Family Adventure in Hoi An's Ancient Charm

Whispers of the Past, Glimmers of Gold

As our family adventure in Hoi An draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible tapestry of experiences we've woven together. Today was about soaking in the last drops of this ancient town's magic, discovering hidden corners, and savoring the unique flavors that have defined our journey. It's bittersweet, knowing our time here is ending, but I'm determined to make every moment count and take home memories that will last a lifetime.

Our final day in Hoi An began, as most mornings here do, with the gentle sounds of the town awakening. We strolled over to Tin Tin Restaurant-Bar for breakfast. The November air was already warm, hinting at another day of sunshine, though the forecast suggested we might see some rain later. I ordered a smoothie, while Hans opted for a traditional Vietnamese coffee, and Saoirse chose a juice. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere made it a perfect start to the day.

The beauty of travel isn't just in seeing new places, but in how those places change you.

Fueled up, we set off to delve deeper into Hoi An's history at the Museum of Sa Huynh Culture. This museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the Sa Huynh culture, which thrived in this region over 2,000 years ago. Saoirse was particularly fascinated by the burial jars and the intricate jewelry on display. It was a humbling experience to connect with a civilization that predates even the well-known trading port history of Hoi An. I found myself pondering the lives of these ancient inhabitants and their connection to the land we were now exploring. It’s amazing to think that thousands of years ago, people walked this very ground, leaving behind clues to their existence.


Discover the ancient Sa Huynh civilization at Hoi An’s Museum of Sa Huynh Culture, a treasure trove of historical artifacts and insights.

Leaving the museum, we wandered towards the iconic Hoi An Yellow Wall. This isn't just one wall, mind you, but rather the pervasive golden hue that adorns so many buildings in the ancient town. As Rehahn, the French photographer, said, Hoi An is more than just a city of yellow; it is a lively canvas that changes throughout the day. The November sun cast a warm glow, making the yellow walls even more vibrant. We strolled along the narrow alleys, snapping photos and soaking in the atmosphere. Saoirse, ever the budding photographer, found endless inspiration in the textures and colors. I must admit, even I couldn't resist striking a pose or two against the picturesque backdrop.


Explore the vibrant essence of Hoi An at the iconic Yellow Wall, a must-visit destination steeped in history and culture.

For lunch, we decided on Firefly Hoi An Restaurant & Bar, drawn in by its airy setting and colorful lanterns. The restaurant had a charming, ancient feel, perfectly matching Hoi An's aesthetic. Hans and I shared a plate of the chef's special noodles, while Saoirse opted for a pizza. The food was delicious, and the quick, effective service allowed us to maximize our time exploring.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Firefly Hoi An Restaurant & Bar - where every dish tells a story.

Our afternoon was dedicated to a quintessential Hoi An experience: shopping at the Hoi An Lantern Company. The shop was a riot of colors and shapes, with lanterns of every size imaginable. We watched artisans carefully crafting these delicate creations, their hands moving with practiced ease. Saoirse was captivated by the silk lanterns, marveling at how they glowed even when unlit. We ended up buying several lanterns to take home as souvenirs, each one a reminder of our time in this enchanting town. As we selected our lanterns, I couldn't help but think of the Hoi An Lantern Festival, a vibrant celebration of Vietnamese culture. Although we weren't here for the full moon, the lanterns themselves evoked the magic of those illuminated nights.


Explore the enchanting Hội An Lantern Company, where tradition meets artistry in handcrafted lanterns that illuminate the culture of Vietnam.

As the day wound down, we treated ourselves to a final dinner at Lim Dining Room. This restaurant offered a slightly higher-end experience with delicious Italian-inspired food. We enjoyed crispy pizzas and perfectly cooked pasta, a delightful change of pace from our usual Vietnamese fare. It was a lovely way to celebrate our last evening in Hoi An, savoring good food and good company.


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

Looking back on our time in Hoi An, I'm filled with gratitude for the experiences we've shared as a family. We've explored ancient temples, wandered through bustling markets, learned about local crafts, and savored the unique flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. Hoi An has a way of slowing you down, of encouraging you to appreciate the simple things in life. I’ve always believed that travel broadens the mind, and this trip has certainly been a testament to that. From the bustling streets to the serene countryside, every corner of this town has offered a new perspective, a new story to tell. As an ESL teacher, I'm particularly drawn to the way language and culture intertwine, shaping our understanding of the world. Here in Hoi An, I've seen firsthand how cultural exchange has shaped the town's identity, creating a unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and European influences. It's a reminder that our world is a rich tapestry, woven together by countless threads of history, tradition, and human connection. And as we prepare to leave, I know that we'll carry a piece of Hoi An with us, a golden memory that will continue to inspire and enrich our lives.

Tomorrow, we bid farewell to Hoi An, taking with us a treasure trove of memories. While our adventure here concludes, the journey continues, and I'm excited to see what awaits us in the next chapter. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with Hans and Saoirse, creating memories that will bind us together for years to come.

As I sit here, penning these final thoughts, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Hoi An has exceeded all my expectations, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It's a place that has captured my heart, and I know that I'll carry its golden glow with me wherever I go. And as we pack our bags and prepare for our journey home, I'm already dreaming of our next adventure, wherever that may be. Perhaps we’ll explore more of Vietnam, venturing north to Hanoi or south to Ho Chi Minh City. Or maybe we’ll set our sights on a completely different corner of the world, eager to discover new cultures and create new memories. Whatever the future holds, I know that our travels will continue to shape us, to challenge us, and to inspire us to live life to the fullest.

Goodnight from Hoi An.