coastal Views

The Hai Van Pass, which kind of translates to “Ocean Cloud Pass,” well, honestly, lives up to its name. Okay so, the road winds its way up the mountains, and still, with every turn, arguably, you’re greeted with seriously more breathtaking views. Anyway, you have on one side, a steep drop to the coastline, which, you know, offers panoramic vistas of the East Sea. Actually, you get, kind of, clear days, you can see for miles and miles. Right, and so, the other side is a wall of lush greenery. Maybe it seems like a tropical jungle, doesn’t it?

Basically, taking the Hai Van Pass by private car, is almost like having a personal photographer, isn’t it? I mean, that is so because you can tell your driver to stop at any of the scenic viewpoints for a quick photo session. So, often these spots are perfect for capturing photos of, like your winding road itself, which kind of snake it’s way along the mountainside. Right, you can bring like a little picnic lunch too!

An Bang Cemetery: The City of Ghosts

Still, An Bang Cemetery, also known as the City of Ghosts, is that not, well, really, a sight to behold. Frankly, that’s a large coastal area dotted with, arguably, the incredibly elaborate tombs and mausoleums of, well, local fishermen and their families. Arguably, you could easily be driving by!

Okay so, after the Vietnam War, the local people, particularly those involved in the fishing industry, began to experience newfound wealth, that is true, right? Frankly, this prosperity actually translated into constructing grandiose resting places for, maybe, their ancestors, and anyway, that’s the story of today. Still, each tomb is, arguably, unique, and I mean they are crafted with, sometimes, bright colors, complicated mosaics, and like depictions of dragons, phoenixes, and other mythological creatures. After all, they want to be the richest!

Actually, walking through this “city,” feels a bit surreal. It is really because the sheer scale and extravagance of the tombs is something, you know, you have to see to really believe. Still, some structures look like mini-temples, while other ones may resemble like fancy villas. Also, the level of detail, like in the artwork and architecture is, sometimes, quite impressive.

The Drive Itself: What to Expect

Right, the drive from Hue to Hoi An, which includes the Hai Van Pass and a stop at An Bang Cemetery, usually lasts between four to six hours, you see? Seriously, that very much depends on, sometimes, traffic, how long you want to spend at each stop, and basically, if you have many detours. Obviously, most drivers, also speak at least some English, right? In other words, communicating your preferences and interests should be fine. It all matters!

The cars themselves are, mostly, modern and equipped with air conditioning, you know. Like, you may want to confirm the specific vehicle model with the private car company before booking. You should think!

Seriously, your driver will, arguably, pick you up directly from your hotel in Hue, that is if you so choose, anyway. Still, after, like, your visit to An Bang Cemetery and your drive over the Hai Van Pass, really, you’ll be dropped off right at your hotel in Hoi An. It can be arranged after all.

Tips for Booking Your Private Car

Okay so, here’s a few things to think about when booking your private car from Hue to Hoi An: You know, and stuff like comparing prices from, maybe, various companies to ensure you’re getting a, arguably, good deal. Really, reading reviews from other travelers, is probably important, if you think, right? And also you will, often, be booking in advance, is that not, and specially if you are travelling during peak season. By booking in advance, the better. That is if your are thinking about travelling anyway.

Okay so, checking what is included in the price is also helpful, right? Maybe stuff like, “Are the entrance fees to An Bang Cemetery covered? Is bottled water provided?”.

Seriously, clarifying the cancellation policy is helpful, as with other travelling tips. Especially, that can keep like your money protected!

Is It Worth It? Let’s Be Real!

You see, taking a private car from Hue to Hoi An via the Hai Van Pass and the City of Ghosts is, you know, honestly, a truly unforgettable experience. That is true and really important. By the way, sure, it’s perhaps, a bit more expensive than, let’s say, taking a bus. Really, you’re paying for, basically, the convenience, the flexibility, and just the sheer experience of, well, travelling in style. And so, if you want to see Vietnam, then consider this trip as one of the best options!