Additional Coverage:
- We spent our whole 11-day trip to Vietnam in just one city. It’s easily one of the best places I’ve ever visited. (businessinsider.com)
During an 11-day trip to Vietnam, our family made the deliberate choice to stay exclusively in Hoi An rather than traveling between multiple cities. This decision proved to be a rewarding way to explore the region, offering a rich mix of cultural experiences, scenic beauty, and family-friendly activities.
Upon arriving at Da Nang International Airport, we quickly settled into Lasenta Boutique Hotel, which provided stunning views of nearby rice fields and a refreshing pool that delighted our 9-year-old daughter. The convenience of affordable Grab rides and complimentary bicycles made exploring the area straightforward and enjoyable.
Hoi An’s charm lies in its relaxed pace and diverse offerings. Mornings were often spent at the tranquil An Bang Beach, while afternoons unfolded with strolls through the ancient town’s picturesque streets, where mustard-yellow walls are adorned with vibrant bougainvillea. Although day trips to nearby attractions like the Marble Mountains and Ba Na Hills were available, we were content to immerse ourselves fully in Hoi An’s atmosphere, venturing out only once to VinWonders theme park.
The city’s culinary scene was a highlight of our stay. While global comfort foods such as Mexican dishes and burgers were readily accessible, we particularly savored regional specialties like cao lầu noodles and cơm gà chicken. We also sampled the famed Mót iced tea and became devoted fans of Vietnamese coffee, often enjoyed at rooftop cafés overlooking the town.
Cultural immersion deepened through visits to traditional craft villages. At Thanh Ha pottery village, artisans guided us through shaping pottery and demonstrated their innovative use of air fryers as miniature kilns.
The silk village offered insight into silk production from silkworm to loom, and we crafted our own bamboo-framed lanterns. Wood carving in Kim Bong carpentry village and sampling cinnamon bark at Phuoc Kieu village further enriched our experience, with many handmade keepsakes brought home as cherished reminders.
Despite initial concerns about Vietnam’s bustling traffic, Hoi An proved remarkably easy to navigate with a child. The pedestrian-only zones in the ancient town during peak hours allowed for relaxed exploration, and many activities were child-friendly, encouraging active participation. The genuine warmth and hospitality of the local people enhanced our visit, with hotel staff and artisans warmly engaging with our family.
For us, Hoi An offered a perfect balance of culture, relaxation, and family-oriented experiences. As we ended our trip watching lanterns drift along the Thu Bon River, it was clear that this enchanting city would welcome us back again.