How to Experience the Best of Hoi An – Explore a Beautiful and Enrapturing Locality 

The city of Hoi An is an absorbing place to experience presenting many alluring attractions in Vietnam. This city is famed for its Ancient Town which boasts numerous features of interest. Hoi An is a delight for the culture lover, being a true cultural melting pot as shown by the architecture of its buildings; you will notice charming temples, Chinese shophouses, Vietnamese tube houses, French colonial-era buildings and more. Some of the rewarding things to do here are described below. 

Stroll through the Old Town 

You should undoubtedly take the opportunity to take a relaxed stroll through the locality’s charming Old Town (also known as the Ancient Town), one of the key UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Vietnam. As you make your way through this area, you will encounter features like historically significant buildings, Chinese shrines, French-colonial residences, quaint canals, a Japanese-style bridge, wooden structures and more. You would see that many of the longstanding buildings have thoughtfully been transformed into thriving businesses, many of them catering to tourists. The Old Town is particularly resplendent during the evenings, at which time it is illuminated by lanterns. 

Experience local rice cultivation and fishing 

The cultivation of rice is an important agricultural practice in Vietnam, and you will have the chance to gain a genuine understanding of this kind of farming during your visit to Hoi An. You may tour the captivating Cam Thanh Ecological Village and observe the ploughing, sowing and grinding activities. You could also make your way to a typical local fishing village, at which you may embark on a boat ride and learn the art of traditional fishing. You could learn the skill of crafting artwork from simple coconut leaves as well, which will add to the appeal of such an excursion. 

Photo by hartono subagio via pexels

Cycle across the countryside 

It is always an entrancing experience to cycle leisurely through the countryside surrounding Hoi An whilst taking in the scenic sights. You would have the opportunity to ride your bike along the narrow pathways which stretch through the lush rice paddies. You will find that the picturesque rice fields present an idyllic sight to the visitor. As you cycle along you will notice locals engaging in their day-to-day activities, often accompanied by water buffaloes. If you so desire, you could also visit the beaches as well as other nearby attractions on your pedal-powered adventure. 

Unwind on the beach 

Should you be tired from your exploring and sightseeing activities in Hoi An, you may recover your energies by relaxing on one of the beaches situated in proximity to the city. Two of the outstanding seashores where you can bask in the sun and take it easy are Cua Dai Beach and An Bang Beach. Both of these sandy expanses may readily be reached by bicycle. Meanwhile, by taking a taxi or renting a scooter it is also possible to make your way to the beaches at Da Nang further away. 

Take a cooking class 

Another not-to-be-missed experience that you could enjoy in this locality is taking a cooking class where you would be able to learn the art of preparing delectable Vietnamese dishes. The cuisine of Vietnam is renowned for its varied and fresh ingredients and you may gain an understanding of how the local dishes are crafted. An experienced chef would provide detailed, easy-to-follow instructions during your class giving you the chance to make authentic local specialities. One of the Vietnam luxury hotels to consider where you could take such a cooking class is the Hoi An property of Anantara Hotels & Resorts. 

Visit Marble Mountains and other attractions 

In the course of your visit, you may also take the opportunity to experience the absorbing Marble Mountains; you will find that each of these mountains has been named after a different element. You may additionally tour the engrossing Non Nuoc stone carving village at which many of the families craft marble statues, artworks and stone jewellery. Finally, you could visit the fascinating Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture where it is possible to gain an insight into the artistry of the Cham people.