Cultural and Culinary Explorations in Hoi An

Rice Paddies and Poetic Evenings

Today, Maximilian and I traded the bustling streets of Hoi An for a serene escape into the surrounding countryside and an immersion into its vibrant culture. It was a day of contrasts, from the tranquil beauty of the rice fields to the dazzling spectacle of a cultural show, all seasoned with the delightful flavors of local cuisine. It's these kinds of days that make me feel so grateful for our decision to explore beyond Berlin, and to share these experiences with all of you.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Tra Que Water Wheel Restaurant & Cooking Classes. I was excited, as I had heard so much about it. What better way to start the day than with a delicious meal surrounded by the beauty of Tra Que's organic herb gardens ? We hopped on our bikes and enjoyed the ride through the countryside, the air crisp and clean, carrying the promise of a beautiful day. Upon arriving, we were greeted with warm smiles and the inviting aroma of Vietnamese herbs. The restaurant itself was charming, with rustic décor that blended seamlessly into its natural surroundings.


Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine and hands-on cooking experiences at Tra Que Water Wheel Restaurant in Hội An.
The breakfast was a feast for the senses, featuring local delicacies prepared with the freshest ingredients from the surrounding gardens. Maximilian particularly enjoyed the Cao Lau noodles, a regional specialty, while I savored the Banh Mi, a crispy baguette filled with flavorful meats and vegetables. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration. I felt very satisfied, and ready to take on the day. I have always believed that food is the portal to understanding a culture, and I was excited to learn more. Maximilian seemed to be in high spirits as well, as he was making jokes about the local ingredients. It felt like we had a private show.

Sometimes, the most profound travel experiences come from embracing the simple beauty of everyday life.

After breakfast, we set off for the Cam Thanh Rice Fields. The November sun cast a golden glow over the landscape, painting the rice paddies in hues of green and gold. We rented bicycles and spent the morning cycling through the narrow lanes that wound their way through the fields. It was an idyllic scene, with farmers tending to their crops and water buffalo grazing peacefully in the distance. I couldn't resist stopping every few minutes to capture the beauty of the landscape with my camera, trying to capture the serenity of the moment. I felt a deep connection to the land and the people who worked it, a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. Maximilian, always the curious one, struck up a conversation with a local farmer, learning about the traditional farming techniques passed down through generations.


Experience the tranquil beauty of Cam Thanh Rice Fields, a must-visit destination in Hoi An, showcasing Vietnam's rich agricultural heritage and stunning landscapes.
For lunch, we ventured to Bale Well restaurant, a hidden gem tucked away in a small alley. This place came highly recommended, and I was eager to try their famous spring rolls. The restaurant was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists all eager to sample their culinary delights. We were seated at a communal table, which added to the convivial atmosphere. The meal was a DIY affair, with a variety of ingredients laid out before us – grilled pork, fresh herbs, crispy pancakes, and rice paper wrappers. We eagerly assembled our own spring rolls, guided by the friendly staff who showed us the proper technique. The flavors were incredible, a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and spicy. Maximilian, ever the adventurous eater, even tried some of the more exotic herbs, much to my amusement.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Bale Well Restaurant in Hội An - a must-visit culinary destination for tourists.
As the sun began to set, we made our way to Hoi An Memories Land, a cultural theme park showcasing Vietnam's rich history and traditions. I had heard so much about the 'Hoi An Memories' show, and I was excited to experience it firsthand. The park itself was beautifully designed, with traditional Vietnamese architecture and colorful lanterns illuminating the pathways. We wandered through the various villages, each representing a different period in Vietnamese history, immersing ourselves in the sights and sounds of the past. I was particularly fascinated by the traditional crafts on display, watching artisans create intricate carvings and weave delicate fabrics. Maximilian, always interested in history, peppered our guide with questions, eager to learn more about the cultural significance of each village.


Discover the enchanting world of Hoi An through captivating performances and cultural experiences at Hoi An Memories Land, a premier theme park in Vietnam.
The 'Hoi An Memories' show was truly spectacular, a dazzling display of music, dance, and light. The stage was set against the backdrop of the Thu Bon River, with hundreds of performers bringing to life the stories of Hoi An's past. The costumes were vibrant, the choreography mesmerizing, and the music deeply moving. I was completely captivated by the performance, feeling a sense of awe and wonder at the beauty and artistry on display. Maximilian, even though he doesn't usually enjoy these kinds of shows, admitted that he was impressed by the scale and ambition of the production. I felt very proud of the culture, and I think Maximilian did as well.

For dinner, we chose An Bang Beach Village Restaurant, drawn in by the promise of fresh seafood and a relaxed beachfront atmosphere. The restaurant was located just a short walk from the beach, tucked away in a quiet alley. We were greeted by the friendly owner, who welcomed us like old friends. We chose a table overlooking the ocean, the gentle sea breeze carrying the scent of salt and the sound of crashing waves. The seafood was incredibly fresh, grilled to perfection and seasoned with local spices. Maximilian devoured a plate of grilled prawns, while I savored a flavorful fish curry. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration, enjoying delicious food in a beautiful setting.


Experience authentic Vietnamese seafood and Indian cuisine at An Bang Beach Village Restaurant with breathtaking ocean views.
To cap off the evening, we decided to check out Soul Kitchen, a bar right on An Bang Beach. The bar had a bohemian vibe, with colorful décor and a laid-back atmosphere. We ordered cocktails and relaxed on the beach, listening to the sound of the waves and enjoying the cool night air. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day, a chance to unwind and reflect on all that we had experienced. I felt very relaxed, and Maximilian was already making plans for tomorrow. What a great way to celebrate our marriage.


Experience the vibrant flavors of Vietnam at Soul Kitchen, a lively bar and restaurant in the heart of Hội An, perfect for food lovers and music enthusiasts alike.
As we head back to our homestay, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. Hoi An has a way of captivating the senses and touching the soul, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Tomorrow, we are planning on visiting My Son Sanctuary and Thanh Ha Pottery Village [following our itinerary]. I am very excited to see what that day will bring. Good night!