SHORE EXCURSION TIEN SA or CHAN MAY port to HOI AN COUNTRYSIDE plus FOOT MASSAGE

Introduction: A Taste of Rural Charm with a Touch of Relaxation

If you’re visiting Vietnam and want a full immersion into the peaceful, scenic countryside surrounding Hoi An, this shore excursion from Tien Sa or Chan May ports promises a well-rounded day of authentic local experiences. From tranquil coconut forests to traditional villages and a comforting herbal foot massage, this tour balances cultural discovery with genuine relaxation.

One of the things we love about this experience is how it combines interactive activities—like basket boat riding and pottery-making—with downtime in a traditional family home, plus a delightful lunch featuring authentic local flavors. It’s a chance to see a different side of Vietnam that isn’t just about busy streets and bustling markets.

A potential consideration is the tour’s length of around 7 hours, which includes a lot of stops—so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a packed itinerary and don’t mind a full day out. The private nature of the tour ensures a personalized feel, making it great for families, small groups, or couples seeking a more intimate experience. This excursion fits those craving a mix of adventure, cultural insight, and relaxing moments, all within a beautiful rural setting.

Key Points

• Authentic local experiences like basket boat rides, pottery-making, and farming activities.
• Comfortable transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle ensures a stress-free day.
• Cultural insights shared by knowledgeable guides, enhancing your understanding of local life.
• Delicious, genuine Vietnamese food served at a local family home adds flavor and authenticity.
• Relaxing foot massage with medicinal herbs offers a soothing break amid the busy day.
• Early start (8:00 am) maximizes your time and allows for a smooth schedule before the cruise departure.

Exploring the Itinerary: What This Tour Offers

Starting Point: From Port to Hoi An Countryside

The journey begins with a prompt pickup from the Tien Sa or Chan May port entrance—crucial because timing matters, especially to ensure you’re back on time before your ship departs. Your guide will hold a welcome board with your name, making it easy to find them. Expect a comfortable drive in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, which is a welcome relief after potential travel fatigue.

Bay Mau Coconut Forest & Basket Boat Adventure

The first stop transports you to the Bay Mau Coconut Forest, famous for its nipa palm trees and water coconut groves. Here, you’ll hop into a traditional bamboo basket boat, a quintessential Vietnamese experience. We loved the way the guides demonstrated their expert skills at throwing fishing nets, which gave us a glimpse into local livelihoods.

What makes this part special is the opportunity to try fishing yourself, perhaps pulling crabs from the water, or simply enjoying the calm scenery. The guides also showcase coconut leaf crafts, making watches, fish, and grasshoppers—small souvenirs that highlight local artisanship. The one-hour activity is fun and interactive, especially for families or curious travelers.

Tra Que Vegetable Village: Farming with a Personal Touch

Next, you’ll visit Tra Que Vegetable Village, where a local family welcomes you into their daily routines. This is a genuine look at traditional farming in Vietnam, with the chance to work the soil, fertilize with seaweed, sow seeds, and water plants using traditional tools like watering cans.

Multiple reviews mention the friendliness of the hosts and the authentic feel of the farming activities. One guest remarked, “It was fascinating to see how locals grow their vegetables and get involved in the process.” The experience offers insight into rural life, and the inclusion of drinks and stories from the family makes it memorable.

Exploring Hoi An’s Pottery Heritage

Following the agricultural experience, you’ll head to Thanh Ha Pottery Village, a hub of tradition and craftsmanship. Watching artisans shape clay into dishes and decorative items is a treat. The highlight? Writing your name on a pottery piece for keepsake, which adds a personal touch to your visit.

This stop illustrates Vietnam’s artisanal skills and allows you to try your hand at pottery. It’s engaging without feeling rushed, and the souvenirs serve as a tangible reminder of your time in Vietnam.

Lunch with a Local Family

By now, you’ll be ready for a well-earned break. The tour includes a lunch at a local family‘s home, where you’re served authentic Vietnamese dishes. This is where the tour truly shines—these home-cooked meals often become highlights for travelers craving genuine flavors. Expect dishes prepared with care, showcasing local ingredients, and served in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Relaxation: Herbal Foot Bath & Massage

After a hearty lunch, it’s time for some relaxation. The herbal foot bath and massage are performed with medicinal herbs, providing soothing relief after a busy day. Many reviewers mention how this simple, traditional treatment leaves them feeling refreshed and pampered.

This segment is brief—about 30 minutes—but it’s a highly valued part of the experience, especially after walking and activities. It’s a perfect way to unwind before heading back to the port.

Return to the Port

The tour wraps up with a smooth drop-off back at your cruise ship, usually about an hour before departure time. The private transfer ensures you won’t feel rushed, and the guides generally have a good sense of timing to avoid delays.

Why this Tour is a Great Value

At $150 per person, this full-day experience offers a rich mix of activities that would typically cost more if booked separately. The inclusion of entrance tickets, private transport, guides, meals, and activities like basket boat rides and pottery-making makes it a comprehensive package.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on authentic, hands-on experiences combined with relaxing moments like the foot massage. The small-group or private setup ensures personalized attention, which enhances the fun and learning.

Who Will Love This Tour

This excursion is ideal for travelers seeking culture with a genuine local vibe. Those who enjoy experiencing rural traditions, trying their hand at crafts, and relaxing with traditional treatments will find it especially rewarding. Families, couples, or small groups looking for a day away from touristy spots but still wanting comfort and guidance will appreciate the thoughtfulness behind this tour.

If you prefer a leisurely, interactive day that combines adventure with authentic Vietnamese hospitality, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded, Authentic Day Out

This tour offers a rare glimpse into Vietnam’s countryside life, blending hands-on activities with cultural insights and relaxation. From basket boat rides in coconut forests to pottery and farming demonstrations, it keeps you engaged and connected to local traditions. The inclusion of a tasty home-cooked lunch and a herbal foot massage makes it both fun and restorative.

For travelers craving an intimate, authentic experience that’s well-organized and thoughtfully curated, this trip provides excellent value. It’s especially suited for those who want to see the rural side of Vietnam without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

In sum, if you’re after a full day of engaging activities, cultural depth, and soothing moments—all in a private setting—this tour is a fantastic choice.

FAQ

What is the start time for this tour?
The tour begins at 8:00 am, making the most of your day before your cruise departs.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be picked up and dropped off in a private, modern, air-conditioned vehicle, which keeps the journey comfortable.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 7 hours, providing a full day of activities and relaxation.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the coconut forest, farming activities, and pottery village are covered in the price.

Can children participate?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Child rates apply when sharing with two paying adults.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for walking, farming activities, and getting a bit messy are recommended.

Are the activities suitable for all fitness levels?
Generally yes, but some activities like farming and basket boat riding involve physical movement; moderate mobility is helpful.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private tour or small group, ensuring personalized service and flexibility.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This detailed, culturally immersive tour provides a balanced mix of adventure, craftsmanship, and relaxation—perfect for those wanting a true taste of Vietnam’s rural charm while ensuring comfort and authentic hospitality.