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

Enchanting Evenings in Ancient Hoi An

Today was a day of simple pleasures and enchanting discoveries here in Hoi An. As our family adventure nears its end, we soaked in the town's magical atmosphere, creating memories that I know we'll cherish for years to come. It's amazing how a place can capture your heart with its blend of history, culture, and genuine warmth.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Hoi An Riverside Restaurant. The restaurant's location, right on the Thu Bồn River, provided a stunning backdrop as we enjoyed a mix of Vietnamese specialties and familiar breakfast fare. I savored a delicious bowl of *Cao lầu*, a local noodle dish, while Hans enjoyed some fresh pastries, and Sofia happily munched on a plate of *bánh xèo*, crispy Vietnamese pancakes. The gentle morning breeze and the picturesque view of the river made it a perfect start to our day.


Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine amidst breathtaking riverside views at Hoi An Riverside Restaurant.

After breakfast, we took a leisurely stroll along the riverfront, soaking in the sights and sounds of Hoi An waking up. The streets were already bustling with activity, vendors setting up their stalls, and locals going about their daily routines. The colorful architecture and the ubiquitous lanterns created a charming atmosphere that's unique to this town.

As the day progressed, we decided to immerse ourselves in the heart of Hoi An by taking a boat trip on the Thu Bồn River. The river, often called the “Mother River,” has been the lifeblood of this region for centuries. We boarded a traditional wooden boat and set off on a gentle cruise, passing by ancient houses, bustling markets, and serene temples. Sofia was particularly excited, her eyes wide with wonder as she spotted colorful fishing boats and waving children along the riverbanks. I tried to explain to her the historical significance of the river, how it had been a vital trade route for centuries, but she was more interested in spotting the next lantern!

Explore the beauty of Thu Bồn River in Hoi An, Vietnam—where serene landscapes meet rich cultural heritage and unforgettable experiences await.

The boat ride offered a unique perspective of Hoi An, away from the crowded streets. The weather in December is quite pleasant, with mild temperatures making it ideal for outdoor activities. The occasional light rain only added to the charm, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere.

Sometimes, the simplest experiences create the most lasting memories.

For lunch, we ventured into the Ancient Town and dined at CHÂU Kitchen & Bar. The restaurant, nestled in a 120-year-old heritage house, exuded old-world charm and offered a delightful blend of traditional Vietnamese flavors with a modern twist. I opted for the *Bò lúc lắc*, stir-fried beef in garlic sauce, while Hans enjoyed a fresh seafood dish, and Sofia devoured a plate of spring rolls. The food was exceptional, and the ambiance was perfect for a relaxed family meal.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at CHÂU Kitchen & Bar in Hoi An - where tradition meets contemporary flair.

After lunch, we continued our exploration of the Ancient Town, visiting historical landmarks and soaking in the local culture. I, as the family's resident historian, was in my element, sharing stories and anecdotes about Hoi An's rich past. Sofia, however, was more interested in the colorful lanterns that adorned every street. I promised her that we would take a lantern boat ride later in the evening, a prospect that kept her excitement levels high.

As evening approached, the town transformed into a magical wonderland, illuminated by thousands of lanterns. The Thu Bồn River became a shimmering ribbon of light, reflecting the vibrant colors of the lanterns. We boarded a small lantern boat and set off on a peaceful cruise. Sofia was ecstatic, carefully lighting her own paper lantern and releasing it onto the water, making a silent wish as it floated away. The experience was truly magical, a perfect blend of tranquility and beauty.


Experience the enchanting beauty of Hoi An's Old Town Lantern Boat, where vibrant lanterns create a magical atmosphere along the tranquil Thu Bon River.

For dinner, we decided to try something different and headed to Circle Restaurant | Hoi An Burgers and Tacos by Circle Cafe. It might seem unusual to eat burgers and tacos in Vietnam, but we had heard great things about this place, and we were in the mood for a change. The restaurant lived up to its reputation, serving up delicious burgers and flavorful tacos with a Vietnamese twist. Sofia particularly enjoyed her mini-burgers, while Hans and I savored the pulled pork tacos. It was a fun and satisfying meal, a testament to Hoi An's diverse culinary scene.

Experience the best burgers and tacos in Hoi An at Circle Restaurant - where Vietnamese flavors meet international favorites.

To cap off our evening, Hans and I decided to check out Soul Kitchen, a beach bar known for its laid-back atmosphere and live music. Sofia, of course, was fast asleep back at the hotel, dreaming of lanterns and river lights. Soul Kitchen was everything we had hoped for – a relaxed vibe, cool music, and a stunning view of the ocean. We sipped on cocktails, enjoyed the music, and reflected on our incredible day in Hoi An.


Experience the vibrant flavors and rhythms of Hội An at Soul Kitchen, a top bar and restaurant offering delicious food and live music entertainment.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment and gratitude. Hoi An has truly captured my heart, and I know that the memories we've created here will stay with us forever. It's a town that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty, offering something for everyone. And as our family adventure nears its end, I'm already looking forward to our next journey, wherever it may take us.

Tomorrow marks the last day of our family adventure in Hoi An, and we plan to make the most of it by visiting Cua Dai Beach and the Hidden Hammock Spot. I'm hoping to soak up some sun and enjoy the coastal scenery before we bid farewell to this enchanting town. We also plan to try Morning Glory Original for breakfast, Old Garden Restaurant for lunch and MIX Greek Restaurant Hoi An for dinner. A visit to Hoi An Lantern Company is also on the cards, so we can bring a piece of Hoi An's magic back home with us. Until then, *adiós* from Hoi An!