By Giacomo Abrusci
Positioned amidst tranquil rivers, verdant rice fields, and serene beaches, Hoi An emerges as a quintessential emblem of Vietnam’s rich historical and cultural heritage. This ancient trading port, characterized by its architectural confluence of Chinese, Japanese, and French influences, serves as a vibrant testament to the nation’s multifaceted cultural identity. Hoi An invites visitors into a realm where historical authenticity and contemporary exploration converge, offering an array of experiences designed to enrich, captivate, and inspire. The town’s distinct charm is not only encapsulated in its colourful historic buildings but also the surrounding countryside, presenting a unique blend of temporal journey and discovery.
- Cycling the Countryside: Beyond simply renting a bicycle, consider joining a guided bike tour for an immersive experience in Hoi An’s countryside. Such tours often include visits to local homes, interactive workshops on traditional crafts, and even cooking sessions with ingredients picked right from the farms. Cycling through Tra Que, Cam Thanh, and Cam Chau not only offers picturesque views but also a deep dive into the local culture and lifestyle. For those seeking a unique perspective, the vintage sidecar tours provide a novel way to explore, combining adventure with comfort as you breeze through lush landscapes and historical sites.
- Get on the Water: The Thu Bon River is central to Hoi An’s charm, and a sunset cruise offers a tranquil way to appreciate its beauty. To enhance the experience, consider booking a private boat tour that includes traditional music performances or a seafood dinner under the stars. For adventurers, sunrise stand-up paddleboarding or a kayak tour at dawn reveals a serene side of Hoi An, as the city awakens. These water-based activities not only showcase the town’s scenic waterways but also offer a refreshing escape from the bustling streets.
- Shop for Souvenirs: Hoi An’s shopping scene is a treasure trove of bespoke items and handicrafts. Delve deeper into its retail offerings by exploring local markets like the Hoi An Night Market, where artisans showcase their crafts. Participate in a workshop to create your own lantern, a symbol of Hoi An, or visit a traditional shoemaker for custom footwear. These shopping experiences not only provide unique souvenirs but also a hands-on connection with the local culture and craftsmanship.
- Taste Regional Dishes: For a comprehensive culinary exploration, venture beyond the acclaimed eateries to street food tours that highlight hidden gems and family-run stalls. Cooking classes in Hoi An also vary widely, offering opportunities to learn about organic farming or seafood harvesting from the nearby rivers and sea. Culinary excursions can include visits to local markets with a chef to select ingredients, offering a broader understanding of Vietnamese cuisine’s flavours and techniques.
- Stroll the Ancient Town: Enhancing your stroll through the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town, consider joining a guided walking tour at night to uncover the stories and legends that illuminate its past. Specialized tours might focus on photography, offering tips on capturing the enchanting lantern-lit streets, or on historical narratives that bring the architecture and its influences to life.
- Revisit Hoi An History: To deepen your appreciation of Hoi An’s rich history, seek out less-visited historical sites such as the Quan Cong Temple or the Museum of Trade Ceramics. These spots offer quieter moments of reflection and a deeper dive into the multicultural influences that shaped Hoi An. Participating in a cultural workshop, such as a traditional music or dance class, can also enrich your understanding of the area’s heritage.
- Go Café-hopping: Hoi An’s café culture is rich and varied, offering much more than just coffee. Each café has its own story, often set in beautifully restored heritage buildings with cosy interiors. Expand your café-hopping journey to include artisanal bakeries and tea houses that offer a blend of traditional and modern Vietnamese teas, alongside workshops where you can learn about Vietnam’s tea culture. Engage in a sensory exploration of local flavours, from farm-to-cup coffee experiences to tasting sessions featuring locally sourced ingredients.
- Take a Cooking Class: Beyond traditional cooking classes, consider those that offer a farm-to-table experience, where you can pick your ingredients from a local organic farm before heading to the kitchen. Some schools also include market tours to learn about and source local produce, providing a comprehensive understanding of Vietnamese food culture.
- Sample the Nightlife: For a broader nightlife experience, explore the cultural events and local festivals that often take place in Hoi An. From full moon lantern festivals to traditional music performances in ancient courtyards, these events offer a blend of entertainment and cultural immersion.
- Have a Beach Day: An Bang Beach is a gateway to relaxation and water sports. Beyond lounging and swimming, try engaging in beach yoga sessions or surf lessons to make the most of your seaside escape. The area’s restaurants and bars are perfect for sampling fresh seafood and local delicacies. For a more secluded experience, venture further to Cua Dai Beach or the hidden Ha My Beach, where the sands are less trodden, and the atmosphere is tranquilly untouched.
- Explore Nearby Ancient Ruins: Venture beyond Hoi An to the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Cham civilization. Guided tours to these ruins can provide valuable insights into their historical and architectural significance, offering a broader perspective on Vietnam’s rich cultural tapestry.
