Secret Shores

Would you believe that one of Southeast Asia's most beautiful beach resort destinations could be unknown to even the most intrepid of jetsetters? Guests to Amanoi in Vietnam will discover not just the brand's unforgettable crafted luxury, but also the splendours of a protected reserve unlike any other.

- YANNI TAN

When you think Asian tropical beach destination, several things come to mind: swaying coconut trees, lounger-studded beaches, tourist hordes and bustling local businesses. That is what I'm expecting of Vietnam’s southeastern Ninh Thuan province, after hopping onto a Mercedes-Benz SUV at Cam Ranh Airport, where I arrive via a short transit flight from Ho Chi Minh City. The next 75 minutes turns out a completely unexpected, jaw-droppingly stunning drive to Amanoi.

Along a gently winding road cut into hilly terrain, we cruise past an idyllic landscape that alternates between rice paddies, flooded river systems, and small, sleepy seafront villages with modern fishing operations and neatly docked boats. Soon enough, the full glory of Vinh Hy Bay reveals itself-mesmerising turquoise waters lapping onto pristine beaches in numerous deserted bays and coves, with nary a soul or hospitality operation in sight. Instead of tall palms on flat groves, the shore is dotted with jagged cliffs and rocky outcrops swathed in low shrubbery, standing sentinel over distant villages.

This is the Mediterranea of Asia, I think to myself. I could be in Sicily or Corsica. It's not just the scenery, but the sheer sense of isolation. There are barely any vehicles on the scenic route (which happens to be so well-paved it trumps some stretches of Bukit Timah Road), and not a soul appears to be out and about. Time seems to stand still, and this level of tranquillity and authenticity is not something I've seen in a long time. Spotless, noiseless and picture-perfect, this secluded stretch of Vietnam feels surreal.

THE AMAN WAY