A Culinary and Cultural Solo Journey in Hoi An

Hoi An's Charms: From Beach to River and Beyond

Today was a delightful mix of sun, sea, and savory experiences, perfectly capturing the essence of Hoi An. It was a day where I traded the bustling streets of the Ancient Town for the tranquility of An Bang Beach and the gentle flow of the river, punctuated by delicious meals that tantalized my taste buds. It’s these kinds of days that remind me why I love to travel – the unexpected discoveries, the moments of peace, and the chance to connect with a place on a deeper level.

The morning began with a hearty breakfast at Tra Que Minty Garden. From the Hoi An Historic Hotel, it was a short taxi ride to this little garden restaurant, nestled amidst the lush greenery of Tra Que Vegetable Village. The setting was idyllic, with wooden tables and chairs scattered around a yard adorned with lotus ponds and colorful fish. It felt like stepping into a traditional Vietnamese home, far removed from the touristy spots. I ordered a traditional Vietnamese breakfast, which came with fresh herbs, rice paper, and grilled pork. It was a DIY affair, and I enjoyed assembling my own spring rolls, dipping them in the flavorful sauce. The freshness of the ingredients was evident in every bite, a testament to the organic practices of the village. Sipping on a cup of local tea, I watched the farmers tending to their crops, a scene of rural life unfolding before my eyes. It was a peaceful start to the day, a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. I even considered joining one of their cooking classes, but I had other plans for the day.

After breakfast, I headed to An Bang Beach. The beach is about 4 km from Hoi An's old town. I decided to rent a bicycle for a leisurely ride. The sun was shining, and the breeze was gentle, making for a pleasant journey through the countryside. As I approached the coast, the scenery transformed into a landscape of sandy shores and turquoise waters. An Bang Beach was exactly what I needed: a serene escape from the crowds. I found a spot on the soft sand and soaked up the sun. The water was warm and inviting, perfect for a refreshing swim. I spent a couple of hours lounging on the beach, reading a book and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. It was pure bliss, a moment of tranquility amidst my travels. I made a mental note to buy some sunscreen; I had forgotten it in Berlin, and the Vietnamese sun was stronger than I anticipated. I also made a note to bring Lena and Mateo here next time; they would love this beach.

Sometimes, the most memorable experiences are the ones that allow you to slow down, breathe, and simply be present in the moment.

In the afternoon, I had booked a kayaking tour with Hoi An Kayak Tours. I met my guide, Long, at the designated meeting point, and we set off on our adventure. The tour took us through the Thu Bon River, a lifeline of Hoi An. As we paddled along, Long shared stories about the river's history and its importance to the local communities. We passed by fishing villages, mangrove forests, and coconut farms, each offering a glimpse into the traditional way of life. The kayaking was gentle and relaxing, a chance to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the surroundings. I even tried my hand at paddling a traditional bamboo basket boat, a skill that requires balance and coordination. It was a comical sight, I'm sure, but I managed to stay afloat. Long mentioned they also have sunrise and sunset tours, which I’ll definitely consider next time.

For lunch, Long recommended Bale Well restaurant. Tucked away in a small alley, this unassuming eatery is a local favorite. There's no menu; instead, they serve a set meal of grilled pork, rice paper, fresh herbs, and dipping sauce. It's a DIY affair, and I enjoyed assembling my own spring rolls, filling them with the savory pork and fragrant herbs. The flavors were incredible, a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, with locals and tourists alike sharing tables and stories. It was a truly authentic culinary experience, a far cry from the fancy restaurants in the tourist district.

As evening approached, I decided to check out Why Not Bar. Located by the riverside, this bar is known for its lively atmosphere and late-night hours. I grabbed a seat at the bar and ordered a local beer. The music was pumping, and the crowd was a mix of locals and tourists, all looking to have a good time. I struck up a conversation with a fellow traveler from Australia, and we shared stories about our adventures in Vietnam. The drinks were flowing, and the laughter was infectious. It was a fun and energetic way to end the day. I even tried some shisha, which they are known for, and found the flavors to be quite smooth. It reminded me of the hookah bars in Berlin, but with a Vietnamese twist. Though I am married, I noticed they have a Ladies Night, which could be fun for some travelers.

For dinner, I opted for Cao Cao Grasshopper, a restaurant known for its unique name and local cuisine. I tried some of their specialties, including the grasshopper dish, which was surprisingly delicious. It was a bold culinary choice, but I'm glad I tried it. The flavors were complex and intriguing, a testament to the creativity of Vietnamese cuisine. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed dinner. I paired my meal with a glass of local wine, savoring the flavors and reflecting on the day's adventures.

Tomorrow, I plan to delve deeper into Hoi An's cultural heritage with a visit to the Hoi An Village Experience and the Museum of Folk Culture. I'm also looking forward to trying more local delicacies at HOME Hoi An - HOME Vietnamese Restaurant, Vy's Market Restaurant, and Red Dragon Restaurant and Cooking Class. Perhaps I'll even pick up a souvenir at the BLOOM HOI AN STORE. It's hard to believe that my trip is coming to an end. I will try to take in as much as I can in these last couple of days. I will miss Vietnam and its people, but I know I will be back someday.

Today was a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and culinary exploration, a testament to the diverse experiences that Hoi An has to offer. It's a place that captivates the senses and nourishes the soul, a destination that I will cherish for years to come. As I reflect on my journey, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore this beautiful country and share my experiences with you. Until tomorrow, keep exploring and keep discovering!