A Culinary and Cultural Solo Journey in Hoi An

A Night of Magic and Merriment

Today was a day of pure enchantment here in Hoi An. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the town transformed into a dazzling spectacle of light, color, and culture. From exploring bustling markets to witnessing captivating performances, it was an evening that truly captured the essence of this magical place.

My day began, as it has for the past week, with a hearty Vietnamese breakfast at Cơm Linh. I swear, they make the best *cao lầu* I’ve ever tasted! Fuelled up and ready to explore, I decided to dedicate the afternoon to a little retail therapy. I'd been meaning to replace my worn-out walking shoes since arriving, and I'd heard whispers of a fantastic little place called the Friendly shoe shop. Tucked away on a quiet side street, it was a treasure trove of handcrafted leather shoes. The owner, a jovial man with a twinkle in his eye, greeted me warmly and helped me find the perfect pair. They’re sturdy, comfortable, and stylish – perfect for all the walking I’ve been doing. I think Lena would love a pair of these, I'll have to see if they ship to Germany!


Explore the Friendly Shoe Shop in Hội An for exquisite handcrafted footwear and leather goods, reflecting the artistry of Vietnamese culture.

Lunch was a delightful affair at Tra Que Minty Garden, a charming restaurant nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Tra Que vegetable village. The fresh herbs and vegetables grown right there added an incredible depth of flavor to every dish. I opted for the *bún đậu mắm tôm*, a dish I’d been curious to try, and it was an explosion of textures and tastes. I can't wait to try and recreate it back in Berlin!


Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Tra Que Minty Garden – A unique blend of cooking classes and dining amidst lush greenery.

As evening approached, the real magic began. The Hoi An Night Market was calling, and I couldn’t resist its allure. Stretching along the lantern-lined streets, the market was a kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, and smells. Lanterns of every shape and size cast a warm glow over the stalls, illuminating handcrafted souvenirs, silk garments, and tantalizing street food. I wandered through the throngs of people, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and picking up a few trinkets for Mateo. He's going to love the little wooden dragon I found!


Discover the vibrant Hội An Night Market, where culture, cuisine, and craftsmanship converge in a magical evening setting.

The night market was a sensory explosion, a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of Vietnamese culture and craftsmanship.

After working up an appetite at the market, it was time for dinner at Bale Well restaurant. This place is legendary, and for good reason. The *bánh xèo* (crispy pancakes) were out of this world, and the dipping sauces were the perfect complement. I savored every bite, knowing that this was a meal I wouldn’t soon forget. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with culinary delights.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Bale Well Restaurant in Hội An - a must-visit culinary destination for tourists.

But the night wasn’t over yet! I had tickets to the Hoi An Water Puppet Show, a traditional art form that I was eager to experience. The Hoi An Theater was packed, buzzing with anticipation. As the lights dimmed and the music began, the stage came to life with colorful puppets dancing on the water. The stories they told were ancient and captivating, depicting scenes of Vietnamese rural life, folklore, and legends. The puppeteers were incredibly skilled, manipulating the puppets with grace and precision. The show was a mesmerizing blend of artistry, music, and storytelling, offering a unique glimpse into Vietnamese culture. The water puppet show is held weekly at the Hoi An Theater, and the show presents the daily life of Vietnamese people. The tickets cost 80,000 VND for adults.


Discover the magic of Vietnamese tradition at the Hoi An Water Puppet Show, where art and culture come alive in an unforgettable experience.

As I walked back to the Hoi An Historic Hotel, the town was still alive with activity. The lanterns continued to glow, casting a warm and inviting light on the ancient streets. I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a vibrant and enchanting place. Hoi An has a way of capturing your heart, and I know I’ll carry these memories with me long after I’ve left.


Experience the charm of Hoi An at Hoi An Historic Hotel, a serene oasis near UNESCO sites with modern comforts and traditional hospitality.

Tomorrow, I'm planning to delve deeper into Hoi An's history with a visit to the Museum of Trade Ceramics. I’m also incredibly excited about the Hoi An Adventures Motorbike Day Tour. It sounds like a fantastic way to explore the surrounding countryside and discover hidden gems. I'm especially looking forward to dinner at Kumquat BBQ Restaurant Cooking Class, I'm eager to learn some new cooking techniques and taste even more of the local cuisine. Before that, I will grab lunch in Da Nang at the Galina Restaurant and end the day with a drink at The Deck Hoi An.

I also read that the Mid-Autumn Festival will be held between October 3rd and 7th. I'm hoping to catch a glimpse of the lantern parades, mooncake tasting and other cultural performances. It would be an incredible experience to witness such a vibrant celebration!

As I sit here writing this, sipping a cup of *trà đá* (iced tea) on my balcony, I can’t help but smile. Hoi An has exceeded all my expectations, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Hoi An is also known for its Lantern Festival, celebrated every month on the 14th day of the lunar month, and I am lucky enough that today is the day! During this festival, the entire town glows with the light of thousands of lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere. The electric lights are turned off, and the streets come alive with the soft, colorful glow of lanterns crafted from silk and paper. Floating lanterns are released on the Thu Bon River, creating a sparkling ribbon of light. I was able to witness a mesmerizing lantern parade with lanterns in every shape and color drifting through the streets. I even saw beautifully crafted lanterns shaped like dragons, butterflies, and flowers, carried by locals and visitors alike. Releasing a lantern on the Hoai River is believed to bring good luck and happiness. The Hoi An Lantern Festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved architecture and ancient charm.