Life's a beach

Vietnam is renowned for its rich history, buzzing cities, natural beauty and unique cuisine. But it’s also becoming an alluring destination for luxury resort stays.

- GENEVIEVE GANNON

I’m in a minivan, speeding past southern Vietnam’s vast sugarcane fields and the pleasures that draw so many travellers to this beautiful land: ancient temples, vibrant markets and steaming pho served at roadside noodle houses. But for now, I’m leaving them behind to delve into the country’s more luxurious offerings. The sparkling beauty of Vietnam’s winding cerulean coastline has made it a Mecca for beach resorts, and that’s where I’m heading for some recreation and relaxation.

My first stop is Meliá Ho Tram Beach Resort. Just two hours from Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), the Mediterranean-inspired resort has a reputation for luxury. I’d landed in HCMC just 12 hours earlier, and even though the flying time is a relatively civilised eight hours from Sydney, the prospect of a post-flight pampering is always welcome. So, I’m delighted when my host guides me to the YHI Spa, where a traditional Vietnamese oil massage is on offer. Set among idyllic still water and lush greenery, the spa is a haven. All is silent except for the slap of koi fish in the nearby pond, and my stress quickly melts away.

Generally, I prefer sightseeing and hiking holidays to sunbathing and relaxing, but the sunlight is dancing on the ocean and as I drink a cocktail at the beach-front level pool, I reconsider my allegiance. My host has arranged dinner under the stars at Muôi, Meliá’s modern Vietnamese restaurant, where the very best spicy, tangy, peanut-y, chilli fresh elements of Vietnamese cuisine are on offer.