Family Adventure in Hoi An's Ancient Charm

A Day Immersed in Hoi An's Soul

Today was all about diving deeper into the heart of Hoi An, exploring the traditions and crafts that make this ancient town so special. It's amazing how much history and culture is packed into such a small area, and I was eager to soak it all in with Hans and Saoirse. We were ready to discover more of what makes this Vietnamese gem so unique.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Flower Restaurant. The ambiance was as charming as the name suggests, with floral decor creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. I opted for a traditional Vietnamese coffee, strong and sweet, while Hans enjoyed a hearty bowl of Pho. Saoirse, ever adventurous, tried Banh Mi for the first time and declared it her new favorite breakfast. It's these simple moments, sharing new culinary experiences, that I cherish most when we travel as a family. Fuelled up and ready to explore, we set off to discover the cultural treasures of Hoi An.


Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Flower Restaurant in Hội An - a culinary haven that delights every visitor with its vibrant flavors.

Our first stop was the Museum of Folk Culture. Housed in a beautiful, traditional wooden building, the museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the daily life and cultural heritage of the local people. Saoirse was particularly intrigued by the displays of traditional costumes and musical instruments. As we wandered through the exhibits, I couldn't help but reflect on the importance of preserving these traditions for future generations. It’s so important to understand the roots of a place, to appreciate its unique story. The museum is home to 490 artifacts classified into folk visual arts, folk performing arts, traditional craft villages, and folk activities.

Culture is the widening of the mind and of the spirit.

Explore Vietnam's vibrant heritage at the Museum of Folk Culture in Hoi An, showcasing traditional crafts, folklore, and local customs.

After immersing ourselves in history, we ventured to the Hoi An Handicraft Village. This was an experience I was particularly looking forward to, as I've always admired the skill and artistry of traditional crafts. The village was a hub of activity, with artisans demonstrating their skills in pottery, weaving, and lantern making. Saoirse was captivated by a lantern maker who showed her how to create her own mini lantern. She meticulously chose her silk, carefully stretched it over the bamboo frame, and beamed with pride as she held up her finished creation. It was a wonderful opportunity for her to connect with the local culture in a hands-on way. I was impressed by the dedication of the artisans, who are committed to preserving these ancient crafts. It's inspiring to see how they blend tradition with innovation, creating beautiful and unique pieces that reflect the spirit of Hoi An.

Explore the enchanting Hoi An Handicraft Village, where traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship comes to life in a picturesque setting.
For lunch, we decided to try Tan Phat Restaurant, recommended for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and warm hospitality. We were greeted like old friends and seated at a cozy table overlooking a small garden. Hans and I shared a plate of Cao Lau, a local noodle dish with crispy pork and fresh greens, while Saoirse devoured a plate of spring rolls. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming. It felt like we were dining in someone's home, which added to the charm of the experience. I am always looking for places that make you feel like part of the family, and Tan Phat Restaurant did just that.


Experience the flavors of Vietnam at Tan Phat Restaurant in Hoi An – where tradition meets taste in a cozy setting.

After a satisfying lunch, we strolled through the streets of Hoi An, soaking in the atmosphere and popping into a few shops. We stopped by Sunday in Hoi An, a charming boutique that caught my eye with its unique collection of clothing and accessories. I found a beautiful hand-embroidered scarf, a perfect souvenir to remind me of our time in this enchanting town. Saoirse, of course, was more interested in the ice cream shop next door, and I happily obliged her with a scoop of coconut ice cream. It's all about balance, isn't it?


Explore Sunday in Hoi An, a charming gift shop in the heart of Old Town, offering unique souvenirs and handmade treasures from Vietnam.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Hai Cafe Courtyard BBQ & Restaurant for dinner. The restaurant is housed in a traditional Hoi An shop house, with a spacious garden courtyard that was beautifully lit with lanterns. The aroma of grilled meats filled the air, and we were eager to sample the local specialties. We ordered a selection of barbecued seafood and meats, served with fresh herbs and Vietnamese sauces. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was lively and festive. It was the perfect way to end our day of cultural exploration. The staff were very friendly and made us feel welcome.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Hai Cafe Courtyard BBQ & Restaurant in the heart of Hoi An Old Town, where flavors meet tradition.

Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Hoi An. From the ancient artifacts in the Museum of Folk Culture to the skilled artisans in the Handicraft Village, every experience deepened my understanding and appreciation of this unique town. It's a place where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly, creating a vibrant and captivating atmosphere. Tomorrow, we are planning a boat trip on the Thu Bon River and visiting the Old Town Lantern Boat. I am excited to see Hoi An from a different perspective and to learn more about the local way of life.

As we walked back to the Hadana Boutique Resort, hand in hand, I couldn't help but smile. Hoi An is a place that truly captures the heart, and I'm so grateful to be sharing this experience with my family. It's these moments of connection, discovery, and shared joy that make travel so meaningful. And as I drifted off to sleep, I knew that the memories we were creating in Hoi An would stay with us long after we returned to Berlin.


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