Happy Day Retreat in Hoi An

If you’re looking to step away from the typical tourist trail and find a moment of genuine peace in Hoi An, the Happy Day Retreat at Quc Linh Eco Village might just be what you need. For around $50 per person, you get a thoughtfully designed 8-hour experience that combines mindfulness practices, local cuisine, and community connection. This isn’t your average tour; it’s a chance to slow down, reconnect, and learn skills that you can carry home.

What we love about this retreat is its attention to authenticity and sustainability. The setting at Eco Village offers a quiet, natural backdrop free from the hustle of the city, and the activities are designed to foster genuine well-being rather than just sightseeing. Two standout features are the delicious vegan breakfast—a nourishing start that sets the tone—and the hands-on Cao Lau cooking session, which gives you a true taste of Hoi An’s culinary heritage.

One possible consideration is the pace; it’s a full day of activities, so it’s best suited for those eager to dedicate a day to mindfulness and culture. If you enjoy quiet reflection, authentic local experiences, and a lighter, more meaningful approach to travel, this retreat is a perfect fit.

This experience is ideal for travellers seeking mental clarity, those interested in cultural cuisine, or anyone wanting to support local charities while enriching their understanding of Vietnamese traditions. It’s especially suited for people who appreciate a personalized, small-group feel, since the tour is private and designed for your group only.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience through cooking Cao Lau and connecting with nature.
• Balanced mindfulness activities, including meditation, yoga, and walking practices.
• Eco-friendly and community-focused, supporting local charities.
• Full-day itinerary packed with meaningful practices, not just sightseeing.
• Quiet, natural setting that promotes peace and reflection.
• Suitable for most travelers, including those with a beginner level in yoga or meditation.

An In-Depth Look at the Happy Day Retreat in Hoi An

The Happy Day Retreat offers a unique blend of wellness, culture, and community spirit that resonates with travelers looking for more than just a quick tour. Starting bright and early at 8:00 am at Quoc Linh Eco Village, you’re welcomed into a peaceful environment that immediately suggests a break from the usual tourist frenzy. This is a place where the focus is on nourishing your body and mind.

The Morning: Nourishing Body and Mind

Your day begins with a vegan soup breakfast—a thoughtful choice that provides healthy, energizing fuel for the activities ahead. The nourishing start sets the tone for the entire retreat, emphasizing mindful eating and self-care. It’s a simple yet powerful way to connect with the local approach to health and well-being.

At 9:00 am, you’ll challenge yourself with a floating raft activity. While it might sound playful, the real goal is to encourage concentration and trust as you balance and navigate. This activity, followed by meditation in nature, offers a gentle reminder of how physical balance and mental calmness are intertwined.

Mid-Morning: Cultivating Calm

By 10:00 am, you’re sipping meditation tea, a calming ritual that helps you embrace tranquility. Whether you’re a seasoned meditator or new to the practice, this moment helps to center your thoughts and prepare for the afternoon’s deeper experiences.

Cooking Cao Lau: A Flavorful Cultural Insight

One of the highlights is the mindful cooking session where you learn to prepare Cao Lau, Hoi An’s signature dish. This hands-on experience is more than just cooking; it’s an opportunity to understand local ingredients, techniques, and traditions. Afterward, you’ll enjoy your freshly made meal, savoring the flavors and stories behind this iconic dish.

Walking Meditation and Relaxation

Following lunch, a serene walking meditation allows you to slow down and truly notice your surroundings—the sounds, sights, and textures of the natural environment. This practice transforms a simple walk into a mindful experience, fostering appreciation for the moment.

Later, there’s time to relax and reflect, allowing your body and mind to absorb the calmness cultivated throughout the day.

Afternoon Deepening and Movement

The afternoon kicks off with group discussions and shared insights, where you can deepen your understanding of mindfulness practices and exchange personal experiences. This community element enriches the individual practices, making the experience more meaningful.

At 3:00 pm, you’ll participate in Buddha yoga and Qi Gong, gentle movements that harmonize your body and spirit. These practices, suitable for most fitness levels, help release tension and boost your energy, leaving you feeling refreshed and balanced.

Wrapping Up with Mindful Refreshments and Giving

The day winds down with a mindful snack of fruits or kombucha, a perfect way to relish simple pleasures and practice gratitude. As a final gesture of kindness, you’ll have the opportunity to support a children’s charity, adding a layer of purpose and generosity to your visit.

What Makes This Retreat Special?

This day-long retreat is more than just a series of activities; it’s a holistic approach to wellness rooted in local culture and sustainability. The setting at Eco Village is quiet and natural, ideal for reflection and mindfulness. The inclusion of cooking, meditation, and movement offers a well-rounded experience that appeals to both beginners and seasoned practitioners.

The private group format ensures a personalized experience, free of crowds, allowing you to focus on your own journey. Plus, the value for money—a full day of guided activities, local cuisine, and community engagement—stands out in a tourist-heavy region where many tours can be superficial or overly commercialized.

What Travelers Say

A Tripadvisor reviewer summarized it well: “Healthy life, mindfulness, love and compassion. Eco-friendly, many things to learn and useful for life.” This reflects the retreat’s core values—authenticity, sustainability, and personal growth.

Practical Details

The retreat is easy to access, starting at Quoc Linh Eco Village in Hoi An, near public transportation, with a flexible cancellation policy (free if canceled 24 hours in advance). Since it’s a private tour activity, only your group participates, making it ideal for friends, couples, or small families seeking a personalized experience.

Who Should Consider This Retreat?

This experience is best suited for those interested in wellness and cultural learning. Whether you’re a beginner curious about mindfulness or an experienced practitioner wanting a peaceful day in nature, you’ll find value here. It’s also perfect for travelers who want to give back through charity donations, or those looking for a ** quieter, meaningful alternative** to typical sightseeing.

If your goal is to reconnect with yourself and support local communities, this retreat offers a genuine and heartfelt way to do so. It’s not about rushing through sights but engaging in practices that bring long-lasting benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $50?
The fee covers the full 8-hour experience, including breakfast, activities like meditation, cooking, yoga, Qi Gong, and guided discussions, as well as local snacks and the charity donation.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the activities are designed to be accessible for most participants, including those new to yoga, meditation, or mindfulness practices.

Do I need to bring anything?
Most activities are conducted in comfortable clothing, and all necessary materials are provided. It’s wise to wear suitable attire for movement and bring a water bottle.

What is the setting like?
The retreat takes place at Quoc Linh Eco Village, offering a peaceful, natural environment away from the busy streets of Hoi An.

Can I participate if I have dietary restrictions?
The breakfast is vegan, and the focus on local, plant-based foods suggests flexibility for dietary needs—check with the provider if you have specific restrictions.

Is the retreat suitable for children or elderly?
Most activities are gentle, making it suitable for a wide age range. However, younger children might need to be supervised closely.

What should I expect from the walking meditation?
A slow, mindful walk that encourages awareness of your surroundings—perfect for grounding and appreciating nature.

How do I support the charity?
The charity donation is integrated into the day’s activities, and you’ll be encouraged to contribute as part of the experience.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start time, receiving a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Happy Day Retreat in Hoi An offers a refreshing alternative to conventional tours—one that emphasizes personal well-being, cultural connection, and community support. It’s well-suited for travelers who value authentic experiences and meaningful participation over superficial sightseeing.

You’ll leave not just with memories of a beautiful day, but with practical mindfulness tools and a deeper appreciation for Vietnamese culture. Whether you’re seeking mental clarity, culinary insights, or just a peaceful respite, this retreat provides a genuine, well-organized way to connect with yourself and the local environment.

If you’re after a day of calm, learning, and connection, this is a worthwhile choice. It’s especially rewarding for those who want an experience that leaves a positive footprint—not just on your mind, but also on the community.