Family Adventure in Hoi An's Ancient Charm

Finding Peace and Authentic Tastes in Hoi An

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the vibrant energy of local life with moments of serene escape. It’s amazing how a single day can encapsulate so much of what makes Hoi An special. From exploring a traditional village to relaxing in a Hidden Hammock Spot, and of course, indulging in the local cuisine, today was a feast for the senses.


Unwind in a natural paradise at Hidden Hammock Spot, your serene escape in the heart of Hội An, Vietnam, surrounded by lush landscapes and tranquil vibes.

Our morning began with a delightful breakfast at Nhan's Kitchen. Hans and Saoirse were particularly excited to try some authentic Vietnamese dishes, and I was eager to revisit a few of my favorites. The charming atmosphere and friendly staff made it the perfect start to our day. I opted for the lemongrass eggplant, a dish I had heard so much about, and it truly lived up to the hype. The explosion of flavors was incredible, a perfect blend of savory and tangy that left me wanting more. Hans enjoyed a hearty bowl of pho, while Saoirse, ever the adventurous one, tried the braised tofu in a clay pot. We all agreed that Nhan's Kitchen was a culinary gem, a place where you could taste the heart of Vietnamese hospitality.


Experience authentic Vietnamese flavors at Nhan's Kitchen in Hoi An – where every dish tells a story.

“Sometimes, the most memorable experiences are found in the simplest moments, like sharing a delicious meal with loved ones in a faraway land.”

After breakfast, we set out for the Hoi An Village Experience. We wanted to immerse ourselves in the local culture, and this seemed like the perfect opportunity. The village was a short drive from our resort, and as we arrived, we were greeted by the sights and sounds of rural Vietnamese life. We wandered through the narrow streets, observing the locals going about their daily routines. We saw farmers tending to their rice paddies, artisans crafting intricate lanterns, and fishermen casting their nets in the river. Saoirse was particularly fascinated by the water buffalos, creatures she had only ever seen in books. I loved seeing her so engaged, asking questions and soaking in the atmosphere.


Experience the authentic charm of rural Vietnam at the Hoi An Village Experience, where tradition and culture come alive in a stunning natural setting.

One of the highlights of the village experience was learning about traditional farming techniques. We even got a chance to try our hand at plowing the fields with a water buffalo, which was much harder than it looked! Hans, with his sturdy German build, managed to make a decent go of it, while Saoirse and I mostly just giggled and tried to keep up. It was a humbling experience, giving us a newfound appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the local farmers.

For lunch, we decided to try Pho Xua, a local restaurant known for its authentic pho. We found a small table near the open-air windows and watched as the bustling street life unfolded before us. The aroma of simmering broth and fresh herbs filled the air, making our mouths water in anticipation. I ordered the classic pho bo, while Hans opted for the banh xeo, a crispy pancake filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. Saoirse, true to form, chose the bun cha, grilled meat with rice noodles and fresh vegetables. Each dish was a symphony of flavors, perfectly balanced and utterly delicious. We savored every bite, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such authentic Vietnamese cuisine.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Pho Xua in Hội An - where every bowl tells a story of tradition and taste.

After our satisfying lunch, we were ready for some relaxation. We had heard about a hidden hammock spot near Cua Dai Beach and decided to seek it out. The directions were a bit vague, but with the help of a friendly local, we eventually found our way. Tucked away from the main road, the Hidden Hammock Spot was a true oasis of tranquility. Lush greenery surrounded us, and comfortable hammocks swayed gently in the breeze. We found three hammocks nestled amongst the trees and immediately claimed them as our own. Saoirse pulled out her book and began to read, while Hans and I simply closed our eyes and listened to the sounds of nature. The gentle rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds created a soothing symphony that washed away all our stress. It was the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Hoi An, a place to simply relax and recharge.

As the afternoon wore on, we reluctantly left our hidden paradise and made our way back to Hoi An. We decided to treat ourselves to dinner at Red Gecko Restaurant, a place recommended by several locals. The restaurant had a cozy, family-run atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. We ordered a variety of dishes, including the My Quang noodles, the fried wontons, and the BBQ fish in banana leaf. Each dish was bursting with flavor, a testament to the chef's skill and passion. Saoirse declared the BBQ fish her favorite, while Hans raved about the My Quang noodles. I was particularly impressed with the fried wontons, crispy and savory with a hint of sweetness. Red Gecko was definitely a culinary highlight of our trip, a place where we felt like we were dining in someone's home.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Red Gecko Restaurant in Hội An – where every dish tells a story!

To cap off our wonderful day, we decided to check out Soul Kitchen, a beach bar known for its laid-back vibe and great music. It was a short taxi ride from our hotel, and as we arrived, we were greeted by the sound of reggae music and the sight of people lounging on the beach. We found a table near the water and ordered some drinks. Hans and I enjoyed a couple of local beers, while Saoirse sipped on a refreshing fruit smoothie. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, and we felt right at home. We watched as the sun began to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. It was the perfect end to a perfect day, a moment of pure bliss that we would cherish forever.


Experience the vibrant flavors and rhythms of Hội An at Soul Kitchen, a top bar and restaurant offering delicious food and live music entertainment.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but smile as I reflect on our day. Hoi An has a way of capturing your heart, of making you feel like you've stepped back in time. The blend of history, culture, and natural beauty is simply irresistible. And the food, oh, the food! Every meal has been a culinary adventure, a chance to savor the authentic flavors of Vietnam. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the ancient town itself and perhaps take a lantern-making class. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us, but for now, I'm content to bask in the memories of this wonderful day.

I am also looking forward to the Lantern Festival which is coming up in a few days. It will be on November 3rd, and I have heard it is quite the spectacle. The whole town will be lit by lanterns and candles, and there will be traditional music and performances. I am excited to experience this unique cultural event with my family.

The thought of potentially taking a basket boat tour has also crossed my mind. I've heard it's a unique way to explore the waterways and get a glimpse into the lives of the local fishermen. It might be a fun and educational experience for Saoirse, and I'm always up for trying new things. Perhaps we can squeeze it in before we leave Hoi An. It all sounds so exciting. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

I’m so glad we remembered to pack our travel guidebooks, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, camera, reusable water bottles, and lightweight clothing for this trip. However, I am kicking myself for forgetting the insect repellent and portable phone charger. They would have been so useful today!

Before I turn in for the night, I must remember to check if Soul Kitchen is open during the winter, since it is getting close to that time of year. It would be a shame if we missed out on another evening of music and relaxation on An Bang Beach.

And with that, I bid you goodnight from Hoi An. Until tomorrow!