Family Adventure in the Enchanting Hoi An Ancient Town

Coastal Bliss and Cultural Finds in Hoi An

Today was a delightful mix of seaside relaxation and cultural exploration here in Hoi An. The kind of day where you feel the sun on your skin, taste the local flavors, and find something special to take home. It was one of those days that perfectly encapsulates the charm of this ancient town.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Circle Restaurant | Hoi An Burgers and Tacos by Circle Cafe. It might seem odd to start our Vietnamese adventure with burgers, but Leila was particularly excited, and Hans was keen to try their famous Juicy Lucy. I opted for something a little more local – the Hangover Noodles, which were flavorful and just what I needed to kickstart the day. The friendly staff made us feel right at home, and it was a great start to our beach day.


Experience the best burgers and tacos in Hoi An at Circle Restaurant - where Vietnamese flavors meet international favorites.

After breakfast, we headed to Cua Dai Beach. The weather in Hoi An in November is quite pleasant, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 23°C to 28°C. There can be rain this time of year, and while the sun was shining, we made sure to pack our rain ponchos, remembering how quickly the weather can change. The beach was beautiful, though I couldn't help but notice the reports of erosion affecting the coastline. It's a stark reminder of the challenges this beautiful area faces. Still, we found a spot to relax, Leila built sandcastles, and Hans enjoyed a swim in the warm waters.


Discover the tranquil charm of Cua Dai Beach, where soft sands and azure waters create the perfect getaway in Hoi An, Vietnam.

We then ventured to Tan Thanh Beach, also known as An Bang 2 Beach. This beach is known for being a bit less crowded than An Bang Beach, offering a more peaceful atmosphere. We strolled along the shore, enjoying the sea breeze and the views of the Cham Islands in the distance. Leila collected seashells, and we all enjoyed the tranquility of this coastal spot.


Experience the tranquility of Tan Thanh Beach in Hoi An, Vietnam – a serene getaway with stunning sunsets and vibrant local culture.

The beauty of Hoi An lies not just in its ancient architecture but in the simple joys of experiencing its beaches and embracing its vibrant culture.

For lunch, we decided to try Bun Cha Ta Hoi An. I had heard so much about bun cha, a traditional Hanoi dish of grilled pork and noodles, and I was eager to try it. The restaurant was cozy, and the owner was incredibly welcoming, explaining how to properly enjoy the dish. The bun cha was delicious – the grilled pork was flavorful, and the combination of noodles, fresh herbs, and dipping sauce was simply divine. Even Leila, who can be a picky eater, enjoyed it! It was interesting to learn that Bun Cha Ta has locations in both Hanoi and Hoi An, bringing this northern specialty to central Vietnam.


Experience authentic Vietnamese flavors at Bun Cha Ta Hoi An, where every bite tells a story of culinary tradition.

After a satisfying lunch, it was time for some shopping. We visited Unique Hoi An Fashion, a local shop known for its custom-made clothing. Hoi An is famous for its tailors, and I was excited to find something special. I was on the lookout for a traditional Ao Dai, and Leila wanted a new dress. We spent a delightful couple of hours browsing through fabrics and designs, and the shop assistants were incredibly helpful. I decided to get a silk Ao Dai made in a deep blue, reminiscent of the Afghan lapis lazuli I remember from my childhood in Bamyan. Leila chose a vibrant, colorful dress that she can wear back in Potsdam. It’s wonderful to support local artisans and take home a piece of Hoi An's unique style.


Explore Unique Hoi An Fashion for custom-tailored clothing and exquisite fabrics, capturing the essence of Vietnamese craftsmanship in every stitch.

As the day drew to a close, we headed to CHÂU Kitchen & Bar for dinner. This restaurant is known for its fusion cuisine, blending local flavors with international techniques. The atmosphere was elegant and romantic, with soft lighting and beautiful décor. We started with some fresh seafood spring rolls, followed by Iron Beefsteak, a dish that Chau Kitchen is known for. The flavors were exquisite, and the presentation was stunning. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with sun, sand, and cultural discoveries.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at CHÂU Kitchen & Bar in Hoi An - where tradition meets contemporary flair.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Hoi An's cultural side, visiting the Rehahn Gallery and The Timeless Hoi An. We’ll also try Lim Dining Room for breakfast, MIX Greek Restaurant Hoi An for lunch and Firefly Hoi An for dinner. And perhaps, if time allows, we will visit The Shamrock Irish Pub Hoi An. I am looking forward to another day of exploration and immersion in this enchanting town.

Today reminded me of the importance of embracing both relaxation and exploration while traveling. Hoi An offers the perfect blend of both, and I am grateful for the opportunity to experience it with my family. It’s these shared moments that create lasting memories, and I am already cherishing the experiences we’ve had here.

Back at the Hoi An Merrily De Art Hotel, Leila is fast asleep, dreaming of sandcastles and colorful dresses. Hans is reading a book by the pool, enjoying the quiet evening. As for me, I’m reflecting on the day, feeling grateful for the simple joys of travel and the opportunity to share them with my loved ones.


Experience comfort and convenience at Hoi An Merrily De Art Hotel, a cozy retreat just steps away from the vibrant heart of Hoi An.

I almost forgot! I saw that they recently discovered a shipwreck at one of the beaches. It had been buried for months and months, but resurfaced briefly. How fascinating! Maybe we'll check it out tomorrow if it's still visible.