Exploring the Cultural Charms of Hoi An with Family

Exploring Hoi An's Charms: A Day of Rivers, Lanterns, and Culinary Delights

Today was another beautiful day in Hoi An, filled with unique experiences that I'm excited to share. From the tranquil waterways of Rừng Dừa Bảy Mẫu to the bustling streets of Phố Đi Bộ, every moment was a delightful immersion into Vietnamese culture. David, Thandi and I embraced the day with open hearts, ready to explore and savor all that Hoi An had to offer.


Explore the serene beauty and traditional culture of Rừng Dừa Bảy Mẫu - a hidden gem in Hội An's lush mangrove forests.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Red Dragon Restaurant and Cooking Class. I remember when we first arrived in Vietnam, I was a bit nervous about the food, but I must say, the culinary scene here has completely won me over. The Red Dragon Restaurant was no exception. We enjoyed a delicious spread of local delicacies, fueling up for our morning adventure. It’s always a pleasure to start the day with a good meal, especially when you know you have a day packed with exploration ahead.

After breakfast, we set off to Rừng Dừa Bảy Mẫu Hội An - Làng Quê, the Bay Mau Coconut Forest. This unique destination is only about 3km from Hoi An Ancient Town. As we approached, the scenery transformed into a lush, green paradise. The area is known for its extensive water coconut palms, creating a serene and picturesque landscape reminiscent of the Mekong Delta. We hopped onto a traditional basket boat, a ‘thuyền thúng,’ and our friendly local guide paddled us gently through the narrow waterways.

The experience was incredibly peaceful. The gentle rocking of the boat, the soft rustling of the coconut leaves, and the occasional splash of water created a symphony of nature. Our guide shared stories about the history of the area, explaining how it once served as a revolutionary base during the French and American wars. It was fascinating to learn about the area's past while being surrounded by such natural beauty. Thandi was particularly captivated by the little crabs scurrying along the banks and the skillful boatmen who performed impressive spinning feats in their basket boats. She was in peals of laughter, something I will cherish forever.

Sometimes, the most beautiful experiences are found in the simplest of moments, like gliding through a tranquil coconut forest or wandering through lantern-lit streets.

One of the highlights was watching the locals create souvenirs from coconut leaves. Thandi was thrilled when our boat lady crafted her a little grasshopper ring. These small, handmade gifts are such a sweet reminder of the simple joys in life. Apparently, you can also try your hand at making these souvenirs.

After our serene river journey, we were ready for lunch. We headed to the Old Garden Restaurant (Vườn Xưa), a charming spot tucked away in a small alley. This restaurant is known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We ordered a variety of dishes, including the Cao Lau, a local noodle specialty, and Banh Xeo, crispy Vietnamese pancakes. The food was absolutely delicious, bursting with fresh flavors and local spices.


Discover the charm of traditional Vietnamese cuisine at Old Garden Restaurant in Hội An's historic Old Town.

The Old Garden Restaurant truly lived up to its name, with lush greenery and traditional décor creating a relaxing ambiance. It felt like stepping into someone's home, a feeling that resonates with me, reminding me of the warm hospitality I grew up with in Malawi. David was particularly impressed with the Banh Xeo, while Thandi enjoyed the simple yet flavorful chicken rice. It was a delightful culinary experience that added another layer to our appreciation of Hoi An’s culture.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we ventured into the heart of Hoi An’s ancient town to explore Phố Đi Bộ Hội An, the pedestrian streets. As the sun began to set, the streets transformed into a magical lantern-lit wonderland. The colorful lanterns cast a warm, inviting glow, creating a romantic and enchanting atmosphere. Thandi was mesmerized by the vibrant colors, and we spent a leisurely time strolling through the streets, soaking in the sights and sounds.


Experience authentic Vietnamese flavors at Phố Đi Bộ Hội An, where traditional cooking meets a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Hội An.

The pedestrian streets are a hub of activity, with vendors selling everything from silk scarves to handmade jewelry. We enjoyed browsing the shops, admiring the local craftsmanship and picking up a few souvenirs. The atmosphere was lively and festive, with street performers entertaining the crowds and the aroma of delicious street food filling the air.

For dinner, we chose Hai Cafe Courtyard BBQ & Restaurant in Hoi An Old Town. This restaurant is known for its open-air kitchen and barbecue. The setting was perfect, with chefs cooking in large woks and traditional barbecues, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. We indulged in a variety of grilled seafood and meats, all cooked with fresh herbs and served with flavorful Vietnamese sauces. The food was exceptional, and the lively ambiance made it a memorable dining experience.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Hai Cafe Courtyard BBQ & Restaurant in the heart of Hoi An Old Town, where flavors meet tradition.

To cap off our evening, David and I decided to sneak away for a quick drink at Woop Woop Bar, while Thandi was fast asleep. This cozy bar is known for its relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff. It’s also known as an LGBT-friendly bar. We enjoyed a couple of cocktails, reminiscing about our day and planning our adventures for tomorrow. It was the perfect way to unwind and savor the last moments of our day in Hoi An.


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

As I reflect on today, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience such unique and enriching moments with my family. Hoi An has a way of capturing your heart with its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Hoi An Handicraft Village and the Cam Thanh Rice Fields, to see even more of the local culture. I can't wait to see what new adventures await us!

I am also thinking about how quickly this trip is passing by. We are already on Day 10, with only a few days left before we head back to Bristol. I am determined to make the most of every moment and create lasting memories with David and Thandi.

Good night from beautiful Hoi An!