Vietnam
Vietnam
From the lantern-lit alleys of Hội An and the vibrant craft villages of the Red River Delta, to the misty rice terraces of the northern highlands, Vietnam offers immersive experiences rooted in community and culture.
From the lantern-lit alleys of Hội An and the vibrant craft villages of the Red River Delta, to the misty rice terraces of the northern highlands, Vietnam offers immersive experiences rooted in community and culture.
Overview
Overview
Hoi An — A Cultural Gem in Central Vietnam
Hoi An is a gentle, atmospheric place to include in a customized journey through Vietnam. I usually recommend staying just outside the busy Old Town, in small boutique hotels set along the river, overlooking rice fields and coconut palms, or near quiet stretches of beach. These peaceful settings offer a more authentic sense of place, while still making it easy to cycle or take a short taxi into town whenever you wish.
During your stay, I can arrange a mix of off-the-tourist-track experiences and a few curated day trips, depending on what you enjoy. For travelers who love food and culture, I’ve long recommended The Original Taste of Hoi An food tour. I’ve been sending clients on this since 2012—long before the newer copycat tours appeared—because it offers both delicious tastings and meaningful cultural insight. (Definitely skip breakfast!)
Some of Hoi An’s surrounding villages are promoted as “craft villages,” but many of the well-known ones have become very touristy. For a more Journeys Off the Tourist Track experience, I arrange visits to smaller, genuinely traditional communities where daily life continues at its natural rhythm and local products are made with long-standing techniques.
Tra Que Village, the well-known organic farming village, still grows some of Hoi An’s highest-quality vegetables. Around 150 farmers and 400 owners live and work here, using no harmful chemicals—only a special algae from a nearby lagoon as fertilizer. Although it can be crowded, it remains culturally interesting and cooking classes are offered.
For a quieter alternative, you can visit Hoi An Impressive Farm, where you can learn about rice and vegetable cultivation in a relaxed, authentic setting. This type of visit offers a true glimpse into the countryside and local way of life—a beautiful complement to time spent exploring Hoi An’s old town, beaches, and nearby cultural sites.
Hoi An’s popularity means that its narrow streets can become crowded, especially later in the day and in the evenings. Visiting earlier offers a more peaceful experience—and is a great time to enjoy morning coffee at a café along the river.
In the evenings, you’ll see both local families and travelers lighting paper lanterns and floating them on the river. You can write a wish on your lantern before setting it afloat. Even though Hoi An is not Off the Tourist Track, it remains a charming and excellent home base for authentic experiences in the local culture and way of life..
When To Visit
February – April
Soft light, mild temperatures, and vibrant landscapes make these months ideal for slow exploration. Village life is active, markets are lively, and conditions are perfect for walking tours, river journeys, and hands-on cultural experiences across the country.
October – December
Clear skies and comfortable weather return throughout Vietnam. Rice terraces glow in harvest colors, old towns feel calm and atmospheric, and coastal regions enjoy warm, steady days. It’s a beautiful season for boutique stays and deep cultural connection.
Hoi An — A Cultural Gem in Central Vietnam
Hoi An is a gentle, atmospheric place to include in a customized journey through Vietnam. I usually recommend staying just outside the busy Old Town, in small boutique hotels set along the river, overlooking rice fields and coconut palms, or near quiet stretches of beach. These peaceful settings offer a more authentic sense of place, while still making it easy to cycle or take a short taxi into town whenever you wish.
During your stay, I can arrange a mix of off-the-tourist-track experiences and a few curated day trips, depending on what you enjoy. For travelers who love food and culture, I’ve long recommended The Original Taste of Hoi An food tour. I’ve been sending clients on this since 2012—long before the newer copycat tours appeared—because it offers both delicious tastings and meaningful cultural insight. (Definitely skip breakfast!)
Some of Hoi An’s surrounding villages are promoted as “craft villages,” but many of the well-known ones have become very touristy. For a more Journeys Off the Tourist Track experience, I arrange visits to smaller, genuinely traditional communities where daily life continues at its natural rhythm and local products are made with long-standing techniques.
Tra Que Village, the well-known organic farming village, still grows some of Hoi An’s highest-quality vegetables. Around 150 farmers and 400 owners live and work here, using no harmful chemicals—only a special algae from a nearby lagoon as fertilizer. Although it can be crowded, it remains culturally interesting and cooking classes are offered.
For a quieter alternative, you can visit Hoi An Impressive Farm, where you can learn about rice and vegetable cultivation in a relaxed, authentic setting. This type of visit offers a true glimpse into the countryside and local way of life—a beautiful complement to time spent exploring Hoi An’s old town, beaches, and nearby cultural sites.
Hoi An’s popularity means that its narrow streets can become crowded, especially later in the day and in the evenings. Visiting earlier offers a more peaceful experience—and is a great time to enjoy morning coffee at a café along the river.
In the evenings, you’ll see both local families and travelers lighting paper lanterns and floating them on the river. You can write a wish on your lantern before setting it afloat. Even though Hoi An is not Off the Tourist Track, it remains a charming and excellent home base for authentic experiences in the local culture and way of life..
When To Visit
February – April
Soft light, mild temperatures, and vibrant landscapes make these months ideal for slow exploration. Village life is active, markets are lively, and conditions are perfect for walking tours, river journeys, and hands-on cultural experiences across the country.
October – December
Clear skies and comfortable weather return throughout Vietnam. Rice terraces glow in harvest colors, old towns feel calm and atmospheric, and coastal regions enjoy warm, steady days. It’s a beautiful season for boutique stays and deep cultural connection.
