Cultural and Culinary Adventure in Hoi An

Discovering Hoi An's Charms: A Day of Villages, Kayaks, and Culinary Delights

Today was a day of diving deeper into the heart of Hoi An, venturing beyond the well-trodden tourist paths to discover the authentic soul of this Vietnamese gem. It was a day filled with cultural experiences, a touch of adventure, and, of course, plenty of delicious food. I always find that the best way to truly understand a place is to immerse yourself in its daily life, and that's exactly what Hans and I set out to do today.

Our morning began with a delightful breakfast at Phat Loc Eco Cooking and Restaurant. Nestled in a tranquil spot near the Bay Mau nipa palm forest, it was a serene escape from the bustling Ancient Town. The restaurant is located about 5km from the centre of Hoi An, and is ideally reached by a relaxing 30-minute boat cruise along the Hoi An River. I savored a steaming bowl of Pho, while Hans enjoyed a hearty portion of Cao Lau, both bursting with fresh, local flavors. It’s always a treat to start the day with authentic Vietnamese cuisine; it reminds me of home and my childhood in Thailand. I even thought about my cooking classes back in Hannover, and how I try to bring these authentic flavors to my students.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine through engaging cooking classes at Phat Loc Eco Cooking and Restaurant in Hoi An.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we embarked on the Hoi An Village Experience. This was an opportunity to witness the daily life of the locals, far from the tourist crowds. We explored traditional homes, met artisans crafting intricate handicrafts, and learned about the farming techniques that have sustained this community for generations. It was humbling to see the simple yet fulfilling lives of the villagers, their warmth and hospitality shining through despite the language barrier. I was particularly fascinated by the traditional methods of rice cultivation, a stark contrast to the modern farming practices I've seen in Germany. I even joked with Hans that perhaps we could try growing rice in our backyard in Hannover, much to his amusement.


Explore the authentic charm and rich cultural heritage of Hoi An Village Experience, a must-see tourist attraction in Vietnam.

The simple act of connecting with the local culture can transform a trip from a mere vacation into a profound and enriching experience.

After our village visit, we were ready for some adventure, so we headed to Hoi An Kayak Tours. I was a little nervous, as I'm not the most athletic person, but the staff were incredibly patient and reassuring. We chose a tour that took us through the serene Thu Bon River, offering stunning views of the riverbanks and the charming architecture that reflects Hoi An's rich heritage. The guide, Long, shared fascinating stories about the city's history and the local way of life. Paddling through the calm waters, surrounded by lush greenery, was incredibly peaceful. It was a unique way to see Hoi An, a perspective that you simply can't get from the crowded streets. I felt a sense of tranquility that I rarely experience in the hustle and bustle of daily life. Hans, of course, was in his element, expertly navigating the kayak while I enjoyed the scenery. I must admit, there were a few moments when I thought we might end up in the water, but thankfully, Hans's skills kept us afloat!


Experience the beauty of Hoi An's waterways with unforgettable kayak tours, exploring local culture and nature in Vietnam's enchanting landscape.

After our kayaking adventure, we were famished. We decided to have lunch at An Bang Beach Village Restaurant. Finding it was a bit of an adventure in itself, as it's tucked away in a hidden alley. But the search was well worth it. The restaurant had a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, with colorful decorations and friendly staff. We indulged in fresh seafood, grilled to perfection and bursting with flavor. I opted for the grilled prawns with tamarind sauce, while Hans devoured a plate of succulent scallops. The seafood was incredibly fresh, a testament to the restaurant's commitment to locally sourced ingredients. It was the perfect way to refuel after our active morning. The owner, Dong, was exceptionally welcoming, and it felt like we were dining at a friend's house. He even gave us complimentary mangoes after our meal, a gesture that truly warmed our hearts.


Experience authentic Vietnamese seafood and Indian cuisine at An Bang Beach Village Restaurant with breathtaking ocean views.

In the late afternoon, we strolled through the streets of Hoi An, soaking in the atmosphere and browsing the local shops. Of course, I couldn't resist a visit to Souvenir Hoi An Shop. I was on the hunt for unique mementos to take back home to Lena and our friends in Hannover. I found a beautiful hand-painted silk scarf for Lena, adorned with traditional Vietnamese motifs. And for our friends, I picked up some colorful lanterns, a symbol of Hoi An's enchanting beauty. I always believe that souvenirs should be more than just trinkets; they should be a reflection of the culture and experiences you've had. I was tempted by the ceramic clays, but I was worried about them breaking in my luggage.


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 Vy's Market Restaurant for dinner. This restaurant is designed to emulate a traditional Vietnamese market, with various food stalls offering a wide array of street foods and specialties. It was a feast for the senses, with the sights, sounds, and smells of a bustling market all around us. I decided to be adventurous and try some of the weird and wonderful food. I sampled the jellyfish salad and the pig ear salad, both surprisingly delicious. Hans, ever the cautious one, stuck to the more familiar dishes, opting for a flavorful Banh Mi. The atmosphere was lively and vibrant, a perfect way to end our day of exploration. It reminded me of the vibrant markets back home in Thailand, a place where food is not just sustenance but a celebration of community and culture.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine and engaging cooking classes at Vy's Market Restaurant in Hội An.

Tomorrow, we plan to experience the Hoi An Water Puppet Show and explore the Cam Thanh Rice Fields. I'm particularly excited about the water puppet show, as I've heard it's a unique and captivating art form. And of course, I'm always eager to learn more about the local agriculture and the importance of rice farming in Vietnamese culture. We might also stop by Mezcal Cocteleria [Hoi An Bar] for a drink.

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel: to experience new cultures, to connect with local communities, and to discover the hidden gems that make each destination unique. Hoi An has a way of captivating your heart, its charm and beauty seeping into your soul. It's a place where you can slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the simple things in life. And as I reflect on our adventures today, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with Hans and with all of you.

As I sit here writing, I'm already dreaming of our next adventure. But for now, I'll cherish the memories of today, the villages, the kayaks, and the culinary delights that made it so special. And I'll continue to seek out those authentic experiences that allow me to truly connect with the world around me.

Travel is more than seeing sights; it's about experiencing a culture, savoring its flavors, and connecting with its people.

Good night from Hoi An!

P.S. I recently read about a Tiktoker who waited 7 years to eat a Monstera fruit. Apparently, it tastes like a mix of pineapple, banana and apple. I will have to keep my eye out for that!