Cultural and Culinary Adventure in Hoi An with Friends

A Fond Farewell

As my time in Hoi An draws to a close, I wanted to soak up every last bit of this magical town. Today was all about exploring the hidden corners and revisiting some favorite haunts, creating memories that I know will stay with me long after I've returned to Amsterdam. It’s hard to believe our cultural and culinary adventure is coming to an end, but what better way to celebrate the last day than by exploring and creating new memories with friends?

The day began, as many others have, with a quest for the perfect Vietnamese coffee. I found myself at Dng.coffee for breakfast. The coffee was robust and flavorful, just the kick-start I needed for the day’s adventures. It's amazing how such a simple cup of coffee can encapsulate the essence of a place. It reminded me of the small coffee shops back home in Nyahururu, where the sense of community was just as strong as the brew.


Discover the best of Vietnamese coffee culture at Dng.coffee in Da Nang—where every sip tells a story.

With coffee in hand, we set off to find the Hidden Hammock Spot. It was a bit of a treasure hunt, winding through narrow streets and past colorful buildings. Finally, we stumbled upon it – a serene little nook with hammocks swaying gently in the breeze. It was the perfect place to pause, reflect, and simply enjoy the tranquility of Hoi An. I could have easily spent the entire day there, lost in a book and lulled by the gentle sway of the hammock.


Experience the serene beauty of Hidden Hammock Spot in Hoi An, Vietnam, where relaxation meets nature in a tranquil setting.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in grand monuments, but in the quiet corners of a place, where you can truly connect with its soul.

Next on the itinerary was the Hoi An Prison Relic. This was a sobering experience, a stark reminder of Vietnam's tumultuous history and the sacrifices made in the fight for independence. Walking through the preserved structures, reading the stories of those who were detained here, I felt a deep sense of respect and gratitude for the resilience of the Vietnamese people. It was a heavy visit, but an important one, adding depth and perspective to my understanding of this country.


Explore the profound history of the Hoi An Prison Relic, a pivotal landmark reflecting Vietnam's journey towards independence and resilience.

For lunch, we ventured to Da Nang, a short drive from Hoi An, to try Galina Restaurant Đà Nẵng. The restaurant boasted a stunning view of the sea, and the seafood was incredibly fresh. I savored every bite, knowing this was one of my last opportunities to indulge in authentic Vietnamese cuisine on this trip. The restaurant had a luxurious and airy atmosphere, with a design blending Vietnamese tradition and modern comfort. The staff were attentive and friendly, making our lunch even more enjoyable. It was a delightful culinary experience, perfectly complementing the day's explorations.


Discover authentic Vietnamese seafood delights at Galina Restaurant in Đà Nẵng – where flavor meets stunning ocean views.

Back in Hoi An, with the afternoon sun casting long shadows, we decided to do some shopping at Then Boutique. I was on the lookout for a few last-minute souvenirs, something to remind me of this incredible journey. The boutique was filled with beautiful textiles, handcrafted jewelry, and unique pieces of art. I found a lovely silk scarf, its vibrant colors echoing the hues of Hoi An's lanterns, and a small wooden carving, a symbol of good luck and prosperity.


Discover Then Boutique in Hội An: a vibrant costume store and art studio celebrating local culture and artistry.

As the day transitioned into evening, we made our way to Market Bar - Market Terrace for a final drink. This rooftop bar offered a fantastic view of the Old Town, the lantern-lit streets stretching out before us like a tapestry of light. The atmosphere was lively, the music upbeat, and the cocktails delicious. I ordered a gin-based concoction, its flavors a perfect blend of sweet and tangy, and raised a toast to Hoi An, to new friendships, and to unforgettable memories.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Market Bar in Hội An, where innovative cocktails meet local flavors in a stunning setting.

Before dinner, I took a moment to wander through the streets of Hoi An alone. The air was filled with the scent of incense and street food, the sounds of laughter and music. I paused on the Japanese Covered Bridge, watching the boats glide along the river, their lanterns casting a warm glow on the water. It was a scene of such beauty and serenity, it almost felt surreal.

For our farewell dinner, we chose An Nhàn - Exquisite Cultural Gallery & Coffee. The name, meaning relax and peace, perfectly captured the ambiance of the place. The restaurant was housed in a beautifully restored stilt house, surrounded by lush greenery. The food was delicious, the coffee exceptional, and the cultural gallery upstairs offered a glimpse into the traditions of Vietnam's ethnic minorities. It was a fitting end to our culinary journey, a celebration of Vietnamese culture and hospitality.


Discover artistry and relaxation at An Nhàn - Hội An's exquisite cultural gallery and coffee spot blending local creativity with delightful flavors.

We enjoyed the evening, savoring the handmade drinks and special coffee, reminiscing about our adventures, and planning future trips. The staff was incredibly friendly, sharing stories and insights about the local culture. The gallery showcased an array of handmade items from the Co Tu minority and other ethnic groups in Vietnam, adding a unique and enriching dimension to our dining experience.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a pang of sadness that our time in Hoi An is coming to an end. But I also feel incredibly grateful for the experiences we've shared, the friendships we've forged, and the memories we've created. Hoi An has captured a piece of my heart, and I know I'll be back someday to explore its hidden corners and soak up its magic once again.

Tomorrow, we head back to Amsterdam. It’s always bittersweet to leave a place that has captured your heart, but I know I’m bringing a piece of Hoi An back with me. The memories, the flavors, and the warmth of the Vietnamese people will stay with me, inspiring me to live each day with curiosity, gratitude, and a sense of adventure. I am looking forward to seeing Jan again and sharing my experiences with him in person.

I'll be sure to incorporate some of the sustainable practices I've learned here into my daily life. Perhaps I'll even try my hand at making pho with Dutch ingredients! Until next time, Hoi An, cảm ơn (thank you) for everything.