14th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Travel
Exploring the charming town of Hoi An and its unique boats on the Thu Bon River , Vietnam

While traveling in Vietnam, you feel like you’re being watched by the boats’ painted eyes. Some believe the extra pair of eyes bring good luck and fortune; others say they scare off the water monsters; and some also say that their boats, like themselves, are beings with souls that must “see” the way in order to steer out of danger and bring themselves back to port safely. Whatever the reason may be, these eyes surely add a lot of character, charm, and uniqueness to each boat.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 10.2015
Date Uploaded: 07.2016
Photo Location: Hoi An, Vietnam
Camera: NIKON D7200
Copyright: © Flora Saperstein