Cultural Immersion and Relaxation in Hoi An with Family

Last Day Musings in Hoi An

Our final day in Hoi An was a bittersweet symphony of cultural immersion and heartfelt goodbyes. As the sun began its ascent, casting a golden hue over the ancient town, I couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness knowing our Vietnamese adventure was drawing to a close. Yet, I was also filled with gratitude for the incredible experiences we've shared as a family, the memories we've forged, and the rich tapestry of culture we've woven into our hearts.

We started our day with a delightful breakfast at Đào Tiên Restaurant, a charming spot known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and commitment to supporting local youth through culinary training. The restaurant is located in the center of the historic district of Hoi An. I savored a steaming bowl of Pho, while Hans enjoyed some pastries, and the kids had some pancakes. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our final day of exploration.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Đào Tiên Restaurant in Hội An - where tradition meets taste.

Our first stop was the Rừng Dừa Bảy Mẫu Hội An - Làng Quê, or the Bay Mau Coconut Forest. This unique destination offered a fascinating glimpse into rural Vietnamese life. Located about 3km from Hoi An Ancient Town, the Bay Mau Coconut Forest is not only a tourist attraction but also an immersive experience where visitors can connect with the tranquil environment, explore the unique ecosystem, and participate in numerous engaging activities.


Explore the serene beauty and traditional culture of Rừng Dừa Bảy Mẫu - a hidden gem in Hội An's lush mangrove forests.

As we approached, we were greeted by a sea of lush green coconut palms reflected in the calm waters. We hopped aboard a traditional coracle boat, a small, round bamboo vessel, and set off on a tranquil journey through the waterways. Our guide, a local with a warm smile and a wealth of knowledge, regaled us with stories of the forest's history, its role as a refuge during wartime, and its significance to the community. The weather in Hoi An in November is mild, with temperatures typically ranging from 23°C to 27°C.

As we glided through the narrow channels, we were surrounded by the mesmerizing beauty of the coconut forest. The air was filled with the sounds of birds chirping, the gentle lapping of water against the boats, and the occasional splash as a fish jumped from the water. The kids were captivated by the intricate network of waterways and the abundance of wildlife.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

Our guide then skillfully maneuvered our coracle into a wider opening, where we were treated to a captivating performance by local fishermen. They showcased their traditional fishing techniques, casting nets with precision and demonstrating the art of basket boat spinning. The kids were particularly thrilled by the basket boat spinning, cheering and clapping as the fishermen twirled and danced on the water. I even got a chance to try my hand at rowing the coracle, which turned out to be much more challenging than it looked!

After our exhilarating boat ride, we disembarked and took a leisurely stroll through the nearby Cam Thanh village. This charming village offered a glimpse into the daily lives of the local people. We passed by traditional houses, lush rice paddies, and friendly locals who greeted us with warm smiles and waves. We even stopped at a local workshop where we learned how to make traditional Vietnamese handicrafts from coconut leaves. The kids were delighted to create their own little souvenirs, which they proudly displayed for the rest of the day.

Next on our itinerary was a visit to one of Hoi An's Ancient Houses. These well-preserved homes offer a fascinating glimpse into the town's rich history and architectural heritage. We chose to visit the Old House of Tan Ky, known as one of the most popular of Hoi An's old houses. This two-story shophouse on Nguyen Thai Hoc Street backs onto the Thu Bon River and combines the architectural styles of the cultures that influenced Hoi An: China, Japan, and Vietnam.


Explore the Ancient House in Hoi An, a stunning tourist attraction revealing Vietnam's cultural heritage through exquisite architecture and history.

As we stepped inside, we were transported back in time. The house was filled with antique furniture, intricate carvings, and historical artifacts that told stories of generations past. The kids were fascinated by the traditional living spaces, the ancestral altar, and the beautiful courtyard. We learned about the family's history, their involvement in the silk trade, and their contributions to the community. It was a truly enriching experience that brought Hoi An's history to life.

Our final stop of the day was the Cao Dai Temple of Hoi An. This unique temple is dedicated to Caodaism, a syncretic religion that blends elements of Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Christianity, and Islam. As we approached the temple, we were struck by its vibrant colors and eclectic architecture. The temple's exterior is adorned with intricate carvings, dragon-wrapped pillars, and a unique human eye emblem, the symbol of Cao Daism.


Discover spiritual harmony and architectural beauty at the Cao Dai Temple in Hoi An, a vibrant symbol of Vietnam's diverse religious traditions.

Inside, we were greeted by a serene atmosphere and a kaleidoscope of colors. The temple's interior is a harmonious blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles. We observed the intricate details of the altar, the colorful stained-glass windows, and the serene statues of various deities. Although we couldn't enter the Great Divine Temple without permission, we admired the architecture of the building. It was a truly unique and enlightening experience that broadened our understanding of religious diversity.

For dinner, we decided to try Hoi An Golden Kitchen Restaurant & Coffee. We enjoyed some seafood dishes, spring rolls, and some iced Vietnamese coffee. As we savored our final meal in Hoi An, we reminisced about our incredible journey. We talked about our favorite moments, the delicious food we had eaten, and the friendly people we had met. We raised our glasses to Hoi An, a town that had captured our hearts and enriched our souls.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Hoi An Golden Kitchen Restaurant & Coffee in Hội An – a culinary gem with delightful dishes and warm hospitality.

After dinner, we decided to check out Woop Woop Bar, a gay-owned bar with a big garden. It was a relaxing way to end our time in Hoi An.


Experience the vibrant nightlife at Woop Woop Bar in Hội An, where creative cocktails and friendly vibes await every traveler.

As we packed our bags and prepared for our departure, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we had shared in Hoi An. This ancient town had not only captivated us with its beauty and charm but had also enriched our understanding of Vietnamese culture and history. As we bid farewell to Hoi An, we knew that we would carry its spirit with us, wherever our travels may lead.

Tomorrow, we will leave Hoi An to go back home to Berlin. It's been a wonderful trip with my family!

Hoi An, thank you for the memories. Until next time!