Cultural and Culinary Adventure in Hoi An

Coastal Bliss and Garden Charms

Today was a delightful mix of seaside relaxation and exploration of local traditions. Hoi An continues to enchant me with its blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. It's days like these that remind me why Hans and I love to travel – to experience new things and immerse ourselves in the local way of life.

Our day began with a leisurely breakfast at Tra Que Water Wheel Restaurant & Cooking classes. It was a wonderful start, setting the tone for a day filled with authentic experiences. The restaurant itself was lovely, and I could already tell that Tra Que Village was going to be something special.


Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine and hands-on cooking experiences at Tra Que Water Wheel Restaurant in Hội An.

Sometimes, the most enriching travel experiences come from slowing down and appreciating the simple beauty of everyday life.

After breakfast, we decided to head to Cua Dai Beach. The weather in October is quite pleasant, with the monsoon season starting to ease off, so it was a perfect time to enjoy the coast. The beach is only a short distance from Hoi An, making it easily accessible. As we arrived, the sight of the soft white sand and clear turquoise waters was simply breathtaking. The beach wasn't too crowded, which allowed us to relax and soak in the serene atmosphere.


Discover the pristine sands and azure waters of Cua Dai Beach, a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in Hoi An, Vietnam.

Hans, ever the adventurous one, immediately suggested a swim. The water was so refreshing, and we spent a good hour just enjoying the waves and the feeling of the sun on our skin. I even tried my hand at a bit of beach volleyball, though I must admit, my skills are a bit rusty. It was all in good fun, and we shared plenty of laughs. Cua Dai Beach is known for its stunning sunset views, but with our itinerary for the day, we had to move on before then.

Next on our list was Tra Que Village House, and I was particularly excited about this part of the day. As a cooking class instructor, I am always eager to learn about local farming practices and ingredients. Tra Que Village is renowned for its organic herbs and vegetables, cultivated using traditional methods passed down through generations. The village is located a few kilometers outside of Hoi An, and the drive there was a treat in itself, with picturesque countryside views along the way.


Experience the tranquility of Tra Que Village House, a serene destination in Hoi An, Vietnam, where culture, agriculture, and cuisine meet.

Upon arriving at Tra Que Village, we were greeted by the sight of lush green fields and the fragrant aroma of herbs. The farmers here use a special type of algae from the nearby lagoon to fertilize the soil, avoiding any chemical fertilizers. It’s truly inspiring to see such a commitment to sustainable living. We took a leisurely stroll through the gardens, admiring the variety of vegetables and herbs. I was fascinated to learn about the unique properties of each plant and how they are used in Vietnamese cuisine. We even had the chance to try our hand at some of the farming tasks, like raking and watering the vegetable beds. I must say, it's harder work than it looks, but incredibly rewarding.

For lunch, we headed to Mai Fish Restaurant, known for its authentic Vietnamese dishes and charming ambiance. The restaurant is owned by a well-known Vietnamese-North American chef who focuses on homestyle Vietnamese food, and the menu is inspired by his mother’s recipes. We enjoyed a variety of local favorites, made with the freshest ingredients. The flavors were incredible, and it was a true culinary delight. I even got some inspiration for future cooking classes back in Hannover!


Experience the vibrant flavors of Vietnam at Mai Fish Restaurant in Hoi An - where traditional cuisine meets innovative cocktails.

In the late afternoon, we returned to Hoi An and had dinner at HOME Hoi An - HOME Vietnamese Restaurant. The restaurant has a luxurious and classic feel, and the menu features a wide range of local Vietnamese dishes. We savored every bite, reminiscing about the day's adventures. Hans particularly enjoyed the sea bass with passion fruit sauce, while I was partial to the pork belly.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at HOME Hoi An – where culinary tradition meets modern dining in Vietnam's enchanting Ancient Town.

To cap off the evening, we decided to visit Soul Kitchen, a popular bar known for its laid-back atmosphere and beachfront location. It was the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a drink while listening to the sound of the waves. The bar has a bohemian vibe, and the music was just right. We sat there for a couple of hours, chatting and enjoying the cool evening breeze. It was a lovely way to end a wonderful day.


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 I reflect on today's experiences, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore this beautiful part of the world. Hoi An has a way of capturing your heart with its charm and authenticity. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Hoi An Ancient Town and the night market. I am eager to see the lantern-lit streets and immerse myself further in the local culture. Until then, xin chào from Hoi An! I am excited for another day of discovery in this captivating town.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Hoi An Ancient Town and the night market. I can't wait to wander through the lantern-lit streets and soak up the atmosphere. It's supposed to be a magical experience, and I'm eager to see it for myself. I'm also hoping to do a bit of shopping and pick up some souvenirs to take back home. Hans is particularly interested in finding some local artwork, while I'm on the hunt for some unique fabrics and spices. The night market is also supposed to be a great place to try some local street food, so I'm definitely looking forward to that. All in all, it promises to be another exciting day in Hoi An.

Perhaps we will even catch the monthly Lantern Festival, where the town glows with countless colorful lanterns, though I know that the festival is dependent on the lunar calendar. I've heard it’s a truly magical sight, and I’m keeping my fingers crossed that our visit coincides with the festival! Whether we catch the festival or not, I know that Hoi An has plenty more to offer, and I’m excited to see what tomorrow brings.

I'm incredibly grateful for these experiences and excited to see what tomorrow brings as we delve deeper into the cultural heart of Hoi An.

I am also thinking of taking a Vietnamese cooking class when I come back to Germany. I think it would be a great way to share the flavors of Vietnam with my students and friends. Maybe I can even incorporate some of the techniques I learned in Tra Que Village into my classes. The possibilities are endless!

As I prepare for another day of exploration, I am reminded of how fortunate I am to be able to travel and experience new cultures. It’s not just about seeing new places, but also about connecting with people and learning about their way of life. It broadens your perspective and enriches your soul. And of course, it’s always better when you have someone to share it with, like my dear Hans. Good night from Hoi An!

And now, as the day winds down, I find myself reflecting on the simple joys of travel: the warmth of the sun on my skin, the taste of exotic flavors, and the kindness of strangers. These are the moments that make life so rich and meaningful, and I am grateful for every single one.