Family Adventure in the Enchanting Hoi An Ancient Town

Illuminating Hoi An: Lanterns, Culture, and Culinary Delights

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of Hoi An's cultural tapestry. From the delicate art of lantern making to exploring the rich history within the Museum of Folk Culture, and savoring the local flavors, every moment was a vibrant brushstroke painting a picture of this enchanting town. It was a day filled with creativity, learning, and delicious discoveries that I am excited to share.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at the Red Gecko Restaurant. The atmosphere was cozy, and the food was a perfect start to energize us for the day's adventures. Hans and Leila particularly enjoyed the traditional Vietnamese coffee, a strong and sweet concoction that definitely provided a needed jolt. I opted for a lighter fare of fresh fruit and yogurt, a refreshing choice in the warm morning air.

After breakfast, we embarked on our lantern-making adventure. The Lantern Making Class was an experience I had eagerly anticipated, knowing Hoi An is renowned for its beautiful lanterns. As a cultural event coordinator, I'm always fascinated by the stories behind traditional crafts. We chose a local workshop, and the experience was nothing short of magical.


Experience the art of Vietnamese lantern making in Hoi An, where tradition and creativity illuminate your journey.
The workshop was a kaleidoscope of colors, with silk fabrics in every hue imaginable. Our instructor, a master lantern maker, greeted us with traditional herbal tea and shared the history and cultural significance of these iconic symbols. Lanterns, he explained, are believed to bring luck, happiness, and wealth to those who hang them in their homes. I found this belief particularly touching, a simple yet profound expression of hope and prosperity.

We chose a lotus shape for our lanterns, a symbol of purity and rebirth, and began the intricate process of crafting the bamboo frame. It was more challenging than I had anticipated, requiring patience and a steady hand. Leila, surprisingly, took to it with ease, her nimble fingers expertly maneuvering the bamboo stakes. Hans, on the other hand, struggled a bit, resulting in a slightly lopsided frame that brought laughter and camaraderie to our little crafting corner.

Once the frame was complete, we selected our silk fabrics. I chose a vibrant combination of reds and golds, reminiscent of the Afghan sunsets I remember from my childhood. Hans opted for blues and greens, while Leila, ever the individualist, went for a playful mix of pinks and purples. As we carefully stretched the silk over the frames, the lanterns began to take shape, each one reflecting our unique personalities.

The final step was adding the tassels and embellishments, delicate details that brought our creations to life. As I hung my finished lantern, I felt a surge of pride and accomplishment. It wasn't just a souvenir; it was a tangible piece of Hoi An's soul, crafted with my own hands. I knew this lantern would hold a special place in our home, a reminder of this beautiful day and the rich culture we experienced.

In every corner of Hoi An, there's a story waiting to be discovered, a tradition waiting to be embraced.

Next on our itinerary was the Museum of Folk Culture. Housed in a beautifully preserved wooden house, the museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the daily life and cultural heritage of the people of Hoi An. As we walked through the various exhibits, I was struck by the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the local artisans. From traditional fishing tools to intricate pottery and silk weaving, every artifact told a story of a community deeply connected to its land and traditions.


Explore Vietnam's vibrant heritage at the Museum of Folk Culture in Hoi An, showcasing traditional crafts, folklore, and local customs.
Leila was particularly captivated by the exhibits showcasing traditional wedding customs. The elaborate costumes and ceremonial objects sparked her curiosity, and she peppered me with questions about the rituals and symbolism. It was a wonderful opportunity to share with her the importance of preserving cultural traditions and respecting different ways of life.

The museum's collection of folk art was equally impressive. From wood carvings to porcelain reliefs and bronze statues, the artwork reflected the creativity and talent of generations of local artisans. I was particularly drawn to the sculptures depicting scenes from daily life, capturing the essence of Hoi An's vibrant community.

As we explored the museum, I felt a sense of connection to my own cultural heritage. Growing up in Bamyan, Afghanistan, I was surrounded by rich traditions and artistic expressions. Although circumstances led my family to seek refuge in Germany, I have always cherished my Afghan roots. Visiting the Museum of Folk Culture in Hoi An reminded me of the importance of preserving and celebrating cultural diversity, a mission that is central to my work as a cultural event coordinator.

After immersing ourselves in the cultural treasures of Hoi An, our stomachs began to rumble, signaling it was time for lunch. We decided to try Pho Xua, a local restaurant known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with activity, filled with locals and tourists alike, all eager to savor the flavors of Hoi An.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Pho Xua in Hội An - where every bowl tells a story of tradition and taste.
We ordered a variety of dishes, including the restaurant's namesake, Pho, a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup. The aroma alone was enough to make my mouth water, a fragrant blend of herbs, spices, and savory broth. The Pho was served with a generous helping of fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime, allowing us to customize the flavors to our liking.

Hans, a self-proclaimed Pho aficionado, declared it to be one of the best he had ever tasted. Leila, who can be a picky eater, surprised us by devouring her bowl with gusto. I savored every spoonful, appreciating the complex flavors and the comforting warmth of the soup. It was a culinary experience that truly captured the essence of Hoi An.

In addition to Pho, we also sampled other local specialties, including Banh Xeo, crispy Vietnamese pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. The pancakes were light and airy, with a delightful crunch that contrasted perfectly with the savory filling. We also tried Cao Lau, a unique noodle dish found only in Hoi An, with thick noodles, succulent pork, and a medley of fresh herbs and vegetables. Each dish was a culinary adventure, a testament to the diversity and richness of Vietnamese cuisine.

Before heading back to the hotel, we stopped by Reaching Out Arts & Crafts, a shop that supports artisans with disabilities. I had read about this organization and was eager to support their mission. The shop was filled with beautiful handmade items, from ceramics and jewelry to textiles and woodwork.


Discover unique handmade crafts and support local artisans at Reaching Out Arts & Crafts in Hội An, Vietnam.
As we browsed the shop, we learned about the artisans and their stories. Each piece was crafted with care and skill, a testament to the talent and resilience of these individuals. I was particularly touched by the story of a young woman who had lost her hearing as a child but found a new purpose in creating intricate jewelry. Her creations were exquisite, each piece imbued with her unique artistic vision.

We purchased several items as souvenirs, knowing that our money was going directly to support the artisans and their families. It was a meaningful way to end our day, a reminder that travel can be a force for good, empowering communities and preserving cultural traditions.

As we strolled back to the Hoi An Merrily De Art Hotel, the town was bathed in the warm glow of lanterns. The streets were alive with activity, filled with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the magic of Hoi An. I held Hans' hand a little tighter, and we watched Leila skip ahead, her laughter echoing in the night. I thought about how lucky I am to be sharing these experiences with my family.


Experience comfort and convenience at Hoi An Merrily De Art Hotel, a cozy retreat just steps away from the vibrant heart of Hoi An.
Back at the hotel, Leila insisted on taking a dip in the indoor pool, her energy seemingly boundless. Hans and I watched her splash and play, our hearts filled with joy and gratitude. As I reflect on our day, I am filled with a sense of contentment. We crafted a lantern, explored the Museum of Folk Culture, savored the local flavors, and supported artisans with disabilities. It was a day of cultural immersion, a day of connection, and a day of creating lasting memories.

Tomorrow, we plan to continue our exploration of Hoi An, with visits to the Diep Dong Nguyen House and the Nguyen Tuong Family Chapel. We'll also be stopping by Hart Hoi An - Upcycled Home Decor, to see what treasures we can find. I am excited to see what new adventures await us in this enchanting town.

In the meantime, I will cherish the memories of today, the vibrant colors of the lanterns, the rich history of the museum, the delicious flavors of the cuisine, and the heartwarming stories of the artisans. Hoi An, you have captured our hearts!