Trà Nhiêu Eco Village

This guide to Tra Nhieu Eco Village near Hoi An rides along in a round, tar-black basket boat still used by fishing families on the Thu Bon River, and tells the story locals tell about why it exists: a French colonial tax on every fishing vessel, and a workaround woven from bamboo, resin and buffalo dung. It traces the boat's construction, from woven bamboo frame to waterproof coating, and points to a 1924 photograph showing the same shape already in use. You'll watch a fisherman spin one in slow circles with a single oar to check crab traps hidden among the coconut roots along the bank.