Family Adventure in Hoi An: Exploring Vietnam's Ancient Charm

Enchantment in Every Corner

Today was a day where Hoi An truly revealed its magic. From the bustling streets of the ancient town to the serene sunset viewpoint, every moment was filled with a unique charm that captivated not just me, but Hans and Sofia as well. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel and share these experiences with my family.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Song Thanh Riverside Restaurant. The restaurant was conveniently situated along the Thu Bon River, offering a stunning view of Hoi An Memories Island. The atmosphere was relaxed, and the staff were incredibly friendly. I savored a delicious bowl of *Cao Lau*, a local specialty, while Hans enjoyed a hearty *Pho*. Sofia, of course, opted for her usual – a stack of banana pancakes, which she devoured with gusto. The riverside view, with boats gliding gently by, was the perfect start to our day.


Experience authentic Vietnamese flavors at Song Thanh Riverside Restaurant while enjoying breathtaking riverside views in Hội An.

After breakfast, we ventured into the heart of Phố cổ Hội An, the ancient town itself. The architecture, a captivating blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences, was truly mesmerizing. We wandered through narrow, winding streets, lined with centuries-old houses adorned with colorful lanterns. The atmosphere was vibrant, with the sounds of street vendors, the scent of local delicacies, and the kaleidoscope of colors from the silk shops.


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

I was particularly fascinated by the Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An, with its intricate carvings and serene temple. Sofia was excited to learn about the history, and Hans, ever the engineer, admired the architectural details. We took countless photos, trying to capture the essence of this unique place.

The beauty of Hoi An lies not just in its historical landmarks, but in the everyday moments that unfold within its ancient walls.

As we explored, we stumbled upon Unique Hoi An Fashion, a charming shop filled with beautiful clothing and accessories. I couldn't resist purchasing a hand-embroidered silk scarf, a perfect souvenir to remind me of our time here. Sofia, always interested in fashion, found a lovely *Ao Dai* – the traditional Vietnamese dress – in vibrant pink, which she immediately wanted to wear.


Explore Unique Hoi An Fashion for custom-tailored clothing and exquisite fabrics, capturing the essence of Vietnamese craftsmanship in every stitch.

For lunch, we decided to try Mr. Sơn Restaurant, known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a menu full of local specialties. I savored the *Banh Mi*, a crispy baguette filled with savory meats and fresh herbs, while Hans opted for the *Com Ga*, a flavorful chicken rice dish. Sofia, adventurous as always, tried the *Goi Cuon*, fresh spring rolls with shrimp and vegetables, and declared them delicious.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Mr. Sơn Restaurant in Hội An—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

In the afternoon, as the sun began to dip lower, we made our way to the sunset viewpoint. We decided to head to Cua Dai Bridge, recommended as an excellent spot for sunset views. The bridge offered panoramic vistas of the Thu Bon River, the coastline, and the distant mountains. As the sun began to set, the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors – oranges, pinks, and purples – reflecting on the water below. It was a breathtaking sight, a perfect end to a perfect day.


Discover the enchanting sunset view point in Hoi An, where nature's beauty meets tranquility for an unforgettable experience.

Sofia was mesmerized by the colors, and Hans, ever the romantic, held my hand as we watched the sun disappear below the horizon. It was a moment of pure bliss, a shared experience that we will cherish forever.

For our final meal of the day, we chose Hai Cafe Courtyard BBQ & Restaurant in Hoi An Old Town. The restaurant had a lovely courtyard setting, with an open-air kitchen where we could watch the chefs preparing our meal. We ordered the barbecue seafood platter, a feast of grilled prawns, squid, and fish, seasoned with fresh herbs and spices. The flavors were incredible, a perfect blend of Vietnamese and international influences.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Hai Cafe Courtyard BBQ & Restaurant in the heart of Hoi An Old Town, where flavors meet tradition.

As we sat there, enjoying our meal under the stars, I reflected on the day. Hoi An had truly captured our hearts, with its ancient charm, vibrant culture, and breathtaking beauty. It was a day of exploration, discovery, and shared moments, a perfect example of why we love to travel as a family.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Nguyen Tuong Family Chapel and the Diep Dong Nguyen House. I am looking forward to learning more about the local history and architecture. We might also check out the Hoi An T/T Cocktail Bar, Coffee & Antiques for a relaxing evening drink.

Until then, *adios* from Hoi An!