Quảng Nam Province

Quảng Nam Province: Untouched local charm of Vietnam

When talking about Vietnam, many people mainly think of Hanoi, Da Nang, or Ho Chi Minh City. But for mr.hotsia, Quảng Nam Province is a destination full of fascinating stories not to be overlooked. Located in the southern part of Vietnam's Central Coast, this province is about 860 kilometers from Hanoi and around 865 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City. It borders Da Nang to the north and has a coastline over 125 kilometers long. This is a province that perfectly blends beautiful nature with authentic local culture.

Travel Routes to Quảng Nam

For those wanting to follow mr.hotsia’s footsteps, getting to Quảng Nam is not difficult. The nearest airport is Da Nang, where you can fly directly and then take a bus or taxi conveniently to Quảng Nam. If traveling from Thailand, I have tried the route via Mukdahan - Savannakhet, Laos, then by bus to Hue, followed by train or car to Da Nang, and finally into Quảng Nam city. Alternatively, you can take the route through Ubon Ratchathani - Pakse - Kontum and then by bus to Quảng Nam. This kind of journey allows you to experience the lifestyle and living conditions of people in each area along the way.

Tam Ky City: The Lesser-Known Capital

Many are familiar with Hoi An, the famous World Heritage city, but the actual capital of Quảng Nam Province is Tam Ky. I had the chance to stay one night there before continuing to Da Nang. Tam Ky remains peaceful and simple, with a bustling morning market at the heart of local life. I stayed atDong A Hotelon the main street of the city, which is affordable at about 400 baht per night. Importantly, many hotels in Vietnam offer massage services, though I didn’t try it this time.

Impressive Local Lifestyle and Cuisine

One thing that impressed me in Quảng Nam was the unique and distinctive food. Locals here enjoy “Gà Mẹt,” known as Vietnamese chicken rice, which differs from other places by shredding the chicken and seasoning it carefully before serving on hot rice, rather than using large chicken pieces. I tried a famous stall at Tam Ky morning market and also visited “BA LUAN,” a well-known chicken rice restaurant on Phan Chu Trinh street. Although the price was higher than usual, I was willing to pay to experience the authentic local flavor.
WatchVietnamese Chicken Rice Clipthat will give you a clearer picture of how the chicken rice here is different.

Hoi An: A World Heritage Site Everyone Must Visit

Although I didn’t stop in Hoi An this time, anyone visiting Quảng Nam should not miss it. Hoi An is a World Heritage city full of ancient architecture, a lively night market, and a romantic riverside atmosphere. It was once a bustling port city in ancient times and has preserved its beauty well. For those wanting to experience this atmosphere, mr.hotsia recommends planning to stay one or two nights here to truly absorb the local lifestyle.

The Tranquility of Tam Ky and Authentic Lifestyle

Back to Tam Ky, while walking around the city, I found it still peaceful and not overwhelmed by tourists like Hoi An, even though they are only 40 kilometers apart. The city has a small lake where locals often fish, a Coop Mark mall as the shopping center, and a morning market filled with lively conversations and local bustle. It was a great opportunity to see the real rural Vietnamese lifestyle, which I believe many travelers to Vietnam often miss.

Taste the Sea with Grilled Button Squid

If you like seafood, I recommend trying grilled button squid, a famous Vietnamese dish. In Quảng Nam, there are well-known restaurants serving this dish fresh and with bold flavors. mr.hotsia has a clipVietnamese Grilled Button Squidthat will make your mouth water and want to try it immediately.

Summary

Quảng Nam may not be as globally famous as Hoi An or Da Nang, but for mr.hotsia, it is a destination full of sincerity and intriguing stories. From the lovely people’s lifestyle, bustling morning markets, unique local food, to the tranquility of Tam Ky, the lesser-known capital. If you want to escape the hustle and experience Vietnam from a different perspective, Quảng Nam is the answer that mr.hotsia invites you to discover for yourself.