Family Adventure in Hoi An's Ancient Charm

Embracing Hoi An's Natural Side

Today was a welcome change of pace from the historical explorations of the past few days. We traded ancient streets for lush landscapes and the calming rhythm of the river, offering a fresh perspective on Hoi An's charm. It was a day filled with new experiences, from basket boat rides to the soft sands of the beach – a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation that reminded me why I love travelling with my family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Song Thanh Riverside Restaurant. The riverside setting was just beautiful, even in the morning light. We enjoyed some traditional Vietnamese dishes, fueling up for our ecotour. Saoirse was particularly excited about trying a new type of noodle soup, while Hans enjoyed a strong Vietnamese coffee. I savoured the fresh fruit, a delightful mix of the familiar and the exotic. It was the perfect start to a day promising a deeper connection with nature.


Experience authentic Vietnamese flavors at Song Thanh Riverside Restaurant while enjoying breathtaking riverside views in Hội An.

After breakfast, we set off for our Hoi An Ecotour. The tour took us away from the bustling town center and into the serene countryside. We learned about local farming practices and even had a chance to try our hand at some traditional techniques. Saoirse was fascinated by the water buffalo, and Hans, ever the engineer, was intrigued by the irrigation systems. The highlight of the morning was definitely the basket boat ride. These unique, round boats are a quintessential part of Vietnamese fishing culture, and navigating the narrow waterways was both fun and a little bit challenging. Our guide shared stories about the local fishermen and their way of life, giving us a glimpse into the community's deep connection with the river. We even saw some locals demonstrating impressive spinning techniques with the boats, which was quite a sight to behold!


Explore the serene landscapes of Hoi An Ecotour, where nature and culture harmoniously unite for an unforgettable travel experience.

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.

Lunch was at SECRET GARDEN HOIAN, a restaurant that truly lives up to its name. Tucked away down a narrow alley, it opened into a tranquil oasis filled with lush greenery and soft lighting. The food was delicious – we shared a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes, each bursting with flavour. Saoirse particularly enjoyed the spring rolls, while Hans was a big fan of the Cao Lau, a local noodle specialty. I loved the ambiance of the restaurant; it felt like we were dining in a secret hideaway.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a serene garden setting at Secret Garden Hoi An, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we headed to Cua Dai Beach. Despite November being the transition from the wet to dry season, the weather was pleasant, with warm sunshine and a gentle breeze. The beach was clean and inviting, and the water was perfect for a swim. Saoirse spent hours building sandcastles, while Hans and I relaxed on the beach, soaking up the sun. It was the perfect opportunity to unwind and enjoy some quality family time. I even managed to finish a chapter of my book, a rare treat amidst our busy travel schedule.


Discover the tranquil charm of Cua Dai Beach, where soft sands and azure waters create the perfect getaway in Hoi An, Vietnam.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to The Deck Hoi An for a pre-dinner drink. This rooftop bar offers stunning panoramic views of Hoi An and the Thu Bon River. We sipped on cocktails as we watched the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant colours. Saoirse enjoyed a refreshing fruit juice, feeling very grown-up as she sat with us, admiring the view. The atmosphere was relaxed and sophisticated, a perfect way to end a day of adventure and relaxation.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at The Deck Hoi An, a top bar destination for tourists in Vietnam's enchanting town.

For dinner, we chose Lim Dining Room, drawn in by its promise of Italian-inspired cuisine. The restaurant was slightly more upscale than our usual choices, but we decided to treat ourselves. The food was exquisite – Hans and I shared a pizza and pasta, while Saoirse enjoyed a simple but delicious margherita pizza. It was a delightful change from the Vietnamese cuisine we had been enjoying, and a reminder of our life back in Berlin.


Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at Lim Dining Room in Hội An's enchanting Old Town—where tradition meets taste.

As we walked back to our hotel, the Hadana Boutique Resort HoiAn (former Belle Maison Hadana HoiAn), the streets of Hoi An were alive with the glow of lanterns. The air was filled with the sounds of music and laughter, a vibrant reminder of the town's unique charm. We stopped to admire the colourful displays, and Saoirse even convinced us to buy her a small lantern as a souvenir. It was the perfect end to a day that had taken us from the tranquil countryside to the bustling beach and back again.


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

Reflecting on the day, I feel grateful for the opportunity to experience Hoi An's diverse offerings. From the eco-tour to the beach and the delicious meals, it was a day that catered to all our interests and allowed us to connect with each other and with the local culture. Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into Hoi An's cultural heritage with visits to the Museum of Folk Culture and the Hoi An Handicraft Village. I'm particularly excited to see the local artisans at work and learn more about their traditional crafts. But for now, I'm content to savour the memories of today, a day of eco-adventures and coastal relaxation that reminded me of the simple joys of family travel.

It's funny how travel can surprise you. I came to Hoi An expecting to be captivated by its history and architecture, but I didn't anticipate falling in love with its natural beauty. The ecotour was a revelation, showcasing a side of Vietnam that I hadn't fully appreciated before. And the beach, well, it was just the perfect dose of relaxation that we all needed. I'm reminded of something my grandmother used to say:

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

And while our day wasn't exactly a climb, it was a journey of discovery that led us to some truly rewarding experiences. I'm eager to see what tomorrow brings, but for now, I'm content to drift off to sleep with the sound of the river in my ears and the warmth of the sun on my skin.