The Ancient Town in Hoi An gets a lot of the spotlight and deservedly so. However, keep in mind there’s so much more to discover in the surrounding areas, too. Suffice it to say that these experiences are enriching as well. Here’s how you can uncover another side of this charming destination in Vietnam.
Be a Farmer at Tra Que Vegetable Village
Tucked just outside the main town, Tra Que is a tranquil farming haven known for its organic greens. Roll up your sleeves and immerse yourself in the local rhythm; of course, this means tilling the soil, sowing seeds, watering, and even harvesting vegetables. It’s one of the memorable things to do in Hoi An, which lets you experience the peaceful rural life of Vietnam… who knows, you might find it therapeutic as well!
Join a Vietnamese Cooking Class
Vietnamese cuisine is a delightful blend of ingredients which are fresh, fragrant, and full of flavour. Stay at a property like Anantara Hoi An Resort, which offers a cooking class that takes you from the local market to the kitchen, guided by a personal chef. And do you know the best thing about learning to make dishes such as Cha Ca Ha Noi (a street food fave featuring fried fish)? You get to savour it for lunch, of course!
Learn from Fishermen at Cua Dai Fishing Village
Get ready for a real hands-on adventure at Cua Dai, where local fisherfolk will show you traditional net-casting techniques and the secrets of navigating the coconut mangroves. You will get to tuck into a delicious fisherman’s meal too, freshly prepared by your boat captain. Part of the fun is to try your hand at paddling a round bamboo basket boat (it’s trickier than it looks) before taking part in a friendly race!
Image by Tiểu Bảo Trương from Pixabay
Take Part in a Lantern Making Workshop
Lanterns are a signature symbol of joy and light in Hoi An, and making one yourself is a beautiful way to connect with the local culture. Some resorts will even offer a workshop with step-by-step guidance on crafting your own colourful lantern; patience required, but it’s well worth it! For inspiration, just head to the Ancient Town, where you will see many such creations, especially during the monthly Full Moon Lantern Festival.
