Cultural Exploration and Relaxation in Hoi An with Friends

Seascapes and City Lights

Today was a beautiful blend of Hoi An’s vibrant city life and tranquil coastal charm. It's amazing how much this little town has to offer, and I’m so grateful to be experiencing it all with my friends. We truly made the most of our penultimate day here, soaking in the culture and enjoying the simple pleasures of good food, good company, and stunning scenery.

Our day began, as usual, with a delightful breakfast at the Hoi An Historic Hotel. There’s something so comforting about starting the day with a good meal, especially when you know you have a day full of exploration ahead. The spread was fantastic, offering a mix of familiar Western options and intriguing Vietnamese dishes. I, of course, opted for the latter, eager to fuel up with local flavors.


Discover the charm of Hoi An at the Historic Hotel, where traditional elegance meets modern comfort amid Vietnam's cultural heart.

With our bellies full, we decided to spend the morning at An Bang Beach. It was the perfect time of year to visit, with the dry season offering calm waters and hot days. The beach was bustling with activity, but still retained a sense of serenity. We found a nice spot to settle down, and some of us took a dip in the sea while others simply relaxed on the sand, soaking up the sun. I chose to do a bit of both, enjoying the refreshing water and the warmth of the sun on my skin. It was so peaceful, and I felt a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of Dresden.


Discover the beauty of An Bang Beach, a serene coastal escape in Hoi An, Vietnam, renowned for its soft sands, clear waters, and vibrant local culture.

The memories we make are not just souvenirs; they are the threads that weave the rich tapestry of our lives.

Around midday, our stomachs started to rumble again, signaling it was time for lunch. We had heard great things about Bale Well restaurant, so we decided to give it a try. Finding it was a bit of an adventure in itself, tucked away in a small alley, but the delicious aroma wafting from the restaurant assured us we were on the right track. The restaurant was bustling with both locals and tourists, all eager to sample their famous barbecued pork. There was no real menu, just a set offering of fixings to make the tastiest rolls I’ve ever experienced. The pork was smoky, the herbs crunchy, and the pancake crispy – a perfect mix of flavors and textures. We all enjoyed the interactive experience of making our own spring rolls, even if our attempts weren't always successful. Hans would have loved this, he always enjoys a good DIY project, even when it comes to food!


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Bale Well Restaurant in Hội An - a must-visit culinary destination for tourists.

After lunch, we spent a few hours simply wandering around Hoi An, soaking in the atmosphere. The town was preparing for the evening’s night market, with vendors setting up their stalls and lanterns being hung up. The anticipation was palpable, and we were all excited to experience the market later in the evening. I found myself drawn to a small shop selling silk scarves, and I couldn't resist buying a beautiful blue one as a souvenir. It will be a lovely reminder of my time in Hoi An, and I can already imagine wearing it back in Dresden.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Cham Spa & Massage for a well-deserved pampering session. After days of exploring, our bodies were definitely in need of some relaxation. The spa was an oasis of tranquility, with soothing music and a calming atmosphere. I opted for a traditional Vietnamese massage, and it was heavenly. The therapist worked her magic, easing all the knots and tension in my muscles. I felt completely rejuvenated afterwards, ready to take on the night.


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

For dinner, we decided to stay at the Cham Spa & Massage, as they also offered dining services. It was incredibly convenient, and we were all still feeling too relaxed to venture out. The food was delicious, offering a mix of Vietnamese and international dishes. I opted for a traditional Vietnamese dish, wanting to savor the local flavors as much as possible. It was the perfect end to a day of relaxation and pampering.

After dinner, it was finally time to experience the Hoi An Night Market. The market was a feast for the senses, with colorful lanterns illuminating the streets, the aroma of street food filling the air, and the sounds of vendors hawking their wares creating a lively atmosphere. We strolled through the market, admiring the various handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs on offer. I bought a few small gifts for Lara and Hans, wanting to bring back a little piece of Hoi An for them. My friends purchased some tailored clothes, a popular souvenir in Hoi An. I couldn’t help but think how much Lara would have loved this vibrant atmosphere. I made a mental note to bring her here someday.


Discover the vibrant charm of Hội An Night Market, where culture, cuisine, and crafts come together in a mesmerizing evening experience.

To cap off the night, we headed to Soul Kitchen, a beachside bar known for its laid-back atmosphere and good music. It was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on the day. We ordered some cocktails, sat back, and enjoyed the sea breeze and the sound of the waves. The bar had a bohemian vibe, with comfortable seating and eclectic decor. It felt like a world away from the bustling night market, offering a sense of tranquility and peace.


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 sit here writing this, I can’t help but feel a sense of contentment. Today was a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to experience Hoi An with my friends, and I know that these memories will stay with me for a lifetime.

Tomorrow marks the last day of our adventure here in Hoi An. We plan to visit Phố cổ Hội An and The Marble Mountains, squeezing in as much sightseeing as possible before we bid farewell to this charming town. We'll have breakfast at Cafe Sữa 2, lunch at Sabirama Cooking Tour & Restaurant, and a farewell dinner at Galina Restaurant Đà Nẵng. We might also do some last-minute souvenir shopping at Lotus Leaf Fine Arts & Jewellery. I’m already feeling a bit sad about leaving, but I’m also excited to see what tomorrow brings. And, of course, I’m looking forward to sharing my experiences with Hans and Lara when I return to Dresden. This trip has been an incredible journey, and I can’t wait to see what adventures await me in the future.

It's funny, before I came on this trip, I was worried about forgetting to pack my portable phone charger and reusable water bottle. Now, as I reflect on the past eight days, I realize that the things that truly matter are the experiences we have and the connections we make along the way. Material possessions are fleeting, but memories last a lifetime. As I prepare for our final day in Hoi An, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the journey and excitement for what lies ahead.