Exploring the Cultural Charms of Hoi An with Family

First Impressions of Hoi An

After months of planning, dreaming, and packing (and inevitably forgetting a few essentials!), we finally arrived in Hoi An today. The journey from Bristol, with a stopover in Da Nang, was long but so worth it! The air here is warm and filled with the scent of spices and something sweetly floral that I can’t quite place. It's a world away from the crisp December air of Bristol, and I already feel a sense of excitement bubbling up inside me.

Our arrival was seamless, thanks to pre-booked transportation, and we quickly settled into the Hadana Boutique Resort Hoi An. The resort is a beautiful blend of modern comfort and traditional Vietnamese architecture. Thandi was immediately captivated by the colorful lanterns hanging in the lobby, and David was impressed by the serene courtyard. After a quick freshening up, we were ready to dive straight into the heart of Hoi An Ancient Town.


Experience luxury and tranquility at Hadana Boutique Resort Hoi An, where comfort meets culture in Vietnam's charming ancient town.

The weather in Hoi An in December is mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures averaging between 22°C and 25°C. Though December is considered the tail end of the rainy season, the showers are infrequent and brief, leaving plenty of sunshine for exploring. I packed light layers, just in case, and comfortable walking shoes – a must for navigating the cobblestone streets. I did, however, forget the insect repellent and sunglasses, a rookie error on my part! I will need to pick those up tomorrow.

Stepping Back in Time

As we stepped into Hoi An Ancient Town, it felt like stepping back in time. The streets are narrow, lined with ancient houses adorned with vibrant yellow walls and cascading bougainvillea. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it's easy to see why. The architecture is a beautiful blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences, a testament to the town's history as a major trading port from the 15th to the 19th centuries.


Immerse yourself in the enchanting history and vibrant culture of Hoi An Ancient Town, where every corner reveals a story.

Our first stop was the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Its unique architecture and intricate carvings are truly impressive. Thandi was fascinated by the monkeys and dogs that guard the entrance, each with its own story and symbolism. We took our time crossing the bridge, soaking in the atmosphere and snapping photos. The bridge is more than just a structure; it’s a symbol of Hoi An's rich history and cultural fusion.

Hoi An is a sensory feast, a place where the past and present intertwine, creating a tapestry of experiences that captivate the heart and soul.

A Cultural Immersion at the Museum of Folk Culture

Next, we visited the Museum of Folk Culture, housed in a beautifully preserved 150-year-old Chinese trading house. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily life and traditions of the local people. Thandi was particularly interested in the exhibits showcasing traditional costumes and wedding customs. I was captivated by the displays of handicrafts and tools from the various traditional villages in and around Hoi An.


Explore Vietnam's vibrant heritage at the Museum of Folk Culture in Hoi An, showcasing traditional crafts, folklore, and local customs.

The museum is not just a collection of artifacts; it's a living piece of history. The architecture of the building itself is stunning, with its wooden beams, intricate carvings, and overall ambiance transporting you back in time. We even enjoyed picturesque views of the Thu Bon River from the upper floors. It was a great way to gain a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Hoi An.

A Culinary Journey Begins

Of course, no trip to Hoi An would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. For breakfast, we started our day at HOME Hoi An - HOME Vietnamese Restaurant. The restaurant is located in the heart of the Ancient Town, making it a convenient spot to grab a bite before exploring. The ambiance was elegant, and the service was exceptional. We enjoyed a traditional Vietnamese breakfast of *cao lầu* (a local noodle dish) and *cà phê sữa đá* (Vietnamese iced coffee with milk). It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of sightseeing.


Savor authentic Vietnamese flavors at HOME Hoi An - A culinary journey through tradition and taste in the heart of Ancient Town.

Lunch was at Morning Glory Original, a restaurant known for its authentic Central Coast cuisine. The restaurant is named after the morning glory vegetable (*rau muống*), a staple in Vietnamese cuisine. We tried several local specialties, including white rose dumplings and crispy pancakes (*bánh xèo*). Everything was delicious, and the open kitchen allowed us to watch the chefs at work, adding to the experience.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Morning Glory Original in Hoi An – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

Shopping in Hoi An Old Town

After lunch, we strolled through the Hoi An Old Town (Shopping Street), a vibrant hub of activity. The streets are lined with shops selling everything from silk clothing and leather goods to handicrafts and souvenirs. I was particularly drawn to the colorful lanterns that Hoi An is famous for. We spent a pleasant hour wandering through the stalls, admiring the craftsmanship and haggling for a few souvenirs. Thandi picked out a beautiful silk scarf for her grandmother, and David found a leather wallet that he liked. I managed to resist the urge to buy everything in sight, but I did purchase a beautiful hand-painted silk fan. Hoi An is definitely a shopper's paradise!


Experience the enchanting blend of history and culture at Hoi An Old Town Shopping Street, a vibrant hub of artisan shops and local cuisine.

Tran Phu Street is a must-visit for any shopaholic. This vibrant street is filled with shops selling authentic Vietnamese goods. You can find everything from tailor-made clothing to local snacks. It's the perfect place to pick up a memorable keepsake or a unique gift for someone back home.

Lanterns and River Views at Madam Kieu

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Madam Kieu Vietnamese Restaurant for dinner. The restaurant is located on Lantern Street, right across from the Japanese Bridge. The location is perfect, offering stunning views of the Thu Bon River and the lantern-lit streets. The restaurant itself is beautifully decorated in a traditional Vietnamese style, with an airy and spacious ambiance.


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

We enjoyed a delicious meal of traditional Vietnamese dishes, including Hoi An beef pho and grilled beef with leaves. The flavors were vibrant and authentic, and the presentation was beautiful. Thandi especially loved the shrimp and meat spring rolls, while David raved about the Hoi An bread. The service was friendly and attentive, making for a truly memorable dining experience.

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll along the riverfront, soaking in the magical atmosphere. The lanterns cast a warm glow on the water, creating a scene straight out of a fairytale. We watched as boats glided along the river, carrying passengers who released colorful lanterns into the water, each carrying a wish or a prayer. It was a truly enchanting experience.

Looking Ahead

As I sit here writing this, I can still feel the warmth of the Hoi An air on my skin and the taste of Vietnamese coffee on my tongue. Today was a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and flavors, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum and immerse ourselves in the Hoi An Village Experience. We'll also be trying out Nhà hàng Cơm Linh for breakfast, Red Dragon Restaurant and Cooking Class for lunch, and Little Faifo Restaurant for dinner. And, if we have time, we might even check out Market Bar - Market Terrace for a drink.

Hoi An has already captured my heart with its charm, history, and delicious food. I feel so grateful to be here with my family, experiencing this beautiful place together. I know that the next twelve days will be filled with unforgettable memories.

Goodnight from Hoi An!