Student guide to Hoi An: Part two

Did you come here right after high school? If not, what have you done before coming here? Why did you choose to study in Hoi An?

I came to Hoi An right after high school, and I will be starting my military service in the Norwegian armed forces after my semester here.

I wanted to do something different in the time I had to spare between finishing high school and beginning my military service, and I also thought it was a good idea to cover some academic topics that I might meet again in my future studies.

What is your favorite food spot in Hoi An, and what dish would you recommend?

Com Linh, located in the Old Town. I recommend their duck pho!

Was there anything you found challenging when moving here?

I came here together with five of my childhood friends. It might had been even easier to get to know more people if I came to Vietnam without knowing anyone.

If you ask to be put in a room with someone new or write the group exam with others, you get to be more on your own. The class is big, and you don’t want to feel like you missed out on any potential new friendships!

What has been your go-to way to relax after classes?

Ordering a juice at Toan's Café and sitting in the hammock.

Where is your favorite place to study in Hoi An?

I would have to say Toan's café here as well. It is located in a quiet street, and they have great Wi-Fi connection as well as amazing food.

Is there anything you wish you brought to Hoi An, or something you would recommend that future students bring?

I wish I brought more Norwegian chocolate. This is also a great gift to give your new Vietnamese friends!

What is your favorite memory from your time in Hoi An?

Me and some of my classmates went to Ba Na Hills in Da Nang. We had great weather, and it was a super nice day!

Did you come here right after high school? If not, what have you done before coming here? Why did you choose to study in Hoi An?

After high school, I started a degree in Norway. I quickly realized that this programme was not for me, so I dropped out.

After this, I’ve been working as an assistant in a kindergarten and done some traveling. I found out about Kulturstudier and their option to study in Hoi An, and though it would suit me well because I like to travel, and the study programme seemed interesting!

What is your favorite food spot in Hoi An, and what dish would you recommend?

Mix Greek restaurant. I love their chicken souvlaki, and you always get a free dessert there, which is delicious too. They also offer take-away and delivery through the app Grab.

Was there anything you found challenging when moving here?

I found the traffic here to be a bit scary and overwhelming. You will get used to it quickly, but remember to be extra careful in the start.

What has been your go-to way to relax after classes?

Relaxing by the pool at Shining Riverside Hotel, and ordering their passion fruit juice.

Where is your favorite place to study in Hoi An?

Nourish Eatery. They have a co-working area upstairs which we have used a lot during our group exam.

Is there anything you wish you brought to Hoi An, or something that you would recommend that future students bring?

I definitely packed too much stuff, so I can tell you some of the things you don’t have to bring.

Personal care products are becoming more and more accessible in Hoi An, and neighboring Da Nang also has a lot of stores where you can buy skin and hair care products and so on.

Hoi An is also known for its many tailors, so save some space in your luggage if you want to get some tailor-made clothes!

What is your favorite memory from your time in Hoi An?

Probably one of the volleyball matches where we played well against a local team and went out for dinner and drinks afterwards.

As our time in Hoi An is coming to an end, it’s clear that each of us has created unique and unforgettable memories here.

Whether it’s your first adventure after high school or a stop along your academic journey, studying in Hoi An is an experience like no other—one that leaves you richer in knowledge, friendships, and stories to tell.

For those considering joining this journey, take these tips and insights; your own adventure awaits!