Cultural and Culinary Adventure in Hoi An with Friends

A Day of Discovery

Today was a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of artistry, culture, and the tantalizing flavors of Vietnam. Hoi An, with its sun-kissed streets and timeless charm, offered us a day brimming with unforgettable experiences. From exploring the intricate world of local handicrafts to savoring authentic Vietnamese cuisine, every moment was a sensory delight.

The day began with a delightful breakfast at Cafe Sữa 2. This charming spot was recommended by a local, and it didn't disappoint.


Experience authentic Vietnamese coffee at Cafe Sữa 2 in Hội An – where every sip tells a story.

I opted for a classic Banh Mi, while Jan chose Pho. Sipping on strong Vietnamese coffee, we watched as Hoi An slowly came to life. The cafe's cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made it the perfect start to our day. I always appreciate finding those little local gems that offer a genuine taste of the city. The weather in Hoi An in March is wonderful. With temperatures between 25°C and 30°C and abundant sunshine, it was the perfect time to explore the city.

Our first official stop was Hoi An Handicraft Tours. I was eager to see the artistry that this town is known for.


Experience the rich traditions of Vietnamese craftsmanship at Hoi An Handicraft Tours, where art meets culture in a hands-on workshop.

We wandered through workshops where artisans meticulously crafted lanterns, wove silk, carved wood, and shaped pottery. It was mesmerizing to witness their skills passed down through generations. I even tried my hand at lantern making, and while my creation was far from perfect, it gave me a newfound appreciation for the craft. Each piece told a story, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Hoi An. I found a beautiful hand-embroidered piece depicting a traditional Vietnamese scene, which I knew would be a perfect reminder of our trip for our home in Amsterdam. I am planning to hang it in my study room, so that I can remember the vibrant colors of Vietnam every time I see it. I remember when I was a little girl in Kenya, my grandmother used to tell me stories about the importance of preserving our traditions. Seeing these artisans in Hoi An, so dedicated to their crafts, reminded me of her and the values she instilled in me. This experience was definitely a highlight, and I'm so glad we took the time to delve into this aspect of Hoi An's culture. I am so impressed with the dedication of the artisans to their craft. I have always been fascinated by handmade items, and this was a great experience.

I have seen many reviews of Hoi An Handicraft Tours, and I am excited to experience it myself. I am also excited to learn more about the local culture and traditions.

“In every craft lies a story, a tradition, and a piece of the soul of its creator.”

Next on our itinerary was the Hoi An Lune Center for the Performing Arts. We had tickets for the Teh Dar show, a Vietnamese bamboo circus.


Discover the heart of Vietnamese culture at Hoi An Lune Center for the Performing Arts, where tradition meets creativity in extraordinary performances.

The performance was nothing short of spectacular. Acrobats, dancers, and musicians came together to tell stories of Vietnamese highlanders with incredible skill and artistry. The use of bamboo as a prop was innovative and visually stunning, adding a unique element to the show. The music, played on traditional tribal instruments, was haunting and beautiful, enhancing the overall experience. The show was definitely a must-see, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Hoi An. The show was absolutely amazing! The performances were breathtaking, blending acrobatics, storytelling, and stunning visuals into an unforgettable experience. The energy, talent, and creativity of the performers kept us captivated from start to finish. It's unlike anything else and truly showcases the artistry and culture of the region. I'm so glad we didn't miss it. I remember Jan nudging me during one particularly daring acrobatic feat, his eyes wide with amazement. It was one of those shared moments that makes traveling together so special.

For lunch, we headed to Sabirama Cooking Tour & Restaurant. This was more than just a meal; it was an immersive culinary experience.


Explore the essence of Vietnamese cuisine with immersive cooking classes and delightful dining experiences at Sabirama Cooking Tour & Restaurant.

We started with a tour of the local market, where we learned about the fresh ingredients used in Vietnamese cuisine. Then, we boarded a boat that took us through the Bay Mau Coconut Forest to the restaurant. The setting was idyllic, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil waterways. We participated in a cooking class, learning to make traditional dishes like fresh spring rolls, Banh Xeo (crispy pancakes), and Cao Lau (a local noodle dish). The chef was a fantastic teacher, and we had so much fun preparing our own lunch. And the best part? We got to eat everything we made! The flavors were incredible, and it was so rewarding to taste the fruits of our labor. Sabirama Cooking Tour & Restaurant is located in the center of Bay Mau coconut forest. I can see why it is convenient to combine a boat tour down Hoai River, return to Bay Mau Coconut Forest, before gathering inside the restaurant for gala dinner activities, and other activities at Sabirama Hoi An.

After such an active day, we decided to take a break and do some shopping. We stumbled upon Shop quà tặng hàng handmade Hội An (Lee's Quilt), a charming little shop filled with handmade gifts.


Explore Lee's Quilt: A gem in Hội An for exquisite handmade gifts that reflect Vietnam's rich culture and artistry.

I was immediately drawn to the colorful quilts and other fabric creations. Each item was unique and beautifully crafted. I bought a small, quilted wall hanging as a souvenir, a reminder of the beautiful artistry we had witnessed throughout the day. The shop was a treasure trove of unique finds, and I could have easily spent hours browsing. I picked up a few small gifts for my friends back in Amsterdam, knowing they would appreciate the craftsmanship and the story behind each piece. I am always on the lookout for sustainable and ethically made products, and I was happy to support a local business that values traditional crafts. In fact, I remember when I first moved to Amsterdam, I was struck by the emphasis on sustainable living, which really resonated with me. I am glad to see that same spirit alive and well here in Hoi An.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Phat Loc Eco Cooking and Restaurant for dinner. Located near the Bay Mau nipa palm forest, the restaurant offered a peaceful escape from the bustling town center.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine through engaging cooking classes at Phat Loc Eco Cooking and Restaurant in Hoi An.

We opted for a selection of vegetarian dishes, eager to try more of Hoi An's culinary delights. The food was delicious, bursting with fresh herbs and spices. The restaurant's eco-friendly ethos was also a big draw for me. It's always a pleasure to support businesses that prioritize sustainability. The restaurant is located in rural Hoi An, near the Bay Mau nipa palm forest, where you will feel far from Hoi An's ancient town. Phat Loc Eco Cooking will be your best companion as you discover the beauty of this rural area and its activities, culture, and cuisine. Local chef Mai Nguyen will guide you, sharing her knowledge of Hoi An's traditions, foods, and culture. I highly recommend this cooking class. We learned to cook 5 Vietnamese dishes. Originally these are dishes that contain meat, but the host changed certain ingredients to be able to make the recipes vegan.

To cap off the evening, we decided to visit UNO Hoi An Bar and Restaurant.


Discover the perfect blend of Western cuisine and vibrant nightlife at UNO Hoi An Bar and Restaurant, a top choice for tourists in Hội An.

We enjoyed a couple of drinks while soaking in the lively atmosphere. The bar was a mix of locals and tourists, all enjoying the music and good vibes. It was the perfect way to unwind after a busy day. The staff was friendly, and the drinks were reasonably priced. I especially enjoyed the local beer, which was crisp and refreshing. We chatted with a few other travelers, sharing stories and travel tips. It's always fun to connect with people from different backgrounds and hear about their experiences. UNO is the best bar in Hoi An. Super friendly, always have events on. Fantastic staff, run by a local Vietnamese guy, a French chap and an English dude. Food is delicious! Beers are cold and super cheap.... highly recommended.

As I reflect on the day, I'm filled with gratitude for the experiences we had. Hoi An truly is a special place, where culture, artistry, and cuisine come together in perfect harmony. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to explore Hoi An Kayak Tours and take a Lantern Making Class With Lynn. I can't wait to see what other treasures this charming town has in store for us. Good night!

Tomorrow, we are planning to start our day with breakfast at Like Quán. I've heard they have amazing local coffee and delicious pastries. We plan to explore Hoi An Kayak Tours. I'm looking forward to paddling through the waterways and seeing the town from a different perspective. Then, we'll head to a Lantern Making Class With Lynn. I'm excited to learn how to make my own traditional Vietnamese lantern. For lunch, we are planning to try InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort. In the evening, we're planning to have dinner at Nhà hàng Già Rừng. I've heard they serve authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a beautiful setting. We might check out Friendly shoe shop and Hair Of The Dog Bar Hoian as well.

I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you all. Stay tuned for my next post!