Exploring the Cultural Charms of Hoi An with Family

Farewell, Hoi An!

As our final day in Hoi An dawned, a bittersweet feeling hung in the air. While we were excited to return home to Bristol, we couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness at leaving this enchanting town. Hoi An had woven its magic around us, and we knew we'd carry its vibrant spirit in our hearts long after we left. Today promised a blend of cultural immersion and souvenir shopping, a perfect way to bid adieu to this Vietnamese gem.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Nhà hàng Cơm Linh. The restaurant was conveniently located in the ancient town. We enjoyed some local delicacies, including a flavorful *cao lầu* and *mì quảng*. Thandi was particularly fond of the *cơm gà*, a simple yet delicious chicken rice dish. Fuelled up for the day, we set off to explore the cultural heart of Hoi An.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Nhà Hàng Cơm Linh, where delightful dishes meet warm hospitality in Hội An.

Our first stop was the Quan Cong Temple. This ancient temple, also known as Ong Pagoda, was established in 1653 by Chinese immigrants. Dedicated to Quan Cong, a revered Chinese military general symbolizing loyalty, sincerity, integrity, and justice, the temple exuded an aura of tranquility and reverence. As we stepped inside, the scent of incense filled the air, mingling with the soft glow of lanterns. The architecture was stunning, with intricate carvings and vibrant colors adorning every surface. Thandi was fascinated by the statues of dragons and mythical creatures that guarded the entrance.


Discover the serene beauty and cultural depth of Quan Cong Temple in Hoi An, a must-visit for travelers seeking spiritual enrichment and historical insight.

We wandered through the temple grounds, admiring the various artifacts and historical relics. David was particularly interested in the horizontal lacquered boards inscribed with Han characters. I found myself drawn to the serene atmosphere of the temple, a welcome respite from the bustling streets outside. We lit incense sticks and offered a small prayer for our family's well-being, grateful for the opportunity to experience such a sacred place.

A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles.

Next on our itinerary was the Rehahn Gallery. I had read so much about Réhahn's work, his ability to capture the soul of Vietnam's diverse ethnic groups through his lens. The gallery was located in a charming old house, its walls adorned with captivating photographs. Réhahn's portraits were more than just images; they were stories etched in time, each face telling a tale of resilience, tradition, and cultural pride.


Explore the enchanting Rehahn Gallery in Hoi An, where art and culture come alive through stunning photography and vibrant displays.

Thandi was particularly drawn to the vibrant costumes and intricate jewelry displayed alongside the photographs. It was a wonderful opportunity to teach her about the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam, a country that has embraced its diversity with such grace and respect. David, always the art enthusiast, engaged in a lively discussion with the gallery staff, learning about Réhahn's techniques and his passion for cultural preservation.

Leaving the gallery, we strolled through the streets of Hoi An, soaking in the last moments of its charm. The December weather was pleasant, with a gentle breeze and warm sunshine. Although there was a chance of rain, we were fortunate to have clear skies for most of the day. As it was the 14th day of the lunar month, we noticed preparations for the Hoi An Lantern Festival. Lanterns adorned every corner, casting a magical glow on the ancient town.

For lunch, we decided to try Pho Xua, a local favorite known for its authentic *phở*. The restaurant was small and bustling, filled with locals and tourists alike. We ordered a steaming bowl of *phở bò*, the broth rich and flavorful, the noodles perfectly cooked. Thandi, surprisingly, devoured her portion, declaring it the best *phở* she had ever tasted. David and I savored every spoonful, appreciating the simplicity and authenticity of this Vietnamese staple.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Pho Xua in Hội An - where every bowl tells a story of tradition and taste.

With our bellies full and our hearts content, we embarked on our final mission: souvenir shopping. I was determined to find some unique mementos to remind us of our time in Hoi An. We stumbled upon OCOP House, a charming shop showcasing local specialties and handicrafts. OCOP House was established in 2020 with the mission of connecting regional specialties and tourists visiting Hoi An.


Discover the essence of Hoi An with unique handicrafts and organic products at OCOP House, your go-to gift shop and cultural experience.

The shop was a treasure trove of Vietnamese artistry, from silk scarves and hand-painted ceramics to intricately carved wooden sculptures. Thandi was particularly drawn to the colorful lanterns, wanting to take a piece of Hoi An's magic back home with her. David, ever the practical one, opted for a set of handcrafted bamboo kitchen utensils. I, on the other hand, couldn't resist purchasing a beautiful hand-embroidered silk painting, a reminder of the exquisite craftsmanship we had witnessed throughout our trip.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Madam Kieu Vietnamese Restaurant for our farewell dinner. This restaurant is known for serving Vietnamese dishes prepared with the freshest local ingredients. The restaurant was located in a prime location on lantern street. The ambiance was warm and inviting, the perfect setting for our final meal in Hoi An. We indulged in a feast of Vietnamese delicacies, savoring every bite of the flavorful spring rolls, the fragrant *cao lầu*, and the succulent grilled seafood.


Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Madam Kieu Restaurant in Hội An – a delightful fusion of flavors and culture awaits every visitor.

The staff at Madam Kieu were incredibly attentive, making us feel like honored guests. They even surprised us with a complimentary dessert, a sweet and creamy coconut pudding that was the perfect ending to our culinary journey. As we raised our glasses in a final toast, we couldn't help but feel grateful for the incredible experiences we had shared in Hoi An. This ancient town had captured our hearts with its beauty, its culture, and its warm and welcoming people.

Tomorrow, we would be embarking on our journey back to Bristol, carrying with us a treasure trove of memories and a longing to return to this enchanting corner of the world. Hoi An, you will be missed, but you will never be forgotten.

As we prepare to leave, I'm reminded of the importance of embracing new experiences, of stepping outside our comfort zones and immersing ourselves in different cultures. It's through these encounters that we grow, that we learn, and that we truly discover the beauty of our world. And who knows, maybe one day we'll find ourselves back in Hoi An, wandering through its lantern-lit streets once more.