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

A Day of Creation and Culture in Hoi An

Today was a vibrant tapestry of cultural immersion, artistic creation, and delightful discoveries in Hoi An. From the gentle art of lantern making to the exploration of local handicrafts and a stunning rooftop rendezvous, it was a day filled with family bonding and unforgettable experiences. It was a day that truly captured the essence of this charming Vietnamese town.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Firefly Hoi An | Restaurant & Bar. The restaurant's open setting, adorned with colorful lanterns, created a traditional ambiance that perfectly complemented our anticipation for the day ahead. I savored a warm bowl of *Cao Lầu*, a local noodle dish, while Hans enjoyed a hearty plate of *bánh mì*. Sofia, ever the adventurous eater, surprised us by trying (and loving!) *mì quảng*, another regional specialty. It was a perfect start, fueling us for the creative endeavors that awaited.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Firefly Hoi An Restaurant & Bar - where every dish tells a story.

Illuminating Traditions: The Lantern Making Class

Our first adventure was the Lantern Making Class. As a librarian specializing in historical archives, I'm always drawn to the stories behind cultural traditions, and the art of lantern making in Hoi An is rich with history. The local belief that hanging lanterns brings luck, happiness, and wealth adds a layer of charm to this craft.

We chose the full class, eager to experience the process from scratch. Our instructor, a skilled artisan, guided us through each step, from selecting the bamboo frame to carefully stretching the silk fabric. Sofia was particularly enthusiastic, choosing a vibrant pink silk for her lantern and meticulously painting floral patterns on it. Hans, with his engineering mind, approached the task with precision, ensuring every fold and knot was perfect. I opted for a more traditional design, selecting a deep blue silk and adding delicate gold accents.


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

The beauty of Hoi An lies not just in its historical architecture, but in the living traditions that continue to thrive within its walls.

The class was not only a creative outlet but also a wonderful opportunity to learn about Vietnamese culture and the significance of these colorful lanterns. We learned about the different shapes and their meanings, the types of silk used, and the intricate process of creating these iconic symbols of Hoi An. As we worked, we shared stories and laughter, creating not just lanterns but also precious family memories. I even managed to pick up a few German idioms to share with the instructor, who was quite amused by the literal translations!

Exploring Local Artistry: Hoi An Handicraft Village - Xóm Thủ Công Hội An

Next, we ventured to the Hoi An Handicraft Village - Xóm Thủ Công Hội An. Founded by Truong Mi Sa and partners, the village is a haven for artisans passionate about handcrafted products. It was fascinating to see the diverse range of crafts on display, from leather goods and tailored clothing to macrame and hand-embroidered linen.


Explore the enchanting Hoi An Handicraft Village, where traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship comes to life in a picturesque setting.

Sofia was captivated by the mask painting workshop, where she spent a happy hour decorating a traditional Vietnamese mask with bright colors and glitter. Hans, always interested in how things are made, was drawn to the leather workshop, admiring the skill and precision of the artisans. I found myself mesmerized by the delicate hand-embroidered linen clothing, marveling at the intricate designs and the artistry of the craftspeople. We even participated in a workshop on repurposing fabric scraps, learning how to create beautiful and sustainable items from discarded materials. It was inspiring to see how these artisans are keeping traditional crafts alive while also embracing innovation and sustainability.

For lunch, we stopped at Nhà hàng Cơm Linh, a local Vietnamese restaurant. We ordered a variety of dishes to share, including *gỏi cuốn* (fresh spring rolls), *bún chả* (grilled pork with noodles), and, of course, *cơm gà Hội An* (Hoi An chicken rice). The flavors were fresh and vibrant, and the cozy atmosphere of the restaurant made it a perfect spot to relax and refuel. It was a reminder of the simple pleasures of travel: good food, good company, and the joy of discovering new tastes.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Nhà Hàng Cơm Linh, where delightful dishes meet warm hospitality in Hội An.

Sunset Views and Rooftop Vibes: Sky Bar Hoi An (rastabar)

As the day drew to a close, we decided to experience Hoi An's nightlife with a visit to Sky bar Hoi An (rastabar). This rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city, and we arrived just in time to catch the sunset. The sky was ablaze with color, painting the ancient town in hues of orange, pink, and gold. It was a breathtaking sight, and we savored the moment with a round of cocktails.


Discover the vibrant nightlife at Sky Bar Hoi An, where cocktails and darts meet stunning views in a lively atmosphere.

Hans and I enjoyed classic cocktails, while Sofia sipped on a refreshing fruit smoothie. The bar had a lively atmosphere, with music playing and people chatting and laughing. We even joined in a friendly game of darts, adding to the fun and relaxed vibe. As the city lights began to twinkle, we felt a sense of contentment and gratitude. It was the perfect end to a day filled with creativity, culture, and connection.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Phố cổ Hội An and find the perfect spot to watch the sunset. We'll also be having breakfast at Song thanh Riverside Restaurant, lunch at Mr. Sơn Restaurant, and dinner at Hai Cafe Courtyard BBQ & Restaurant in Hoi An Old Town. A visit to Unique Hoi An Fashion is also on the cards!

As I reflect on today, I'm reminded of the importance of embracing new experiences and immersing ourselves in different cultures. Hoi An has a way of captivating the senses and stirring the soul. It's a place where ancient traditions meet modern life, where artistry thrives, and where every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. And as we continue our family adventure, I'm excited to see what other treasures this charming town has in store for us. Perhaps I'll even find a German-Vietnamese fusion recipe to try when we return to Bonn!

Before I turn in for the night, I can’t help but think about the lanterns we crafted today. Each one is a unique reflection of our individual personalities and a symbol of our shared experience in Hoi An. As they hang in our home in Bonn, they will serve as a reminder of this special time and the enduring power of family, culture, and creativity.