Hội An
Known for its romantic glowing lanterns, calm canals, and timeless charm, Hội An feels like stepping into a storybook. We hired a private driver from Huế for a scenic three-hour drive south, arriving in an ancient city that seamlessly blends Chinese, Japanese, and French colonial architecture. The Old Town is blissfully pedestrian-friendly, filled with bicycles, forgiving local shopkeepers, and vibrant night markets along the Thu Bồn River.
Stay
Laluna Hoi An Riverside Hotel & Spa: Located in the Old Town area, Laluna provided a peaceful sanctuary just far enough from the main crowds while keeping everything within easy walking distance.
Activities
Tailor-Made Áo Dài Experience: Beyond relaxing by the river, one of my biggest missions in Hội An was ordering custom-tailored traditional Vietnamese attire. Finding an áo dài off the rack that fits my body type back home is nearly impossible, but at Thương Tailor, they crafted two stunning pieces with unbelievable speed: a simple, elegant white áo dài reminiscent of my mom's traditional school uniform, and a laced red áo dài designed to match my partner’s red-and-gold dragon áo gấm.
Eats
Bánh Mì: You can't visit Hội An without experiencing its legendary baguettes. At Bánh mì Madam Khánh (known as the "Bánh Mì Queen") and Bánh mì Sum, we tasted perfection—crackly, paper-thin crusts filled with airy interiors, savoury BBQ pork, house paté, sausage, and fresh herbs.
Bê Thui (Roast Veal): At Bê Thui Cầu Mống Mười, whole veal is roasted over open fires until tender and pink inside. Sliced paper-thin like a kebab, you wrap the smoky meat with fresh herbs in rice paper and dip it into rich fish sauce.
Cơm Gà (Hội An Chicken Rice): Simple yet fragrant, Long cơm gà cooks rice directly in rich chicken broth for maximum flavour. Served with tender, juicy chicken and organ meats (đặc biệt), it's far superior to any mild chicken dish back home.
Nem Tré & Regional Delicacies: At Mon Huế Hoi An, we sampled Nem Tré—spicy banana-leaf packets filled with minced pork, wood ear mushrooms, and fragrant spices.
Bánh Vạc & Cao Lầu: Dining at Firefly Hoi An Restaurant & Bar, we enjoyed Bánh Vạc (delicate "white rose" steamed rice dumplings filled with minced pork and shrimp) alongside classic Cao Lầu, a signature regional dish featuring thick lye-dipped rice noodles, char-siu pork, bean sprouts, and crisp greens.
Thai Night Out: Craving a quick break from Vietnamese cuisine, we stopped by BKK Thai Station (now permanently closed). Despite being in a popular tourist area, the dishes delivered authentic, vibrant flavours.
Street Food & Bánh Tráng Nướng: Exploring the lively Hội An Night Market along the glowing Thu Bồn River is an absolute treat. I couldn't resist trying bánh tráng nướng—the famous "Vietnamese pizza" made of grilled rice paper topped with egg, minced meat, and savoury sauces cooked right on the street!
Hội An gave us an unforgettable taste of custom fashion, glowing lantern nights, and incredible regional flavours. Follow along in the next post as we travel further down the coast to the modern coastal city of Đà Nẵng!
