Over the past decade, Vietnam has steadily risen as a must-visit destination on the global travel map. Beyond the bustling hubs of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the country offers a wealth of captivating locales waiting to be explored. One such gem is the historic town of Hoi An — a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.
Often compared to Malaysia’s own Melaka for its well-preserved heritage buildings, Hoi An enchants visitors with its small-town charm, rich cultural legacy, and vibrant streets that feel frozen in time.
Getting There
The easiest way to reach Hoi An is via Da Nang, one of Vietnam’s largest modern cities with plenty of direct international flights. From Da Nang International Airport, it takes less than 30 minutes by car or taxi to arrive in Hoi An.
A Town That Moves at Its Own Pace
The shift in atmosphere is immediate. Compared to the chaos of larger cities, Hoi An feels calmer, with fewer cars and more people walking or cycling through its lantern-lit streets.
Accommodation options range from sleek modern hotels to charming colonial-inspired boutique stays. Among the more beloved choices is Little Hoi An Hotel, a riverside property facing the famous Thu Bon River. With its heritage-inspired design and artful interiors, the hotel feels more like a stately old mansion than a modern inn.
Cafés, Cuisine, and Culture
Hoi An is a café lover’s paradise. Vietnam’s coffee culture is legendary, and in Hoi An, stylish coffeehouses line the streets, each serving its own take on the country’s world-renowned brew.
When it comes to food, visitors are spoilt for choice with hundreds of eateries offering everything from local delicacies to global flavors. For Muslim travelers, halal options are limited, but the abundance of vegetarian restaurants makes dining easy. With Vietnam’s strong Buddhist influence, plant-based menus are both creative and diverse — from banana curries and green bean stews to fresh and fried vegetable spring rolls.
A Lantern Wonderland by Night
As evening falls, Hoi An transforms into a glowing wonderland of lanterns. The old town comes alive with vivid colors — bridges, shopfronts, sampans, and floating boats along the Thu Bon River sparkle under the warm glow of handcrafted lanterns. Street stalls bustle with life, inviting you to sit down, sip a drink, and soak in the city’s magical nightscape.
Shopping and Tailor-Made Treasures
Hoi An is also a shopper’s delight. From the elegant Vietnamese Ao Dai to intricate handicrafts, the town offers an abundance of souvenirs worth bringing home. But what truly sets Hoi An apart is its tailoring tradition — skilled tailors can custom-make suits, dresses, or shirts within days, at a fraction of the price elsewhere. It’s no wonder many international travelers come here specifically to have clothes made.
Picture-Perfect Memories
Every corner of Hoi An feels like a postcard. The old town, with its preserved shophouses, temples, and riverside vistas, is a photographer’s dream — ideal for both Instagram posts and lifelong memories.
Luxury by the Sea
For those seeking a more indulgent escape, Hoi An also boasts luxurious seaside resorts. One standout is the Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, a five-star property with its own private beach. Its signature restaurant, La Sen, offers exquisite dining — from fresh seafood to halal-certified meats — all set against a breathtaking coastal backdrop.
Why Hoi An Should Be Next on Your List
Blending heritage, culture, cuisine, and understated luxury, Hoi An is a destination that captivates every traveler. It’s charming by day, magical by night, and unforgettable long after you’ve left.
So if you’re planning a getaway not too far from Malaysia, make your way to Hoi An. Chances are, once you’ve been, you’ll be planning your return before you’ve even left.
