Cultural and Culinary Adventure in Hoi An with Friends

Whispers of the Past, Tastes of the Present

Today was a day of incredible contrasts, seamlessly blending ancient history with the vibrant pulse of modern Vietnamese life. Hoi An continues to enchant me, and I'm so excited to share the day's adventures with you all. From exploring ancient ruins to savoring exquisite local flavors with my friends, every moment was a sensory delight.

Our day began with an early start, fueled by excitement and strong Vietnamese coffee, as we set off to explore the My Son Sanctuary. The February weather in Hoi An was perfect, with mild temperatures hovering around 23°C, making it ideal for a day of outdoor exploration. The sanctuary is about an hour's drive from Hoi An, and the journey itself was a treat, with picturesque countryside views unfolding along the way. I was so glad I remembered to bring my camera; the scenery was simply breathtaking.

Arriving at My Son, I was immediately struck by the sheer scale and historical significance of the site. This UNESCO World Heritage site, dating back to the 4th century, was once a vital religious and political center of the Champa kingdom. As we wandered through the ruins, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and reverence. The intricate carvings and towering structures, though weathered by time and war, still spoke volumes about the rich cultural heritage of the Cham people.

To truly appreciate a culture, one must immerse oneself in its history and savor its flavors.

Our guide, a knowledgeable local historian, shared fascinating stories about the sanctuary's origins, its role in the Champa kingdom, and the various influences that shaped its architecture and art. I learned that My Son was dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and served as a place of worship and pilgrimage for centuries. Despite the damage inflicted during the Vietnam War, the site has been remarkably preserved, and ongoing restoration efforts are helping to uncover even more of its hidden treasures.


Explore the mystical My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in Cham culture and ancient architecture, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

After a morning of exploring ancient history, it was time to immerse ourselves in the flavors of modern Vietnam. We headed back to Hoi An for a late breakfast at Tra Que Water Wheel Restaurant & Cooking Classes. This charming spot, nestled in the heart of Tra Que Vegetable Village, offered not only delicious food but also a unique opportunity to learn about local farming practices. The restaurant is known for its commitment to using fresh, organic ingredients, and the dishes we sampled were bursting with flavor.


Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine and hands-on cooking experiences at Tra Que Water Wheel Restaurant in Hội An.

We started with a refreshing green mango salad, followed by a hearty bowl of Cao Lau, a local noodle specialty that's unique to Hoi An. The dish consists of thick rice noodles, succulent pork, crisp greens, and a flavorful broth that's both savory and slightly sweet. It was the perfect fuel for our afternoon adventures.

For lunch, we ventured into the heart of Hoi An's Ancient Town to Madam Kieu Vietnamese Restaurant. The restaurant was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists all eager to sample the authentic Vietnamese cuisine. We ordered a selection of dishes to share, including fresh spring rolls, crispy pancakes, and a fragrant fish curry. Each dish was a culinary masterpiece, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. I particularly enjoyed the spring rolls, which were light, refreshing, and packed with herbs and vegetables.


Discover the rich flavors of Vietnam at Madam Kieu Restaurant in Hội An - where tradition meets taste!

After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll through the Hoi An Old Town (Shopping Street), soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and browsing the countless shops and stalls. The town is a shopper's paradise, offering everything from tailored clothing and leather goods to handcrafted souvenirs and local artwork. I couldn't resist picking up a few silk scarves and a hand-painted lantern as mementos of our trip. I even managed to find a travel adapter, finally remembering one of the essentials I had forgotten!


Explore Hoi An Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site offering vibrant shopping, rich history, and exquisite local cuisine in the heart of Vietnam.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we made our way to the Thu Bồn River for a relaxing boat ride. The river winds its way through the heart of Hoi An, offering stunning views of the town's ancient architecture and bustling waterfront. As we glided along the water, we watched as the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors, from fiery oranges and reds to soft pinks and purples. It was a truly magical experience.


Experience the picturesque Thu Bồn River in Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where tranquility meets rich cultural heritage.

Our final stop of the day was at Little Faifo Restaurant for dinner. This charming eatery, located in a historic building in the heart of the Ancient Town, is known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We indulged in a feast of local delicacies, including white rose dumplings, crispy wontons, and a flavorful seafood hotpot. The food was exceptional, and the service was warm and attentive.


Experience authentic Vietnamese flavors blended with Indian spices at Little Faifo Restaurant in Hội An's Old Town.

To cap off our day, we decided to experience the nightlife of Hoi An at Sky bar Hoi An (rastabar). Perched atop one of the town's tallest buildings, this rooftop bar offered panoramic views of the illuminated cityscape. We sipped on refreshing cocktails as we listened to reggae music and soaked in the lively atmosphere. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.


Experience breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife at Sky Bar Hoi An, where exquisite cocktails and local flavor meet spectacular sunsets.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're planning to spend the day at Cua Dai Beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the crystal-clear waters. We'll also be visiting Tra Que Village House, where we'll learn more about traditional Vietnamese farming practices and sample some of the region's freshest produce. And of course, we'll be indulging in more delicious Vietnamese cuisine at Le Petit Bistro Hoi An for breakfast, Vy's Market Restaurant for lunch and Mai Fish Restaurant for dinner.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Hoi An with my friends. This trip has been a true feast for the senses, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. I'm already dreaming of the basket boat tour I read about, and Jan would love Soul Kitchen bar.

Until next time, safe travels and happy exploring!