Cultural and Culinary Explorations in Hoi An

A Day of Enchantment in Hoi An

Today was a day filled with the kind of magic that only Hoi An can conjure. Maximilian and I dove headfirst into the heart of this ancient town, soaking up its vibrant culture and savoring every moment. From crafting our own lanterns to navigating the bustling night market and indulging in exquisite Vietnamese cuisine, it was a day of pure bliss.

Our morning began with a delightful breakfast at Le Petit Bistro Hoi An. The charming atmosphere and delicious pastries were the perfect start to a day of exploration. Maximilian, ever the early bird, was already snapping photos of the quaint streets as we sipped our coffee. I opted for a classic croissant, while he chose a local pastry that he declared was ‘surprisingly delightful’.


Experience the essence of French cuisine at Le Petit Bistro Hoi An – where authentic flavors meet charming ambiance.

Next on our itinerary was the Phố Hội Lantern Workshop. I’ve always been captivated by the colorful lanterns that adorn the streets of Hoi An, and I was eager to learn the art of making them myself. The workshop was a truly immersive experience. We were greeted by a local artisan who shared the history and cultural significance of these beautiful creations.


Discover the enchanting art of lantern making at Phố Hội Lantern Workshop in Hội An, Vietnam, and create your own beautiful keepsake.

Under her patient guidance, we carefully selected our silk fabrics and bamboo frames. I chose a vibrant mix of blues and greens, while Maximilian opted for more traditional reds and golds. It was fascinating to learn the intricate steps involved in crafting a lantern, from shaping the bamboo to stretching the silk and adding the final touches. I even learned that hanging lanterns in front of your house is believed to bring good luck, happiness, and wealth.

The true essence of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in creating something beautiful with your own hands, a tangible memory to cherish forever.

As someone who loves to bring a piece of the places I visit back home, this was the perfect way to do so. Plus, I love supporting local artisans and their craft. I can just imagine hanging my self-made lantern in our Berlin apartment, a colorful reminder of our adventures in Hoi An. I think it will fit in well with our eclectic collection of travel mementos!

After our creative endeavor, we were ready for lunch. We decided to try Cham Spa & Massage, a place that came highly recommended not just for their spa treatments, but also for their dining experience. Maximilian and I were both intrigued. I opted for something light, while Maximilian chose a traditional Vietnamese dish. It was such a unique experience to enjoy a delicious meal in such a serene and tranquil setting. It was a nice change of pace from some of the more bustling restaurants we had visited.


Discover ultimate relaxation at Cham Spa & Massage in Da Nang - your haven for rejuvenating treatments and delicious dining.

With our batteries recharged, we ventured into the heart of Hoi An's Ancient Town, eager to explore the Souvenir Hoi An Shop. The shop was a treasure trove of local crafts and souvenirs, from silk scarves and handcrafted jewelry to traditional ceramics and wooden carvings. I picked up a few small gifts for friends and family back home, while Maximilian found a beautiful hand-painted mask that he plans to hang in his office.


Explore authentic Vietnamese culture at Souvenir Hoi An Shop, your go-to destination for unique gifts and local handicrafts in Hoi An.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to the Hội An Night Market. The market was a sensory explosion of colors, sounds, and smells. Lanterns illuminated the streets, creating a magical atmosphere as vendors hawked their wares and street performers entertained the crowds. We wandered through the maze of stalls, admiring the intricate handicrafts, sampling local snacks, and soaking up the lively ambiance.


Discover the vibrant Hội An Night Market, where culture, cuisine, and craftsmanship converge in a magical evening setting.

I've always found night markets to be such a unique and exciting experience, and the Hội An Night Market was no exception. The energy of the crowd, the vibrant colors of the lanterns, and the delicious aromas of street food all combined to create an unforgettable atmosphere.

For dinner, we indulged in a culinary feast at Madam Kieu Vietnamese Restaurant. The restaurant is known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and charming ambiance. We savored every bite of our meal, from the flavorful pho to the crispy spring rolls and the fragrant cao lau. Maximilian, who is always up for trying new things, even sampled a local delicacy that he described as ‘surprisingly delicious.’


Discover the rich flavors of Vietnam at Madam Kieu Restaurant in Hội An - where tradition meets taste!

As we walked back to our homestay, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the incredible experiences we had shared today. Hoi An has a way of captivating your heart and soul, and I know that the memories we made today will stay with us long after we leave.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Hoi An Village Experience and visit the Diep Dong Nguyen House. We'll also be trying out some new restaurants, including Dng.coffee for breakfast, Bun Cha Ta Hoi An for lunch, and Kumquat BBQ Restaurant Cooking Class for dinner. And of course, no trip to Hoi An would be complete without a visit to The Shamrock Irish Pub Hoi An ! I'm excited to see what new adventures await us.

Even though the weather in Hoi An in November can be a bit unpredictable , with occasional rain showers and high humidity, it only adds to the town's charm. I made sure to pack light, breathable clothing, a light jacket, and an umbrella. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast in the morning and plan your activities accordingly.

Hoi An has truly captured my heart. The blend of history, culture, and cuisine is simply irresistible. I can't wait to see what the rest of our trip holds!

I'm also reminded that I need to find a power adapter soon! It's definitely something I should have remembered to pack. And a lightweight backpack would have been useful today, too.

Until tomorrow,
Jennifer