Classic Hoi An

Hoi An is a must-see town for travellers in Vietnam. It is well known for its excellent tailors, its art galleries, and its narrow streets crammed with tiny wooden cafes serving steaming coffee. Centuries ago Chinese traders came to offer their goods here and the charm of the town is still completely undeniable. The only danger is that you may not want to leave!

There is plenty to do in Hoi An, and there is even a quiet palm-fringed beach nearby. During this module, you'll visit the historic temple complex of My Son and lazily browse the streets looking for a friendly tailor to sew your made-to-measure outfit. For the budding chefs among you, we can offer a Vietnamese cookery lesson with fresh local ingredients. Or, if you would prefer something a little more active, you can take a cycle trip of the area. You'll stay in a charming hotel in a central location with a lovely swimming pool. Breakfast is included.

Today you'll arrive in Hoi An, a real highlight of your Vietnam trip. Situated in the central region, the historical town is a perfect place to break up the journey from north to south. It is popular with backpackers, attracted by the wide range of quirky restaurants and cafes, the inexpensive tailors, and the lovely nearby beach.

The intriguing ancient monuments in Hoi An are not so well known, but well worth a visit. In the old town, you can buy a ticket that gives you access to the famous Japanese Bridge, the old trading houses and small museums. The centre of town is easy to explore on foot and has barely changed since the 17th century when it was an important port and trading post. After the port silted up, the traders abandoned the town, but their influences still clearly remain.

There is plenty to do in and around Hoi An. You can get measured up for a suit, or pedal about town on a rented pushbike. You could also cycle past the paddy fields to the sandy beach. Choose a spot under a thatched parasol with a book and some freshly sliced pineapple. At sunset, the local people flock to the beach to cool off and play some football after a long day at work.     

This is essentially a free day, so you can stay in the old town or head for the beach for some sun-kissed relaxation. However, we can also offer you the opportunity to spend the morning cycling through the countryside or whipping up some authentic Vietnamese dishes in the kitchen.

Cycle Tour: If you choose this option, you'll be collected from your hotel and head for the bustling Hoi An market. You'll then take a 20-minute ride by motorboat to the village of Tra Que where your trusty pushbike will await you. Your guide will fill you in on some local knowledge while you cycle through fields and narrow village streets. The villagers will invite you to try the local speciality – 'Tam Huu' – a sort of spring roll with mint leaves, shrimp and pork. After this, you'll head back towards Hoi An.

Cookery Lesson: If you go for this option you'll be collected from your hotel and head to the colourful Hoi An market to pick up the ingredients for your lesson. Armed with your purchases, you'll head for the cookery school where you’ll hear all about typical Vietnamese dishes. Then, you will have a go at preparing your own dishes before gobbling them straight down afterwards. 

Both of these activities will last for the duration of the morning, and the afternoon will be entirely your own to spend as you please.