Cultural and Culinary Adventure in Hoi An

A Warm Welcome to Hoi An

After a long journey from Hannover, Hans and I finally arrived in Hoi An, a city that has been on my travel bucket list for years. As a Thai native living in Germany, I've always been drawn to places where culture and history intertwine, and Hoi An, with its UNESCO-listed Ancient Town, seemed like the perfect place to start our 12-day Vietnamese adventure. I was especially excited to share this experience with Hans, hoping he would appreciate the beauty and charm of this unique destination as much as I anticipated.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at SECRET GARDEN HOIAN. Tucked away in a quiet alley, this restaurant was a true hidden gem. The tranquil garden setting was a welcome escape from the bustling streets, and the traditional Vietnamese dishes were a delicious introduction to the local cuisine. I savored every bite of my *pho*, while Hans enjoyed a hearty bowl of *cao lầu*, a local noodle specialty. It was the perfect way to start our exploration of Hoi An.


Experience the vibrant flavors of Vietnam at Secret Garden Hoi An, where culinary delights meet serene surroundings.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set out to explore the Phố cổ Hội An, the Ancient Town. The town was incredibly charming, with its narrow streets, yellow walls, and colorful lanterns. The architecture was a fascinating blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences, a testament to the town's history as a major trading port. As we wandered through the streets, I couldn't help but feel transported back in time.


Discover the timeless beauty of Hội An, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique blend of cultures, stunning architecture, and vibrant street life.

The beauty of Hoi An lies not just in its ancient architecture but in the vibrant spirit of its people and their enduring traditions.

One of the first places we visited was the iconic Hoi An Yellow Wall. This seemingly simple wall has become a symbol of the town, its vibrant yellow hue providing a stunning backdrop for photos. We took our time capturing the perfect shot, admiring the way the sunlight played on the wall's surface. It was a truly magical experience. The yellow color is believed to represent prosperity, happiness, and harmony.


Explore the vibrant yellow walls of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Vietnam.

Next, we made our way to the Rehahn Gallery. As an avid photographer myself, I was eager to see the work of this renowned French photographer who has made Hoi An his home. The gallery was filled with stunning portraits and landscapes, each capturing the essence of Vietnam's beauty and culture. I was particularly moved by his portraits of the country's ethnic minorities, their faces telling stories of resilience and tradition.


Explore the captivating photography of Rehahn Gallery in Hoi An, showcasing the beauty and diversity of Vietnam's culture and landscapes.

After immersing ourselves in art, it was time for lunch. We chose Bun Cha Ta Hoi An, a restaurant known for its authentic *bún chả*. This Hanoi specialty consists of grilled pork patties served in a flavorful broth, accompanied by rice noodles and fresh herbs. It was a culinary revelation! The combination of smoky pork, delicate noodles, and fragrant herbs was simply divine. Hans, who is usually a bit hesitant about trying new things, absolutely loved it.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Bun Cha Ta Hoi An, where every dish tells a story and every sip delights your senses.

In the afternoon, we decided to do some shopping. We stumbled upon Reaching Out Arts & Crafts, a shop that supports artisans with disabilities. I was immediately drawn to the beautiful handmade jewelry, ceramics, and other crafts. Knowing that our purchase would directly benefit these talented individuals made it even more special. I picked up a delicate silver necklace for Lena, our daughter, hoping she would appreciate the craftsmanship and the story behind it. The organization eliminates the “middleman” and is able to provide training and support, allowing other-abled artisans to develop their often hidden talents, lead independent lives, and support themselves and their families.


Explore the artistry of Vietnam at Reaching Out Arts & Crafts, a gift shop supporting local artisans with unique handcrafted treasures.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Little Faifo Restaurant for dinner. This charming restaurant, housed in a historic building, offered a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The menu featured a range of Vietnamese dishes, each prepared with fresh, local ingredients. I opted for the *cao lầu* again, wanting to savor its unique flavors one more time, while Hans chose the white rose dumplings, a local specialty. The service was impeccable, and the food was absolutely delicious. The restaurant provides a peaceful space, helping you slow down and put aside all your worries to fully enjoy the peace in a miniature Hoi An in the heart of the Old Quarter.


Experience authentic Vietnamese flavors blended with Indian spices at Little Faifo Restaurant in Hội An's Old Town.

As we walked back to our hotel, the Hoi An Historic Hotel, the streets were aglow with lanterns. The atmosphere was magical, and I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience this incredible city. It was the first day of the full moon lantern festival! I am excited to see what tomorrow brings, as we plan to visit Cua Dai Beach and Tra Que Village House. I'm particularly looking forward to experiencing the local flavors at Tra Que Water Wheel Restaurant for breakfast and Soul Kitchen for a nightcap.


Experience the charm of Hoi An at Hoi An Historic Hotel, a serene oasis near UNESCO sites with modern comforts and traditional hospitality.

Today was a perfect introduction to Hoi An. From the delicious food to the stunning architecture and the warm hospitality of the locals, everything exceeded my expectations. I am excited to continue our exploration of this charming town and share our experiences with you all.

As I reflect on our first day, I realize that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about immersing oneself in different cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life. Hoi An has already touched my heart, and I know that the next 11 days will be filled with even more unforgettable moments. Good night from Hoi An!

Tomorrow, we're planning a relaxing day at Cua Dai Beach followed by a visit to Tra Que Village. I'm especially excited about the cooking class at Tra Que Water Wheel Restaurant – I'm always eager to learn new culinary skills and bring them back to my cooking classes in Hannover!

And Hans? Well, he's already talking about finding an automotive workshop in Hoi An. It seems even in a place as steeped in history and culture as this, he finds a way to connect with his passion. That's just Hans for you!

I'm also curious about Soul Kitchen, the bar we plan to visit tomorrow night. I've heard it's a great place to unwind and enjoy some live music. Perhaps I'll even try my hand at a Vietnamese song – though I suspect my karaoke skills might not be up to par!

But for now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of adventure. Stay tuned for more tales from Hoi An!

The full moon festival is happening! It's so wonderful to be here at such a special time.