Cultural and Culinary Explorations in Hoi An

A Day of Discovery in Hoi An

Today was all about diving deeper into the heart of Hoi An, beyond the well-trodden tourist paths. Maximilian and I set out to explore the local crafts, taste authentic flavors, and experience the everyday life of this charming town. It’s days like these that truly make a trip memorable, when you connect with the culture and the people in a meaningful way.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at SENSE COFFEE and CRAFT BEER. It might seem a bit early for craft beer , but I assure you, the coffee was the main draw this morning! The café had a cozy atmosphere, perfect for planning our day. Maximilian enjoyed a robust Vietnamese coffee, while I opted for a lighter latte. It was the perfect way to fuel up before our motorbike adventure.


Experience Da Nang's best local brews at SENSE COFFEE and CRAFT BEER - where quality meets comfort in every sip.

Soon after, we met our guide from Hoi An Adventures - Motorbike Day Tour. I was initially a bit nervous about riding a motorbike through the bustling streets, but our guide was fantastic, ensuring our safety and comfort every step of the way. Maximilian, of course, was in his element, loving the feeling of the open road. We zipped through the countryside, passing rice paddies and local villages, getting a glimpse into rural Vietnamese life. It was so different from the busy streets of Hoi An, a welcome change of pace. I am always seeking new adventures, and this certainly fit the bill!


Unleash your adventurous spirit with Hoi An's thrilling motorbike tours, exploring Vietnam's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

The best journeys are the ones that lead you to unexpected discoveries and deeper connections.

One of the highlights of our motorbike tour was visiting a local family who made traditional rice paper. We watched as they skillfully crafted each sheet, learning about the process and the importance of rice paper in Vietnamese cuisine. We even got to try our hand at making our own, which was much harder than it looked! It’s moments like these, sharing in the traditions of the locals, that make traveling so rewarding. I love taking photos of these authentic moments, capturing the essence of the culture.

Next on our agenda was a visit to Unique Hoi An Fashion. I’d heard so much about Hoi An's tailoring scene , and I was eager to experience it firsthand. This particular shop stood out for its quality fabrics and skilled tailors. I ended up commissioning a custom-made dress, choosing a beautiful silk fabric and a design that I had been dreaming about. Maximilian, ever the patient husband, helped me sift through countless fabric swatches and offered his input on the design. I can’t wait to see the finished product!


Unique Hoi An Fashion: Custom tailoring and exquisite fashion accessories in the heart of Hoi An, Vietnam.

After our fashion stop, we headed to Sabirama Cooking Tour & Restaurant for lunch. This wasn’t just a meal; it was an immersive culinary experience. The tour started with a visit to a local market, where we learned about the various herbs, spices, and ingredients used in Vietnamese cooking. Then, we took a boat trip to the restaurant, which was nestled in a peaceful spot surrounded by coconut trees. The cooking class itself was so much fun. We learned to make several traditional dishes, including fresh spring rolls and a flavorful pho. And of course, the best part was getting to eat our creations! Maximilian was particularly proud of his spring rolls, declaring them the best he’d ever tasted. I must admit, they were pretty delicious.


Explore the essence of Vietnamese cuisine with immersive cooking classes and delightful dining experiences at Sabirama Cooking Tour & Restaurant.

In the afternoon, we joined Hoi An Handicraft Tours to explore the local crafts scene. Hoi An is known for its skilled artisans , and we were excited to learn more about their work. Our first stop was a lantern-making workshop , where we watched as a craftsman skillfully created beautiful lanterns from bamboo and silk. We even got to try our hand at making our own, which was a bit challenging but also incredibly rewarding. I chose a vibrant red silk for my lantern, while Maximilian opted for a more subdued blue. They will certainly be a reminder of our trip when we return home to Berlin.


Experience the rich traditions of Vietnamese craftsmanship at Hoi An Handicraft Tours, where art meets culture in a hands-on workshop.

Our next stop was a pottery village , where we learned about the traditional techniques used to create ceramic pieces. We watched as a potter skillfully shaped clay on a spinning wheel, creating beautiful vases and bowls. It was fascinating to see the artistry and skill that went into each piece. I even bought a small ceramic bowl as a souvenir, a reminder of the talented artisans we met today.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort for dinner. While technically not in Hoi An, the resort was well worth the short drive. The resort itself was stunning, with breathtaking views of the ocean and lush surroundings. We chose to dine at Citron, known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and unique dining pods. We savored every bite, enjoying the delicious food and the romantic atmosphere. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience unparalleled luxury at InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort - where breathtaking views meet world-class amenities in Vietnam.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Marble Mountains and Chùa Linh Ứng in Da Nang, continuing our exploration of the region's cultural and natural wonders. Maximilian is particularly excited about exploring the caves and temples, while I'm looking forward to taking in the panoramic views from the mountains. I am certain it will be another day filled with adventure and discovery!

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel: the opportunity to immerse myself in new cultures, connect with local people, and experience the world in a meaningful way. Hoi An has captured my heart with its charm, its culture, and its culinary delights. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!