Hoi An: Market Tour – Cam Thanh Cooking Class & Basket Boat

Hoi An’s vibrant culinary culture comes alive in this immersive 5-hour adventure. Travelers will explore a local market, learning about unique Vietnamese ingredients before crafting classic dishes like Hoi An spring rolls in a hands-on cooking class. The journey culminates with a serene bamboo basket boat ride, where guests can soak in the tranquil waterways and witness captivating local performances. This comprehensive tour offers an authentic taste of Hoi An’s rich traditions, leaving visitors eager to discover more.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive Hoi An experience including market visit, cooking class, and bamboo basket boat ride, lasting 5 hours and costing $29.23 per person.
• Cooking class at a traditional stilt house on the river, where participants learn to cook 4 Vietnamese dishes and experience traditional cooking methods.
• Market visit to learn about Vietnamese cuisine and ingredients, with opportunities to bargain and immerse in the local culinary culture.
• Peaceful bamboo basket boat ride in the Bay Mau Coconut Forest, providing a glimpse into the traditional way of life in the Mekong Delta.
• Tour includes a local chef/English-speaking guide, cooking ingredients, traditional meal, and basket boat trip, with options for dietary preferences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a comprehensive Hoi An experience, combining a visit to the local market, a hands-on cooking class in a traditional stilt house, and a relaxing bamboo basket boat ride.

It lasts 5 hours and costs $29.23 per person, with a maximum group size of 12. Pickup from hotels in the Hoi An area is included.

The tour guide provides live commentary in English, along with an audio guide. Participants will learn to cook 4 Vietnamese dishes and experience traditional cooking methods during the cooking class.

Cooking Class Details

The cooking class takes place in a traditional stilt house on the river.

Participants learn to prepare four classic Vietnamese dishes: fish in clay pot, Hoi An spring rolls, papaya salad, and Hoi An rice pancakes.

They experience traditional cooking methods like pounding and grinding rice.

The class provides an opportunity to gain insight into Vietnamese cuisine, from understanding the ingredients to mastering the techniques.

Attendees can expect a hands-on, interactive experience that immerses them in the local culinary culture.

Market Visit

One part of the tour involves a visit to the local market in Hoi An. Here, participants learn about the diverse Vietnamese cuisine and its ingredients.

They explore the market, discovering herbs, spices, and produce unique to the region. The tour provides a shopping bag and conical hats, immersing participants in the local market experience.

Guides offer insights into bargaining techniques, empowering participants to negotiate prices confidently. This market visit offers a behind-the-scenes look at the vibrant culinary culture of Hoi An, setting the stage for the hands-on cooking class that follows.

Basket Boat Experience

Following the market visit, participants embark on a unique bamboo basket boat ride in the Bay Mau Coconut Forest of the Mekong Delta.

These traditional basket boats, known as "thuyền khơi", provide a peaceful and immersive experience. Guests can try their hand at fishing crabs and observe skilled local performers demonstrating the art of basket boat maneuvering.

The serene setting of the coconut forest, with its lush greenery and tranquil waterways, creates a captivating backdrop for this memorable activity.

The serene setting of the coconut forest, with its lush greenery and tranquil waterways, creates a captivating backdrop for this memorable activity.

The basket boat experience offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life in this picturesque region of Vietnam.

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Inclusions and Exclusions

Although the tour includes a range of activities and experiences, there are some additional exclusions to be aware of.

The tour covers the cost of the local chef/English-speaking guide, cooking ingredients, unlimited mineral water and passion juices, the traditional lunch or dinner, and the basket boat trip and coconut village ticket.

However, personal expenses and any other costs not explicitly mentioned are excluded.

It’s important to note that the tour is adaptable to accommodate dietary preferences like vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free.

Participants should bring comfortable shoes, a change of clothes, a camera, and a hat.

Cancellation Policy

The cancellation policy for this tour is straightforward. You can cancel your booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This provides flexibility in case your plans change or you need to adjust your itinerary. The tour operator understands that unexpected situations may arise, so they offer this generous cancellation window.

This policy ensures that you can book with confidence, knowing you won’t lose your money if you can’t attend. Just be sure to provide at least 24 hours’ notice to receive a full refund of your tour cost.

Recommended Items

Travelers are recommended to bring a few items to enhance their experience on this market tour and cooking class.

Travelers are recommended to bring a few items to enhance their experience on this market tour and cooking class.

Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for the market stroll and basket boat ride. A change of clothes is advised, as cooking can get messy.

Don’t forget a camera to capture the vibrant market scenes and your culinary creations. A hat or sun protection is also suggested, as some activities take place outdoors.

Lastly, packing light is recommended, as you’ll receive a complimentary shopping bag for any market purchases.

With these essentials, you’ll be well-prepared to fully learn about the authentic Hoi An experience.

Customer Reviews

Participants have overwhelmingly praised this market tour and cooking class experience, awarding it an impressive 4.7 out of 5-star rating based on 3 reviews.

Reviewers highlighted the authentic and immersive nature of the activities, from learning about Vietnamese cuisine at the local market to hands-on cooking instruction using traditional methods.

The fun, interactive atmosphere and opportunity to connect with others were also cited as key positives.

While the feedback is highly favorable overall, a few reviewers noted room for improvement in areas like organization and communication.

Nevertheless, the majority found the experience to be a highlight of their Hoi An visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Ingredients to the Cooking Class?

It’s best to check with the cooking class organizers about bringing your own ingredients. They typically provide all the necessary ingredients, so bringing your own may not be necessary or accommodated. It’s best to inquire ahead of time.

Do I Need to Have Prior Cooking Experience?

No, you don’t need prior cooking experience. The cooking class is suitable for all skill levels. The instructor will provide hands-on guidance and teach traditional cooking techniques, allowing you to learn and enjoy the experience regardless of your culinary background.

Is the Basket Boat Ride Suitable for Young Children?

The basket boat ride is generally suitable for young children, though parental supervision is recommended. The boat is stable and the water is calm, but children should be closely monitored for safety.

Will I Receive a Certificate After Completing the Cooking Class?

No, participants do not receive a certificate after completing the cooking class. The focus is on the hands-on cooking experience and learning authentic Vietnamese dishes rather than earning a formal certification.

Can I Choose the Specific Dishes I Want to Learn to Cook?

Participants can choose the specific dishes they want to learn during the cooking class. The menu is pre-set, but the chef can accommodate dietary preferences and work with guests to tailor the class to their interests.

The Sum Up

This immersive Hoi An tour offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the vibrant culinary culture of the region. From the local market to the hands-on cooking class and serene basket boat ride, it’s a well-rounded experience that allows visitors to truly enjoy the flavors and traditions of this charming Vietnamese town. Whether you’re a foodie or simply seeking a memorable cultural encounter, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: