Five Local things to do in Hoi An – Tour like a Native of Vietnam

An original Hoi An delicacy, the Cao Lau is a tantalisingly delicious blend of chewy rice noodles, Cantonese-style barbequed pork, crispy wonton chips, leafy greens, bean sprouts, and a variety of other herbs. What makes this dish unique is that the locals' insistence of boiling the noodles in the water taken from Bá Lễ well, which is known to provide the meal with its authentic flavours. One can expect to relish in the mouthwatering tastes of Cao Lau when dining at a myriad of street food stalls or one of the hotels in Hoi An the likes of Anantara Hoi An Resort.

As the sun casts its last few rays of the day, why not head out to the pulsating night market of Hoi An? Located in the Nguyen Hoang Street at the centre of the city, it is the ideal place to experience the night coming to life, with its brightly-lit street lantern galore. The colourful street lanterns add a unique ambience that is characteristic of Hoi An night market, which also makes this location a popular spot for photography that would prettify your Instagram feed. Apart from the spectacular sights of lanterns, you can also go through an array of traditional apparel, silk and mesmerising souvenirs and purchase something for you and your loved ones. Once the stomach starts rumbling, you can also treat yourself to a delightful Vietnamese meal such as Banh mi or Banh xeo on an upstairs terrace offering enchanting views of the surroundings.

One of the most precious sceneries of Hoi An is the monthly full moon celebrations that take place on and around the Thu Bon River, which also contribute largely to the charming ambience of the city. For an authentic Hoi An experience, consider a nighttime tour on the river during these celebrations, where you can witness people from near and far placing colourful floating lanterns on river surface in the hope that they bring prosperity and luck in their daily lives. The Thu Bon River literally transforms herself into a vividly coloured rug during the Full Moon Festival. You'd see a number of boats available for rides scattered on the river bank, so getting a cruise on the river won't be much difficult. End the day perfectly by relaxing at one of these boats, gazing at hundred of sparkling lanterns cast a magical glow on the Thu Bon River.

Just as the sun peeks above the horizon, know that it's the ideal time to head out on a bike ride in Hoi An. Mounting a bike is the ideal way of exploring the nooks and corners of the city, but do it early in the morning to avoid harsh sun rays beating down your back. A small town in Vietnam, Hoi An has its rice terraces, palm groves, vegetable patches, and bustling fishing villages surprisingly close to each other. You'd be able to pass pleasantly-coloured vegetable patches that supply the Hoi AN community with its fresh produce. Whizz past paddy fields and gaze at the water buffaloes lazying in them, while being enveloped with the unpolluted breeze of this small-town city. Whenever you're tired, you can always stop at a local restaurant for a delicious drink or to grab a scrumptious bite.

Take a stroll down the old town of Hoi An, and you'd be exposed to the wonderful daily happenings at this endearing city. One of the most eye-catching scenes would be the groups of boys wandering around the city, dressed in furry costumes, carrying around a big head of a made-up dragon. They earn their livelihood by performing dragon dances on the streets. But if you visit the areas that are in proximity to the old town during the night, you'd be able to witness fun practising sessions of this dance, at the nooks down the lane. Don't be scared to sit around the corner and be spellbound by these captivating performances.