Exploring the Enchantment of Hoi An: A Cultural Retreat

Embracing the Countryside Charm of Hoi An

Today, Hans and I ventured beyond the enchanting streets of Hoi An Ancient Town to explore the serene countryside. It was a day filled with the simple pleasures of rural life, from the vibrant green rice paddies to the warm smiles of the local people. After spending most of my adult life in bustling cities, these moments of tranquility are exactly what I need to recharge and find inspiration.

The day began with a delightful breakfast at Orivy Hoi An Local Food Restaurant. This family-owned establishment offered a true taste of Vietnamese home-style cooking in a peaceful garden setting. I savored a steaming bowl of Cao Lau, a local noodle dish, while Hans opted for Banh Xeo, a crispy crepe filled with savory ingredients. The fresh herbs and authentic flavors were the perfect start to our day of exploration.


Discover the rich flavors of Vietnam at Orivy Hoi An Local Food Restaurant—an unforgettable culinary experience in the heart of Hoi An.
With our appetites satisfied, we set off for the Hoi An Village Experience. This immersive tour promised a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the region, and it certainly delivered. We started our adventure cycling through the countryside, with the wind gently caressing our faces. The views were simply breathtaking – endless rice paddies stretching out before us, dotted with farmers tending to their crops.


Experience the authentic charm of rural Vietnam at the Hoi An Village Experience, where tradition and culture come alive in a stunning natural setting.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of settings.

Our first stop was the Cam Thanh Rice Fields. December in Hoi An brings a comfortable climate, with daytime temperatures averaging between 22°C and 25°C. It is also the transition from the rainy season to drier conditions. The rice fields were lush and green, a testament to the rich soil and the diligent work of the local farmers. We took a leisurely stroll through the fields, marveling at the intricate irrigation systems and the sheer beauty of the landscape. It was a reminder of the simple, yet profound, connection between people and the land.


Discover the serene beauty of Cam Thanh Rice Fields, an essential stop for any traveler exploring the agricultural heart of Hội An, Vietnam.
As we continued our cycling tour, we arrived at Cam Thanh Coconut Village, also known as Cam Thanh Water Coconut Village. This unique eco-tourism site is nestled amidst a serene network of waterways and offers a fascinating glimpse into the local ecosystem. We hopped into a traditional bamboo basket boat and were gently paddled through the narrow canals, surrounded by lush coconut palms. The experience was both peaceful and exhilarating, as our skilled boatman shared stories about the village and its history.

The highlight of our time in Cam Thanh was learning about the traditional fishing techniques used by the locals. We even had the chance to try our hand at casting nets and catching fish – a task that proved to be much more challenging than it looked! Despite our lack of expertise, we managed to snag a few small fish, much to the amusement of our boatman. It was a fun and educational experience that gave us a newfound appreciation for the skills and knowledge of the local fishermen.

After our morning of rural exploration, we were ready for a hearty lunch. We headed to the Red Dragon Restaurant and Cooking Class, where we indulged in a delicious meal and learned about Vietnamese cuisine. The restaurant is known for its cooking classes, but we were content to simply enjoy the fruits of someone else's labor. I savored a flavorful Pho, while Hans enjoyed a plate of crispy spring rolls.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine and hands-on cooking classes at Red Dragon Restaurant in Hội An.
In the afternoon, we explored Hoi An Old Town, focusing on the shopping street. Hoi An is renowned for its tailoring services, and I was tempted to have a custom-made dress created. However, I resisted the urge and instead opted for a few souvenirs – a hand-painted silk scarf and a colorful lantern. The Old Quarter is the heart of shopping in Hoi An. As the sun began to set, the town transformed into a magical wonderland, with colorful lanterns illuminating the streets.


Experience the enchanting blend of history and culture at Hoi An Old Town Shopping Street, a vibrant hub of artisan shops and local cuisine.
For dinner, we chose Lim Dining Room, a modern Italian restaurant set in a heritage wooden house. While it might seem odd to eat Italian food in Vietnam, we were drawn to the restaurant's elegant ambiance and the promise of a delicious meal. We shared a pizza and a pasta dish, both of which were expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. It was a delightful end to a day filled with diverse culinary experiences.


Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at Lim Dining Room in Hội An's enchanting Old Town—where tradition meets taste.
As we walked back to our resort, hand in hand, I reflected on the day's adventures. Hoi An's countryside had captivated us with its serene beauty and authentic charm. It was a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, and a reminder of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the simple things.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into Hoi An's cultural heritage with visits to the Museum of Folk Culture and the Nguyen Tuong Family Chapel. And perhaps a cocktail at KoFi Hoi An - Cocktail bar to end the day. I am eager to uncover more of this enchanting town's secrets and share them with you all.

As I reflect on our day, I’m reminded of a quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe: I have traveled far and wide, and the more I see, the more I realize that the greatest treasures are often found in the simplest of places.