Explore | Hoi An

A patchwork quilt of colourful picnic mats and the shallows a soup of frolicking families. At the same time in the parking lot, the air is filled with the scent of sticky street meat and just fried coconut fritters, as a small collection of ad hoc kitchens fire up behind dinky market stands.

Understanding how these garnishes work is key to understanding Vietnamese cuisine and it helps to arm yourself with a little knowledge before you pull up a plastic stool. This guide focuses on the table offerings available in the central province of Hoi An.

The key to identifying a good local food joint is in the intangibles: Care, affection, and attention to detail is evident in the preparation of the dishes, the rice is just right and the place feels as though you’re visiting someone’s home kitchen from the second you sit down. The small, family-run vendors that offer the perfect setting for anyone who wants to eat well, solidly, and for little cash.

Our top places to try it: - Ms Thu (stall number 48) serves a decent bowl at the price tag of 20,000d, as does Madame Hang (stall 35) who served the dish to rapturous applause from Anthony Bourdain - she's got the photos to prove it.

Vietnam Sustainable Space, 8/1 Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, Hội An

Vietnam Sustainable Space, 8/1 Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, Hội An

From G&Ts to martinis, the berry best joint for a juniper fix in the city. 76 Tran Phu St, Hoi An

Have a question about a new Hoi An hotel, restaurant, site or tour with few reviews? Ask here and we'll visit on your behalf. Let Coast be your guide

The key to identifying a good local food joint is in the intangibles: Care, affection, and attention to detail is evident in the preparation of the dishes, the rice is just right and the place feels as though you’re visiting someone’s home kitchen from the second you sit down. The small, family-run vendors that offer the perfect setting for anyone who wants to eat well, solidly, and for little cash.

Now that you are a dong millionaire you'll have arrived in Hoi An with the urge to buy enough counterfeit market goods and souvenirs to last you through to 2020. If so, you'll be over-the-moon to hear that Hoi An's got several markets, and they are are bursting at the seams with just that.

If you’re looking for an easy girls’ getaway for the weekend, Hoi An is a fail-safe option. Fit in a day by the pool, beach and at the spa, some delicious meals out, a cocktail or two and an awesome shopping trip for a guaranteed fun trip with your besties

Perfect your downward dog, realign your chakras, awaken your chi and sip a herbal tea. Nomad Yoga, Hoi An