Family Adventure in Hoi An's Ancient Charm

Illuminating Experiences in Hoi An

Today was a vibrant exploration of Hoi An's cultural heart. From crafting our own lanterns to wandering the ancient streets and indulging in the local cuisine, every moment felt like stepping deeper into the soul of this enchanting town. It’s days like these that remind me why I love sharing these adventures with my family.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Orivy Hoi An Local Food Restaurant. It was a charming start, with the family-run restaurant offering a taste of authentic Vietnamese morning flavors. Saoirse was particularly excited about trying Banh Xeo, while Hans enjoyed a traditional Cao Lau. I opted for the classic Pho, a flavorful noodle soup that never fails to invigorate. The atmosphere was cozy, and it felt like a true local experience.


Discover the rich flavors of Vietnam at Orivy Hoi An Local Food Restaurant—an unforgettable culinary experience in the heart of Hoi An.

After breakfast, we strolled through the ancient streets of Phố cổ Hội An. The town was buzzing with activity, and the colorful architecture never ceased to amaze me. The kids were fascinated by the intricate details of the old buildings, and Hans, ever the history enthusiast, was in his element. We explored the various Hội Quán (assembly halls), each with its own unique charm and history. The Phuc Kien Assembly Hall was especially impressive, with its ornate decorations and serene ambiance.


Discover the charm of Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture.

The true essence of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in creating shared memories that bind us closer together.

Our main activity for the day was a lantern making class. We found a cozy workshop tucked away in a side street, filled with colorful silks and bamboo frames. The class began with a warm welcome of herbal tea and traditional music. The instructor shared the history of Hoi An lanterns and how they symbolize luck, happiness, and wealth. Both Saoirse and I chose vibrant fabrics to create our own lanterns, while Hans, in his typical fashion, opted for a more traditional design. The process was surprisingly therapeutic, and we all felt a sense of accomplishment as we carefully crafted our lanterns. Saoirse was so proud of her creation, she insisted on carrying it around for the rest of the day.


Experience the art of Vietnamese lantern making in Hoi An, where tradition and creativity illuminate your journey.

For lunch, we ventured to Madam Kieu Vietnamese Restaurant. The restaurant is ideally located on lantern street, offering stunning views of the Thu Bon River. We savored a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including Hoi An beef pho, grilled beef with leaves, and shrimp and meat spring rolls. Saoirse particularly enjoyed the shrimp and meat spring rolls, while Hans was impressed by the Hoi An beef pho. The flavors were vibrant, and the ingredients were incredibly fresh.


Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Madam Kieu Restaurant in Hội An – a delightful fusion of flavors and culture awaits every visitor.

In the afternoon, we explored Hoi An Old Town (Shopping Street). The streets were lined with shops selling everything from silk clothing to handcrafted souvenirs. Saoirse was on the lookout for a traditional Vietnamese dress, while Hans was interested in finding a local artisan selling handmade leather goods. I enjoyed browsing the various art galleries and souvenir shops, picking up a few small mementos to remind us of our trip.


Experience the enchanting blend of history and culture at Hoi An Old Town Shopping Street, a vibrant hub of artisan shops and local cuisine.

As evening approached, we found ourselves drawn to the Hoi An Lantern Festival. Luckily, today, November 3rd, coincides with the full moon, making it a particularly special occasion. The town was transformed into a magical wonderland, illuminated by thousands of colorful lanterns. We purchased a few paper lanterns and released them onto the river, making wishes for the future. The atmosphere was electric, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the festivities.

For dinner, we decided to try something different and went to MIX Greek Restaurant Hoi An. It was a delightful change of pace, with the restaurant offering a taste of authentic Greek cuisine. Hans and I shared the mixed dips, while Saoirse opted for the beef souvlaki. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was cozy and inviting. We ended the meal with a complimentary chocolate cookie cake, a sweet treat that Saoirse thoroughly enjoyed.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at MIX Greek Restaurant in Hoi An – where Mediterranean flavors meet Vietnamese hospitality.

As we walked back to Hadana Boutique Resort Hoi An (former Belle Maison Hadana Hoi An), hand in hand, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experiences we shared today. Hoi An has a way of weaving its magic, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Tomorrow, we’re planning to explore the natural beauty surrounding Hoi An with a Hoi An Ecotour and relax at Cua Dai Beach [Cua Dai Beach]. I’m also hoping to check out The Deck Hoi An for a relaxing evening drink [Cua Dai Beach].


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

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” – St. Augustine