Family Adventure in Hoi An's Ancient Charm

First Day in Fairytale Hoi An

After months of planning, we finally arrived in Hoi An, a place I’d dreamt of visiting for years. The promise of ancient streets, vibrant culture, and delicious food was almost too much to bear. Stepping out of our taxi, I was immediately struck by the balmy air and the gentle buzz of activity. This first day was all about immersing ourselves in the heart of Hoi An, and it certainly didn't disappoint.

The Hadana Boutique Resort Hoi An was everything we'd hoped for – a tranquil haven that still echoed the local charm.


Experience luxury and tranquility at Hadana Boutique Resort Hoi An, where comfort meets culture in Vietnam's charming ancient town.

After a quick freshening up, we were ready to dive headfirst into exploring Hoi An Ancient Town. The November air was warm and breezy, perfect for wandering, though I did make a mental note to buy some insect repellent; I’d forgotten to pack it, and the mosquitoes were already making themselves known. The temperature in Hoi An during November typically ranges from 23°C to 28°C during the day, and cools down to around 21°C at night. We were also fortunate to arrive during a period where rainfall is decreasing, though it's still advisable to have a light rain jacket handy.

Our first stop was, naturally, the heart of it all: Hoi An Ancient Town. The town was preparing for the monthly Lantern Festival, which was scheduled for November 3rd. The streets were already adorned with colourful lanterns, and the atmosphere was electric. Saoirse was particularly enchanted, her eyes wide with wonder as she took in the sights and sounds. The architecture, a mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French influences, was beautifully preserved, and every corner seemed to offer a new photo opportunity. I tried to capture the essence of the town, the vibrant colours and intricate details, but no photo could truly do it justice. It was something you had to experience firsthand.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are found not in grand monuments, but in the quiet corners of a town steeped in history.

For breakfast, we headed to Morning Glory Original.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Morning Glory Original in Hoi An – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

I had read so many rave reviews about it, and it certainly lived up to the hype. We sat at a table overlooking the street, soaking in the morning atmosphere. I opted for the *Cao lầu*, a local noodle dish, while Hans enjoyed a traditional *Banh Mi*. Saoirse, ever adventurous, tried the *white rose dumplings* and declared them delicious. The service was friendly and efficient, and the food was fresh and flavourful. It was the perfect way to start our day. The restaurant gets its name from the morning glory vegetable, also known as water spinach, which is a popular dish in Vietnam.

After breakfast, we strolled through the Ancient Town, admiring the historic houses and merchant shops. We stumbled upon Reaching Out Arts & Crafts, a shop that supports artisans with disabilities.


Discover unique handmade crafts and support local artisans at Reaching Out Arts & Crafts in Hội An, Vietnam.

I was immediately drawn in by the beautiful handmade jewelry, ceramics, and other crafts. Saoirse was fascinated by the story behind the shop, and we ended up buying a delicate silver lotus pendant as a souvenir. It felt good to support such a worthy cause while also acquiring a unique and meaningful memento of our trip. The staff was incredibly friendly, and we even got a tour of the workshop, where we saw the artisans at work. It was inspiring to see their dedication and skill.

Lunch was at Little Faifo Restaurant, a charming café in the heart of the Ancient Town.


Experience a delightful blend of Vietnamese and Indian cuisines at Little Faifo Restaurant in Hoi An's enchanting Old Town.

We sat on the balcony, enjoying the view of the bustling street below. I decided to try the *Banh Xeo*, a crispy Vietnamese pancake filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. Hans opted for the *Cao Lau* again, and Saoirse chose the chicken rice. The food was delicious, and the service was attentive. It was a perfect spot to relax and refuel before continuing our exploration. Little Faifo is known for its cozy atmosphere and authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

Our afternoon was dedicated to culture, with a visit to the Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum.


Explore the Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum in Hoi An, where stunning photography and rich cultural exhibits showcase Vietnam's diverse ethnic heritage.

This museum, founded by French photographer Réhahn Croquevielle, showcases the cultural diversity of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups through stunning photography and traditional costumes. I was deeply moved by the portraits, each telling a unique story of resilience and tradition. Saoirse was particularly interested in the traditional costumes, marveling at the intricate designs and vibrant colours. The museum is housed in a beautifully restored French colonial building, adding to the charm of the experience. The Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum is free to visit. The museum is a testament to Réhahn's dedication to preserving and celebrating Vietnamese culture.

As evening approached, we made our way to HOME Hoi An - HOME Vietnamese Restaurant for dinner.


Savor authentic Vietnamese flavors at HOME Hoi An - A culinary journey through tradition and taste in the heart of Ancient Town.

The restaurant is located in a traditional Vietnamese house, with a tranquil courtyard and elegant dining space. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the service was impeccable. We opted for a set menu, which included a variety of Hoi An specialties, such as *white rose dumplings*, *Cao Lau*, and grilled seafood. The food was exquisite, and the presentation was beautiful. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day. HOME Hoi An accommodates up to 148 guests.

As we strolled back to the Hadana Boutique Resort, the streets of Hoi An were bathed in the soft glow of lanterns. The air was filled with the sounds of music and laughter, and the atmosphere was magical. I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience, and I knew that this was just the beginning of our adventure. It was also the same day as Vietnam Cultural Heritage Day, adding more festivity to the ancient town.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to venture a little further afield with a Hoi An Village Experience and a visit to the Hidden Hammock Spot. I’m excited to see more of the countryside and experience a different side of Hoi An. Maybe we'll even find some more treasures to bring home with us, both tangible and in our memories. I'm also looking forward to trying Nhan's kitchen for breakfast, Pho Xua for lunch and Red Gecko Restaurant for dinner. And perhaps a nightcap at Soul Kitchen.