Hoi An, Vietnam

Once the major port of the Cham Kingdom, Hoi An is now Vietnam's most magical and atmospheric town, cloaked in a laid-back atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the spirit of typical Asia and let this charming city win your heart!

The main landmark of the city is the UNESCO-listed Hoi An Ancient Town. This well-preserved district reflects a mixture of indigenous and foreign cultures, including Japanese, Chinese, and even European influences. While strolling through the cozy streets of the city, you can see how various architectural elements have created such a unique fusion of styles. Other attractions that can't be left out of your Hoi An sightseeing itinerary are the impressive Chua Ong Pagoda, the majestic Chinese Assembly Halls, the 200-year-old Tan Ky ancestral house, and the lovely Japanese Bridge.

If you get a chance to visit the Hoi An open market, you'll notice one important thing: there are no price tags! Speaking of domestic trade traditions, Hoi An is dominated by the haggling system, meaning that you need to do your best to bargain for a good price. Just a small tip: be polite and smile when haggling. It is definitely the way to success!

No Hoi An travel experience would be complete without proper gastronomic adventures. To fully immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture, don't miss the chance to taste the local specialty, Hoi An rice noodles. Shockingly, the secret of its beautiful golden crust and incomparable flavor is lye water! This hallmark dish pairs perfectly with the refreshing locally-brewed lager called "bia hoi".

Do you know what the best souvenir to bring back home from Hoi An is? A lantern! A great opportunity to admire the creativity of the local skillful artists is to attend a Hoi An lantern festival. This remarkable event is held monthly to celebrate the full moon. Turning the water's surface into a dazzling starry sky, the lanterns of countless colors and shapes are lit by candles and set into the river as a sign of worship to the ancestors. Make sure to release your own lantern in the water, as this ritual is believed to bring luck and love!