Cultural and Culinary Adventure in Hoi An

Last Day Reflections

As our Vietnamese adventure in Hoi An nears its end, I find myself filled with a mix of contentment and a touch of melancholy. Today was all about soaking in the last moments of this beautiful town, revisiting some favorite spots, and discovering a few new ones. It's amazing how quickly a place can feel like home, even if just for a little while.

Our final day began with a leisurely breakfast at Dng.coffee. Hans and I savored the strong Vietnamese coffee, a perfect start to the day. I opted for the Latte Blend, while Hans enjoyed the French Press Espresso. The cafe's cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made it a delightful experience. It's a great spot, and I can see why it's so popular with locals and tourists alike.


Discover the best of Vietnamese coffee culture at Dng.coffee in Da Nang—where every sip tells a story.

With our caffeine fix sorted, we decided to spend the morning at Bãi biển Cửa Đại, or Cua Dai Beach. The weather in October is generally warm and sunny, making it ideal for a beach visit. Although some sources mention that October can be part of the rainy season with potential typhoons, we were fortunate to have a beautiful, clear day. The beach was serene, not too crowded, and the gentle sea breeze was incredibly refreshing.


Experience the serene beauty and cultural richness of Bãi biển Cửa Đại, a must-visit beach destination in Hội An, Vietnam.

We strolled along the shore, enjoying the soft sand between our toes and the sound of the waves. I even managed to convince Hans to join me for a quick dip in the sea. The water was lovely, and it felt wonderful to simply relax and enjoy the moment. It reminded me of our beach trips back in Thailand, although the atmosphere here was distinctly Vietnamese. I made sure to apply sunscreen, remembering how easily I can get sunburnt, even on a cloudy day. We spent a couple of hours just lounging and enjoying the tranquility.

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in experiencing new moments and creating lasting memories.

After our relaxing beach interlude, we sought a bit of culture at the Quan Cong Temple. This temple, also known as Ong Pagoda, was founded in 1653 by Chinese immigrants and is dedicated to Quan Cong, a revered Chinese military general known for his loyalty and righteousness. The temple is located right in the heart of Hoi An's Ancient Town, making it easily accessible.


Explore the serene Quan Cong Temple in Hoi An, Vietnam - a beautiful blend of spirituality, rich history, and stunning architecture.

As we stepped inside, we were immediately struck by the temple's intricate architecture and vibrant colors. The detailed carvings and ornamental themes were truly impressive. The temple has undergone several restorations, but it has largely maintained its original architectural features. Inside the main sanctuary, the mighty statue of General Quan Van Truong stands tall, a symbol of integrity and protection.

We spent some time wandering through the temple, admiring the various artifacts and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. It was interesting to learn about the history of Quan Cong and his significance in Vietnamese culture. I made sure to dress respectfully, covering my shoulders and knees, as a sign of reverence. The temple was a welcome escape from the bustling streets outside, offering a moment of quiet contemplation. As a Buddhist myself, visiting temples always gives me a sense of peace and connection.

For lunch, we decided on Red Dragon Restaurant and Cooking Class. The restaurant had a cozy ambiance, and we were excited to try some authentic Vietnamese dishes. We started with the fresh spring rolls, which were light and flavorful. For our main courses, I opted for the Cao Lau, a local noodle dish, while Hans chose the Banh Mi. Both were delicious, and we savored every bite. The service was excellent, and the staff were happy to explain the different ingredients and cooking techniques.


Discover the essence of Vietnamese cuisine at Red Dragon Restaurant and Cooking Class in Hội An—where flavors come alive!

The Red Dragon also offers cooking classes, and while we didn't participate this time, it's definitely something I'd consider on a future visit. As a cooking class instructor myself, I'm always keen to learn new culinary skills and techniques. It's fascinating to see how different cultures approach cooking and how they use local ingredients to create unique flavors.

In the late afternoon, we indulged in some pampering at Cham Spa & Massage. After days of exploring Hoi An on foot, our bodies were definitely in need of some relaxation. The spa is known for its excellent customer service and skilled therapists. We opted for a couples massage, and it was heavenly. The therapists were professional and attentive, and the massage was incredibly soothing. The spa itself was beautiful, with a serene atmosphere and lovely decor.


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

After our massage, we enjoyed a light meal at the spa's restaurant. It was the perfect way to end our day of relaxation and rejuvenation. I felt refreshed and ready for our final evening in Hoi An. I'm always amazed at how a good massage can melt away stress and tension. It's something I try to incorporate into my routine whenever I travel.

For our last evening in Hoi An, we decided to visit Woop Woop Bar. This bar is known for being LGBT-friendly and having a welcoming atmosphere. We enjoyed a few drinks and chatted with some of the locals and other travelers. It was a fun and lively place, and it was a great way to celebrate our time in Hoi An. Hans and I enjoyed the laid-back vibe and the friendly staff. It's always nice to find a place where everyone feels welcome and accepted.


Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious cocktails at Woop Woop Bar, a premier nightlife destination in the heart of Hội An, Vietnam.

As we sipped our drinks, we reflected on our time in Hoi An. We had explored ancient streets, savored delicious food, and met wonderful people. It had been a truly enriching experience, and we were grateful for the opportunity to have shared it together. It's moments like these that make travel so special. The chance to step outside of our comfort zone, to immerse ourselves in a new culture, and to create lasting memories.

As we prepare to leave Hoi An tomorrow, I know that we will carry the memories of this charming town with us. From the vibrant lantern-lit streets to the delicious cuisine and the warm hospitality of the locals, Hoi An has captured our hearts. It's a place that I know we will want to return to someday. But for now, it's time to say goodbye and to look forward to new adventures.

Tomorrow marks the end of our trip, and we'll be heading back to Hannover. While I'm excited to see Lena and get back to my cooking classes, a part of me will miss the vibrant energy of Vietnam. I'll be sure to bring back some culinary inspiration for my students, perhaps a new twist on Pho or a flavorful spring roll recipe. Until next time, Vietnam!