So, I just got back from this charming little town called Hoi An, and let me tell you, the experience was anything but ordinary. When people ask about the best things to do in Hoi An, I could talk about it for hours, each story tumbling out like the bits and pieces of an intricate lantern design.
This spot? Total surprise.
I had a plan, you know — sort of. Typically, I like to map things out a bit, but being in Hoi An felt different. I stumbled into this small café, Cafe Mota, while wandering through the narrow, lantern-lit streets. Honestly, I wasn't expecting much, just a pit stop before I continued my aimless wandering. But that café! The coffee was so smooth and rich. They had this little dessert made of coconut and rice flour. I still don't know what it was called, but it melted in my mouth and made all my taste buds dance.
I sat there, sipping my coffee, feeling completely at peace. It was just me and the buzzing of the café. That moment made me realize that sometimes, the best experiences aren't planned. I mean, I've eaten in some fancy places before, but this unassuming little spot just felt… right.
The afternoon that changed my whole mood
One afternoon, I decided to explore the outskirts of the town. I don't know why I ended up there, but maybe my feet were just tired of dodging tourists. I rented a bike — although, let's just say, my biking skills have been better. There was this moment where I had to navigate through a narrow alley filled with narrow wooden houses and lush greenery, and honestly, I thought I'd just bike straight into someone's living room.
But then I found myself beside this rice paddy. Have you ever seen how the sunlight reflects off the green rice stalks? It was stunning. I parked the bike and just sat down on the edge, taking in the moment. A local family passed by, waving, and somehow I got up the courage to wave back. They stopped, and soon I was sharing some laughs with them, despite our language barrier.
They offered me some fresh lychee, and believe me, it felt like a secret handshake in that moment. So simple, yet it changed my whole mood. I realized I didn't have to rush through the historic sites — sometimes, getting lost is exactly what you need.
I almost missed this, no thanks to my bad sense of direction
Okay, here's where I hilariously messed up. I wanted to visit this temple called Phuc Kien Assembly Hall. Somehow, I made a wrong turn and ended up at this tiny artisan workshop instead. It was quiet — just a man carving wooden statues, and I went in thinking I'd take a quick look and then leave. But as soon as I stepped inside, I felt my pace slow down.
This man was so passionate about his craft, and honestly, watching him work was mesmerizing. He explained the significance of each carving, and I found myself completely entranced. By the time I realized I had been there for nearly two hours, I felt like I had stumbled upon a hidden gem. “This wasn't on my list of best things to do in Hoi An,” I thought, but it turned out to be one of the best decisions I made. It's funny how detours can end up being the highlight of a trip.
A meal I still think about
Let me take a moment to talk about food because, gosh, the flavors in Hoi An are unforgettable. I had this dish called Cao Lau — thick noodles, tender pork, and fresh herbs, all swimming in the most ridiculous broth. The strange thing is, I almost didn't order it. I was initially distracted by all the street vendors selling banh mi and spring rolls, but if I hadn't taken the waitress's recommendation, I would've missed out.
It was like a burst of flavors in my mouth, and I can still taste it when I think back. The textures, the aroma, everything just clicked. I sat in this little restaurant, watching the world outside move — scooters zipping by and families laughing. I felt like a character in a movie. You know that feeling when everything around you feels perfect for just a moment? That was it.
Lessons learned — mostly by accident
I guess what I'm saying is, sometimes the best things to do in Hoi An aren't on any itinerary. I learned to embrace the wandering. The moments of confusion became my favorite stories. Like getting lost on a cycling detour or sitting in an unexpected café, making instant friends over a plate of food.
And let's not forget about language—in Hoi An, I discovered that smiles could bridge any gap.
As I sip my coffee now, reflecting on all those little moments, I realize they're what made the trip real. The feeling of uncertainty turned into moments of wonder, unexpected friendships, and glorious food only added to that sweet messiness of travel.
Here's to letting life take you where it wants, even if it means ending up in an artisan workshop instead of a temple. You never know what you'll find.
