After an enriching experience in Hanoi, our journey led us to the charming town of Hoi An located in Vietnam’s central coast. With only a few days to spare, we embarked on a seamless adventure, taking a short flight from Hanoi to Da Nang and then driving to Hoi An. As we traversed the scenic landscapes, we couldn’t help but notice how the Vietnamese countryside’s charm almost resembled the picturesque landscapes of India, my home. Finally, we arrived in Hoi An, the town characterized by the iconic two-floored dirty yellow houses adorned with tiled roofs.

In the alluring town of Hoi An, our days started with tranquil mornings and ended with vibrant nights. As the sun rose, the peaceful atmosphere embraced us while allowing us to explore the ancient town’s cultural wonders. When the sun set, Hoi An transformed into a vibrant spectacle, with lively night markets and illuminated lantern-lit streets captivating our senses. Hence, we discovered a world of experiences in our short but wholesome stay at Hoi An.

Bamboo Boat Thrills and Magical Stunts : Upon arrival, we couldn’t resist exploring the popularized basket boat rides. Our cab driver from Da Nang airport took us to Ba Loc Coconut, one of the spots in Hoi An offering this exhilarating boat ride. We paid a hefty sum for two boats, and quickly got into the circular bamboo boats, sailing through the coconut grove towards the center as the sun dipped below the horizon. Just when we were halfway through our ride, the boat pilot treated us to a thrilling stunt, spinning the boat around to our delight. Though enjoyable, I found it a bit overhyped. Nevertheless, it was a memorable start to our Hoi An journey.

Ancient Town Wonders and An Bang Beach Bliss : The next morning, we immersed ourselves in the ancient town’s beauty. The town’s historical significance and stunning architecture left us in awe. We explored the iconic Japanese covered bridge also known as the Chùa Cầu (Bridge Pagoda) or the Lai Vien Kieu. This bridge was constructed in the 16th century to connect the Japanese settlement on the west side of the town to the Chinese quarter on the east side. Today it stands as a functional crossing and also serves as a symbol of cultural exchange and historical significance between the Japanese and Vietnamese communities. There is also a small temple inside it dedicated to the deity Thien Hau, the goddess of the sea. As we stood on the iconic bridge, we also came to know that this bridge is printed on Vietnam’s 20,000 VND banknote, making it all the more special.

As we strolled through the streets, we saw vendors selling delicious corn cobs and fried ice creams. We were also captivated by the sight of women wearing traditional bamboo conical hats, gracefully carrying bamboo baskets filled with fruits from a pole. This reminded us of Vietnam’s rich culture and traditions.

Later in the evening, we sought serenity at An Bang beach, unwinding by the gentle waves.

Nights at Hoi An : As the sun set, Hoi An transformed into a magical wonderland. One side of the streets sparkled with the colorful lights of floating lanterns, and boats glided gracefully on the lake’s surface. Hoi An’s night was truly enchanting, offering numerous photo opportunities.

Pubs, bars, and cafes offered unique experiences, with each having its own charm. We couldn’t resist trying out the spas, where kind Vietnamese girls offered blissful massages. Touched by their dedication, we couldn’t help but leave generous tips.

This is also when the night market came to life, attracting both locals and tourists to its vibrant streets. While people seriously shop in Thailand, I feel that in Vietnam, people don’t come with the sole mindset of shopping. Like others, we stroll through the shops, occasionally picking up a few souvenirs for friends and family.

A Taste of Home : Being a devout vegetarian family, we were in search of Indian and vegetarian restaurants in Hoi An. Thankfully, we discovered some delightful options like “Baba’s Kitchen,” “Ganesh,” and “Namaste Omar’s.” Finally, we found solace at a family restaurant owned by a warm-hearted Sri Lankan woman. They lived on the first floor of the establishment, while the ground floor housed the restaurant. As my mother fasted on Mondays, eating only one meal, this restaurant was a godsend. The cook prepared scrumptious vegetarian dishes while the owner’s young daughter played with us, creating a homely atmosphere away from home.

Tailor Shops and Custom-made Elegance : Hoi An is renowned for its tailor shops, and we couldn’t miss the chance to visit one such shop. From suits to gowns, they worked their magic within 24 hours. The satisfaction of wearing personalized attire is truly rewarding for some. However, we gave it a miss. We try to travel light and clothes are never our focus on trips.

After our brief stay, our driver, dropped us back to Da Nang airport for the next part of our journey.

Hoi An offered us an unforgettable experience, from the thrilling bamboo boat rides to exploring the ancient town’s beauty and vibrant nightlife. The city’s enchanting atmosphere, lantern-lit streets, and tailor shops left an indelible mark on our hearts. Our brief sojourn in Hoi An was a magical escape we’ll cherish forever. What’s your favorite memory from Hoi An or any other enchanting destination you’ve visited? Share your travel tales in the comments below.