Cultural and Culinary Adventure in Hoi An

Finding Hoi An's Soul: Puppets, Rice, and Relaxation

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful blend of vibrant culture and serene landscapes that truly captured the essence of Hoi An. Hans and I started our day with a hearty breakfast, excited for the adventures that awaited us. Little did we know, we were about to experience a side of Vietnam that would touch our hearts and souls.

Our morning began with a culinary treat at Galina Restaurant Đà Nẵng. While technically in Da Nang, the flavors were worth the short trip. The restaurant was very luxurious, with enthusiastic and friendly staff. I opted for a traditional Vietnamese breakfast, a flavorful noodle soup that warmed me from the inside out. Hans, ever the adventurous one, tried a local pastry filled with savory meats. We both agreed it was a fantastic start to the day. I made a mental note to try and recreate the noodle soup back in Hannover; perhaps I could even incorporate it into one of my cooking classes. It's always inspiring to bring back new flavors and techniques from my travels. Galina Restaurant has a diverse menu of over 250 dishes from around the world.


Discover authentic Vietnamese seafood delights at Galina Restaurant in Đà Nẵng – where flavor meets stunning ocean views.

After breakfast, we made our way back towards Hoi An, eager to experience the famed Hoi An Water Puppet Show. I had heard so much about this unique art form, and I was excited to see it firsthand. The Hoi An Water Puppet Show was a captivating display of skill and artistry. The puppets danced and glided across the water, telling ancient Vietnamese folktales with humor and grace. The music was enchanting, and the puppeteers were masters of their craft. It was a truly unique experience, and I found myself completely absorbed in the stories unfolding before my eyes. The show transported me back to my childhood in Thailand, where I would often watch traditional performances with my family. It's amazing how art can transcend cultures and bring people together.


Discover the magic of Vietnamese tradition at the Hoi An Water Puppet Show, where art and culture come alive in an unforgettable experience.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Next on our itinerary was a visit to the Cam Thanh Rice Fields. Leaving the bustling town behind, we ventured into the tranquil countryside, where emerald green rice paddies stretched as far as the eye could see. The air was fresh and clean, and the only sounds were the gentle breeze and the occasional call of a bird. It was a welcome respite from the city's hustle and bustle. We rented bicycles and cycled along the narrow paths that wound through the fields, taking in the breathtaking scenery. Farmers were tending to their crops, their conical hats bobbing in the distance. I felt a sense of peace and serenity wash over me as I watched them work the land, their movements rhythmic and graceful. I couldn't resist stopping to take some photos, capturing the beauty of the landscape and the hard work of the local people. The rice fields reminded me of the countryside in Thailand, where my family grew rice for generations. It's a humbling experience to witness the dedication and perseverance of farmers, who work tirelessly to provide food for their communities. Cam Thanh is about 5km from Hoi An and is known for its rice paddies and the Bay Mau water palm forest.


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 decided to treat ourselves to a luxurious meal at the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort. Though a bit of a splurge, the experience was well worth it. The resort is nestled on the side of a mountain, offering breathtaking views of the sea. The service was impeccable, and the food was exquisite. We dined on fresh seafood, savoring each bite as we gazed out at the turquoise waters. The InterContinental is about a 40-minute drive from the airport. The InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort is beautiful, and I thoroughly enjoyed my three-night stay. The breakfast was excellent with both a western and Asian spread. The resort also has a funicular.


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

After such a filling lunch, we opted for a relaxing afternoon at Cham Spa & Massage in Da Nang. This spa is designed to look like a green oasis in the middle of Da Nang. After a day of exploring, my muscles were aching, and I was in desperate need of some pampering. We indulged in a traditional Vietnamese massage, which combined acupressure and herbal remedies. The therapists were skilled and attentive, and I felt my stress melt away with each stroke. The spa also offered a variety of other treatments, including hot and cold jacuzzi. By the end of our session, I felt completely rejuvenated and ready to take on the world. I've always believed in the power of self-care, and this spa experience was exactly what I needed to recharge my batteries. The Cham Spa has a restaurant and offers a buffet.


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

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Hoi An, eager to experience the town's vibrant nightlife. We stumbled upon Mezcal Cocteleria, a hidden gem tucked away on the second floor of an old building. The bar specialized in mezcal and tequila-based cocktails, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. We ordered a couple of margaritas, which were expertly crafted and bursting with flavor. The bartender was friendly and knowledgeable, and he shared stories about the history of mezcal and the different types of agave plants used to make it. Mezcal Cocteleria is known for its intimate and cozy atmosphere and its impressive drinks menu. The margaritas are often described as unbeatable. The prices are a bit higher than other local bars, but the quality is worth it. I appreciated the attention to detail and the passion that went into each drink. As someone who enjoys experimenting with flavors in my own cooking, I was inspired by the creativity and innovation of the bartenders. The bar has antique brick arches, candlelight, and passionate bartenders.


Delight in the art of mixology at Mezcal Cocteleria, Hoi An's premier cocktail bar offering innovative drinks and a vibrant lounge atmosphere.

Our dinner tonight was at Cham Spa & Massage. Meal after using the service including 1 of 5 scrambled eggs, egg fried rice, tuna salad, porridge, soup (menu may change according to season), drink and dessert.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post from our hotel room, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. Hoi An has a way of capturing your heart and soul, and I'm so glad that Hans and I were able to immerse ourselves in its culture and beauty. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Silk Village and take a lantern-making class with Lynn. I'm excited to learn more about the local crafts and traditions, and I'm sure it will be another day filled with unforgettable moments. I'm particularly looking forward to the lantern-making class; I think it would be a wonderful skill to bring back to Germany and share with my friends and family. Perhaps I could even host a lantern-making workshop in Hannover, bringing a little piece of Hoi An to my corner of the world. It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding, connecting us to different cultures and inspiring us to create and share our experiences with others.

October in Hoi An is characterized by warm daytime temperatures averaging around 83°F (28°C) and pleasant nighttime temperatures at 76°F (24°C). Despite occasional rain (59% chance) and the possibility of heavy showers, the weather remains generally suitable for travels.