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

Last Day in Paradise

As our family adventure in Hoi An draws to a close, I find myself filled with a bittersweet mix of emotions. This ancient town has woven its magic around us, captivating us with its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Today, we savored our final moments, soaking in the sun, relishing the local cuisine, and creating memories that will forever be etched in our hearts.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Morning Glory Original. The restaurant was bustling with activity, the aroma of Vietnamese coffee and freshly prepared dishes filling the air. I opted for a classic bowl of Cao Lau, a regional noodle specialty, while Hans enjoyed a hearty plate of Banh Mi. Sofia, ever the adventurous eater, tried the mango salad. We savored each bite, knowing it would be one of our last tastes of authentic Hoi An cuisine for a while. It reminded me of the small family businesses in Teruel, each with its own special touch.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Morning Glory Original in Hoi An – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

After breakfast, we decided to spend the morning at Cua Dai Beach. Despite it being December, the weather was surprisingly pleasant, with intermittent sunshine. The sea felt warm, so we packed our bathers. Sofia was thrilled to build sandcastles, while Hans and I enjoyed a leisurely stroll along the shore. The coastline, shaded by lush coconut trees, was picturesque. I couldn't resist taking photos, trying to capture the essence of this serene paradise. The beach was clean, which made the experience even more enjoyable. While the weather in December can be rainy, we were lucky to have a mostly sunny day.


Discover the tranquil charm of Cua Dai Beach, where soft sands and azure waters create the perfect getaway in Hoi An, Vietnam.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

Next on our itinerary was the Hidden Hammock Spot. We rented bicycles and rode through the countryside, enjoying the fresh air and scenic views. The ride itself was an adventure, as we navigated the narrow paths and waved to friendly locals. When we arrived at the Hidden Hammock Spot, we were greeted by a tranquil oasis. Lush greenery surrounded comfortable hammocks, creating an idyllic atmosphere for relaxation. Sofia immediately ran to claim her hammock, while Hans and I settled into ours, swaying gently in the breeze. It was the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature. We spent a few hours there, reading, napping, and simply soaking in the serene environment.


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.

For lunch, we chose the Old Garden Restaurant (Vườn Xưa). Tucked away in a small alley, this hidden gem offered a cozy and authentic dining experience. We ordered a variety of local dishes, including Cao Lau, chicken rice, and grilled pork with amazing spring rolls. The food was delicious, each dish bursting with flavor and herbs. The staff were lovely, making us feel like part of their family. The restaurant's ambiance was charming, with a green space and twinkling yellow lights. It was a perfect spot to savor the tastes of Hoi An one last time.


Discover the charm of traditional Vietnamese cuisine at Old Garden Restaurant in Hội An's historic Old Town.

In the late afternoon, we indulged in some retail therapy at the Hội An Lantern Company. I had been wanting to buy a traditional Vietnamese lantern as a souvenir, and this was the perfect place to do so. The shop offered a vast choice of colors and styles, each lantern beautifully crafted with magnificent fabrics. I chose a silk lantern with a delicate floral pattern, while Sofia picked a colorful lantern with dragons. The lanterns glowed wonderfully, capturing the essence of Hoi An's vibrant culture. I imagined hanging it in our home in Bonn, a reminder of our incredible journey.


Explore the enchanting Hội An Lantern Company, where tradition meets artistry in handcrafted lanterns that illuminate the culture of Vietnam.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to MIX Greek Restaurant Hoi An. I know it seems strange to eat Greek food in Vietnam, but we had heard rave reviews about this place and wanted to give it a try. The restaurant had a perfect location in Hoi An's Ancient Town, and the menu was innovative and delightful. We started with Keftedakia and Kolokithokeftedes, sampling a range of dishes. For the main course, Hans ordered the beef, and I chose the chicken souvlaki. The portions were incredibly generous, and everything was perfect. It was a delightful culinary experience, a fusion of Greek flavors in the heart of Vietnam.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at MIX Greek Restaurant in Hoi An – where Mediterranean flavors meet Vietnamese hospitality.

After dinner, we took one last stroll through the Ancient Town, admiring the lantern-lit streets and soaking in the magical atmosphere. Hoi An had truly captured our hearts, and we were sad to say goodbye. We reminisced about our favorite moments such as visiting the Japanese Covered Bridge, exploring the My Son Sanctuary, and taking a cooking class. We also talked about the small things, like learning a few German idioms, attending local festivals in Bonn, and cooking traditional Spanish dishes with a German twist.

As we prepare to leave tomorrow, I am filled with gratitude for this incredible experience. Hoi An has not only enriched our understanding of Vietnamese culture but has also strengthened our bond as a family. We will cherish these memories forever, and I am already dreaming of our next adventure.

Tomorrow marks the end of our trip. We will be heading to the airport to catch our flight back to Bonn. It's always a little sad to leave a place that has captured your heart, but I know we'll carry the memories of Hoi An with us always. Until next time, Vietnam!

I am also grateful that I did not forget any of the essentials this time. It would have been a shame if I had forgotten my camera, comfortable walking shoes, or sunscreen. However, I do regret not bringing a raincoat and a hat. These would have been useful during the occasional rain showers.

This trip has been a wonderful way to spend the Christmas season. Exploring a new culture and creating lasting memories with my family is the best gift I could ask for. As a librarian specializing in historical archives, I appreciate the opportunity to immerse myself in the history and culture of different places. Hoi An, with its ancient charm and rich heritage, has been a truly special destination.