Cultural and Culinary Adventure in Hoi An

Whispers of the Past, Tastes of Today

Today was a day of venturing beyond the familiar lantern-lit streets of Hoi An and diving deep into the heart of Vietnamese history and culture. It's amazing how much you can discover when you decide to explore beyond the well-trodden tourist paths. Hans and I set out early, eager to uncover the secrets that lay hidden in ancient ruins and vibrant craft villages.

Our first stop was the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site that promised a glimpse into the ancient Champa civilization. As we journeyed from our hotel towards the sanctuary, the landscape transformed from bustling town to serene countryside, offering a tranquil prelude to the historical wonders that awaited us. October in this region brings a mix of sunshine and occasional showers. Fortunately, today was mostly sunny, allowing us to explore the site comfortably, though I did make sure to pack an umbrella just in case!


Explore the mystical My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in Cham culture and ancient architecture, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

Journey to My Son Sanctuary

The drive to My Son was an experience in itself, with rice paddies stretching out on either side of the road, dotted with farmers tending to their crops. It reminded me of my childhood in Thailand, where life moved at a slower, more deliberate pace. Hans, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the ingenious irrigation systems used in the fields. When we arrived at My Son Sanctuary, the air was thick with history. The sanctuary is a collection of ancient Hindu temples, built by the Cham people between the 4th and 13th centuries. Although partially in ruins, the site exuded an aura of grandeur and mystery. The red brick structures stood in stark contrast to the lush green jungle that surrounded them, creating a scene that was both beautiful and haunting.

We wandered through the complex, marveling at the intricate carvings and the sheer scale of the temples. Our guide shared stories of the Cham kings and their devotion to the Hindu gods, painting a vivid picture of a long-lost civilization. It was fascinating to learn about the architectural techniques used by the Cham people, who were able to construct these impressive structures without the use of mortar. Despite the passage of time and the ravages of war, the temples still stood as a testament to their ingenuity and skill. I tried to imagine what life must have been like here centuries ago, with priests chanting and dancers performing in honor of the deities. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the impermanence of human achievements and the enduring power of nature. While exploring, I made sure to capture the beauty through my lens, hoping to share the serene yet powerful atmosphere of My Son with all of you. The weather was quite warm, typical for October, so we took our time, finding shade under the trees to rest and soak in the surroundings.

Travel is more than seeing sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.

A Culinary Start at Tra Que

Before immersing ourselves in history, we started our day with a delightful breakfast at Tra Que Vegetable Village Restaurant. This wasn't just a meal; it was an experience. The restaurant is nestled in the heart of the Tra Que Vegetable Village, a place where the air is fresh and the colors are vibrant. We sat at a rustic wooden table, surrounded by lush greenery, and enjoyed a traditional Vietnamese breakfast. The fresh herbs and vegetables, grown right there in the village, added a burst of flavor to every dish. It was a true farm-to-table experience, and I savored every bite. The peaceful setting and the delicious food set the perfect tone for the day ahead. It was a reminder of the simple pleasures in life and the importance of connecting with nature. I even got a chance to chat with one of the local farmers, learning about their sustainable farming practices and their deep connection to the land. It's inspiring to see how they've managed to preserve their traditional way of life in the face of modernization.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Tra Que Vegetable Village Restaurant in Hội An, where fresh ingredients meet traditional flavors.

Crafting Memories at Thanh Ha Pottery Village

After our historical excursion, we headed to Thanh Ha Pottery Village, a place where the art of pottery has been passed down through generations. As we approached the village, we could see the kilns rising up from the landscape, like ancient monuments. The village is located a few kilometers west of Hoi An, easily accessible by motorbike. The journey itself was enjoyable, offering glimpses of rural Vietnamese life. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the sight of potters hard at work, shaping clay into beautiful and functional objects. The rhythmic whir of the pottery wheels filled the air, creating a mesmerizing soundtrack to our visit. I was particularly impressed by the skill and precision of the potters, who could create intricate designs with seemingly effortless ease. I tried my hand at the wheel, but my attempt was far from graceful. The clay slipped and slid, and my pot quickly turned into a lopsided mess. Hans, of course, had to take a picture of my failed attempt, which I'm sure will become a family joke for years to come. Despite my lack of talent, I gained a newfound appreciation for the art of pottery and the dedication of the artisans who practice it. We explored the village, visiting the workshops and admiring the finished products. From delicate tea cups to sturdy cooking pots, the variety of pottery was astounding. We even visited the Thanh Ha Terracotta Park, a fascinating display of miniature terracotta models of world landmarks. It was a whimsical and creative tribute to human ingenuity and a testament to the enduring appeal of pottery. We bought a few small pieces as souvenirs, each one a reminder of our visit to this charming village. It was inspiring to witness the preservation of traditional crafts and the resilience of the local community.


Experience the traditional art of pottery making in Thanh Ha Pottery Village, Hoi An, Vietnam, where craftsmanship and culture come together.

A Taste of France in Vietnam

For lunch, we decided to indulge in some French cuisine at Le Petit Bistro Hoi An. It might seem odd to eat French food in Vietnam, but we had heard rave reviews about this place and were curious to try it. The bistro is located in the heart of Hoi An, offering a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The menu featured classic French dishes, prepared with local ingredients. Hans ordered the lamb shank, while I opted for the tuna steak. Both dishes were cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The service was attentive and friendly, making us feel right at home. It was a delightful culinary experience, a fusion of French and Vietnamese influences. The bistro provided a welcome respite from the heat and the crowds, a place where we could relax and savor the moment. We lingered over our meal, enjoying the ambiance and the company. It was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but also about experiencing new cultures and cuisines.


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

Vietnamese Flavors at Madam Kieu

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Madam Kieu Vietnamese Restaurant for dinner. This restaurant is known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and its prime location on lantern street. We sat on the balcony, overlooking the Thu Bon River, and watched as the lanterns began to light up the night sky. The view was breathtaking, a kaleidoscope of colors reflected in the water. The menu featured a wide variety of Vietnamese dishes, from pho to spring rolls. We ordered a selection of our favorites, including Hoi An beef pho and grilled beef with leaves. The food was delicious, a symphony of flavors and textures. The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was lively and festive. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day. As we savored our meal, we reflected on all that we had seen and done. From the ancient ruins of My Son to the vibrant pottery village of Thanh Ha, we had experienced the rich history and culture of Hoi An. And through the delicious food we had eaten, we had tasted the soul of Vietnam. As we walked back to our hotel, hand in hand, we felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this amazing place. Hoi An had captured our hearts, and we knew that we would never forget our time here.


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

Before heading back to the hotel, we decided to stop by The Shamrock Irish Pub for a nightcap. It was a fun way to end the evening, enjoying some familiar tunes and a friendly atmosphere. Even though we were thousands of miles from home, it felt comforting to find a little piece of Ireland in the heart of Vietnam.


Experience the best of Irish hospitality and local flavor at The Shamrock Irish Pub in Hoi An, Vietnam.

Tomorrow, we are planning to explore the Rừng dừa bảy mẫu, which I understand is a fascinating coconut forest, and also visit Hoi An Handicraft Tours to see more of the local artistry. I am excited to see what new adventures tomorrow will bring!

I’m so glad we decided to venture out and experience the true essence of Hoi An. It's days like these that make travel so rewarding, enriching our lives and expanding our horizons. Until tomorrow!