Family Adventure in the Enchanting Hoi An Ancient Town

Stepping Back in Time and Grooving to Local Rhythms

Today was a beautiful blend of history and culture, a day where the echoes of the past harmonized with the vibrant melodies of the present. Hoi An continues to enchant me with its ability to preserve its heritage while embracing the joys of contemporary life. It's a town that speaks to the soul, and I'm so grateful to be sharing these experiences with Hans and Leila.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Tin Tin Restaurant-Bar. The cozy atmosphere and the friendly staff made us feel right at home. I ordered a steaming bowl of Cao Lau, a local noodle specialty, while Hans enjoyed a hearty portion of pork ginger. Leila, ever the smoothie enthusiast, opted for a fresh mango smoothie. It was the perfect start to a day filled with exploration.


Discover exquisite Vietnamese flavors at Tin Tin Restaurant-Bar in Hội An - where every dish tells a story.

After breakfast, we set out to explore the Quan Thang Ancient House. This 18th-century house, once owned by a wealthy Chinese merchant, is a mesmerizing blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural styles. As we stepped through the front door, it felt like stepping back in time. The scent of aged wood filled the air, and the dim light filtering through the carved wooden shutters created a warm, nostalgic glow.


Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Quan Thang Ancient House in Hoi An, a must-see gem that captures the essence of Vietnamese culture.

I ran my hand along the old wooden railings, imagining the countless others who had done the same centuries ago. Leila was fascinated by the hand-carved wooden panels depicting mythical creatures, while Hans, with his keen eye for detail, admired the delicate mother-of-pearl inlays. The house is still privately owned, which gives it a personal, almost intimate feel. The family has done an exceptional job of preserving its original architecture.

As a cultural event coordinator, I was particularly drawn to the way the house seamlessly blended different cultural influences. It's a testament to Hoi An's history as a bustling trading port, where merchants from all over the world came together to exchange goods and ideas. Walking through the courtyard, I could almost hear the echoes of their voices, the rustling of silk, and the clinking of coins.

The Quan Thang Ancient House wasn't overly grand, but there was something about its timeworn walls and intricate carvings that quietly took my breath away. It felt like a living piece of history, a place where you could slow down, escape the buzz of the streets outside, and really feel the weight of the past pressing gently around you. Despite the crowds, the house maintained its charm, offering a serene escape into Hoi An's rich heritage.

History is not the past but a map of the past, drawn from a particular point of view.

Next on our itinerary was Bài Chòi Hội An, a traditional Vietnamese game and performance art. This unique art form combines elements of a game, theater, and music, and it's a truly captivating experience. The performance takes place in a series of small bamboo huts, where players sit and listen to the rhythmic ডাকs of the Bài Chòi performers.


Discover the vibrant cultural heritage of Vietnam at Bài Chòi Hội An, where traditional art and community come together in harmony.

The performers, dressed in traditional costumes, sing and chant verses that correspond to the cards being drawn. The verses are often humorous and witty, and the performers' animated expressions and gestures add to the entertainment. Leila was particularly amused by the antics of the performers, and she clapped her hands with delight every time someone won a prize.

Even though I couldn't understand all the words, I was captivated by the energy and enthusiasm of the performers. It was a beautiful example of how art can bring people together, transcending language and cultural barriers. It was easy to see why Bài Chòi has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

After immersing ourselves in the world of Bài Chòi, our stomachs started to rumble, reminding us that it was time for lunch. We decided to try Cao Cao Grasshopper, a restaurant known for its local specialties. Hans, ever the adventurous one, ordered the restaurant's namesake dish, while I opted for a more familiar bowl of Pho. Leila, predictably, chose the spring rolls, which she happily dipped in peanut sauce.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Cao Cao Grasshopper in Hội An—a vibrant restaurant and bar perfect for food enthusiasts.

In the evening, we had dinner at Vy's Market Restaurant. This unique restaurant is designed to resemble a traditional Vietnamese market, with different stalls offering a variety of local dishes. It's a great place to sample a wide range of Vietnamese cuisine in one sitting. I tried the Banh Mi with Tofu and it was delicious. Hans enjoyed the Hoi An chicken rice.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Vietnam at Vy's Market Restaurant, where authentic cuisine meets hands-on cooking classes in Hoi An.

To cap off the evening, we ventured to Woop Woop Bar. This bar is known for being LGBT-friendly. It had a relaxed atmosphere and a lovely garden. We enjoyed some cocktails and reflected on the day's adventures. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with history, culture, and delicious food.


Experience the vibrant nightlife at Woop Woop Bar in Hội An, where creative cocktails and friendly vibes await every traveler.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience Hoi An with my family. It's a town that has captured my heart, and I know that the memories we're creating here will last a lifetime. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Sunset view point and take a ride on an Old town Lantern boat, which I am very much looking forward to.

Before I close, I must mention how fortunate I feel to be sharing this journey with Hans and Leila. Their presence enriches every experience, and their perspectives add depth to my understanding of the world. It's a privilege to witness their growth and discovery, and I cherish every moment we spend together.

And with that, I bid you goodnight from Hoi An. May your own travels be filled with as much joy, wonder, and connection as mine.