Cultural and Culinary Adventure in Hoi An with Friends

First Impressions of Hoi An

After a long journey from Amsterdam, I've finally arrived in Hoi An with my friends! The air is warm and the atmosphere is buzzing with excitement. I am ready to dive headfirst into this Vietnamese adventure. The blend of cultures, the promise of delicious food, and the allure of a UNESCO World Heritage site – it’s all incredibly exciting.



Our first day was packed, a true immersion into the heart of Hoi An. It was a day of firsts, flavors, and unforgettable sights.

A Morning of Vietnamese Delights

We started our day with breakfast at Firefly Hoi An | Restaurant & Bar. The place was lovely, adorned with colorful lanterns that cast a warm glow. I decided to try the chef's noodles, and I must say, it was the perfect introduction to Vietnamese cuisine. The blend of flavors was exquisite, and the noodles were cooked to perfection. My friends enjoyed a variety of Asian dishes and even some pizza. It was a delightful start to the day.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Firefly Hoi An, where every dish tells a story amidst vibrant culture.

Sometimes, the most authentic experiences are found in the unexpected corners of the world, where cultures blend and stories unfold.

Exploring Hoi An Village Experience

Next on our list was the Hoi An Village Experience. This was an incredible opportunity to step away from the touristy areas and delve into the authentic rural life of Vietnam. We explored traditional villages and participated in everyday activities. It was fascinating to see how locals live, work, and maintain their traditions. The experience was hands-on, and we learned about various crafts and farming techniques.


Explore the authentic charm and rich cultural heritage of Hoi An Village Experience, a must-see tourist attraction in Vietnam.

One of the highlights was learning about pottery-making. I attempted to create a small bowl, but let’s just say my skills need some improvement. It was fun getting my hands dirty and appreciating the artistry that goes into each piece. My friend Jan, with his engineering mind, was particularly fascinated by the mechanics of the pottery wheel.

Wandering Through Phố cổ Hội An

After the village experience, we headed to Phố cổ Hội An, the ancient town itself. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it felt like stepping back in time. The architecture is a mix of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese styles, reflecting the town's history as a major trading port from the 15th to the 19th century. We wandered through the narrow streets, admiring the traditional houses and vibrant street markets. The town was bustling with activity, yet it retained a sense of tranquility.


Discover the timeless beauty of Hội An, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique blend of cultures, stunning architecture, and vibrant street life.

Lunch at Bun Cha Ta Hoi An

For lunch, we stopped at Bun Cha Ta Hoi An. This restaurant specializes in Bun Cha, a traditional Vietnamese dish featuring grilled pork served over vermicelli noodles with fresh herbs and a dipping sauce. The owner, Katy, was incredibly warm and welcoming. She walked us through how to eat Bun Cha, which was a first for us. The combination of flavors was incredible – the smoky pork, the fresh herbs, and the tangy dipping sauce created a symphony in my mouth. We also tried the fried spring rolls, which were crispy and delicious. It was, without a doubt, one of the best meals I've had in Vietnam so far.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Bun Cha Ta Hoi An, where every dish tells a story and every sip delights your senses.

Shopping at Reaching Out Arts & Crafts

In the afternoon, we visited Reaching Out Arts & Crafts. This shop is a social enterprise that provides opportunities for people with disabilities to learn skills and gain meaningful employment. I was deeply moved by their mission and the beautiful handcrafted items they create. I bought a few gifts for my family back in Kenya, knowing that my purchase was supporting a worthy cause. The ceramics, textiles, and jewelry were all exquisite, each piece telling a story of tradition and resilience.


Explore the artistry of Vietnam at Reaching Out Arts & Crafts, a gift shop supporting local artisans with unique handcrafted treasures.

Dinner in a Secret Garden

As evening approached, we made our way to Secret Garden Hoian for dinner. This restaurant is tucked away in a hidden laneway, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling streets. The ambiance was magical, with lush greenery and soft lighting creating a romantic atmosphere. We dined on traditional Vietnamese dishes, each bursting with flavor and freshness. The beef shank stewed in coconut milk was a particular highlight, as were the fresh spring rolls. It was the perfect way to unwind after a busy day.


Experience the vibrant flavors of Vietnam at Secret Garden Hoi An, where culinary delights meet serene surroundings.

An Irish Nightcap

To end our first day in Hoi An, we decided to check out The Shamrock Irish Pub Hoi An. It might seem odd to visit an Irish pub in Vietnam, but we were curious about this blend of cultures. The pub was cozy and lively, with vintage Irish memorabilia adorning the walls. We enjoyed a few pints of Guinness while listening to live music performed by talented local musicians. It was a fun and unexpected way to cap off our day, a touch of Ireland in the heart of Vietnam. Jan felt right at home, reminiscing about our trips to Ireland and the familiar pub atmosphere.


Experience the best of Irish hospitality and local flavor at The Shamrock Irish Pub in Hoi An, Vietnam.

Final Thoughts on Day One

Our first day in Hoi An was a whirlwind of experiences. From exploring ancient villages to savoring local cuisine and finding Irish charm, it was an unforgettable introduction to this beautiful town. The people are warm and welcoming, the food is delicious, and the culture is rich and vibrant. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings, as we plan to explore My Son Sanctuary and take a boat trip on the Thu Bồn River. I am particularly looking forward to breakfast at Tra Que Water Wheel Restaurant & Cooking classes, and perhaps learning a few new culinary skills.



Despite forgetting my travel adapter and raincoat, I feel well-prepared for the days ahead. Hoi An has already captured my heart, and I can’t wait to delve deeper into its wonders. This trip with my friends is off to a fantastic start, and I know there are many more adventures to come.