David & Marie-Helene (MH) revisited Vietnam in June 2024 – Part Two
From Bai San Ho it was continuation up the coast north to Quy Nhon hugging the coast line, just under two hours.
Quick tour around Quy Nhon city, described as sleepy fishing village by some, although some of the more recent tall condos and offices are visible from a distance and development is certainly coming.
Then it was time to check in at the Anantara hotel for the night. Again boutique style, 25 very well designed luxurious pool villas and a small cove beach.
Next door you have the sister property Avani, more simple mid range reflected in price. As with much of this lower central area, tourism is still very much in its infancy and it remains unknown even to many locals.
Next day, late afternoon, we had 45 minute transfer to Quy Nhon Railway station for the Vietage train up to Danang. The “train” is actually a luxurious 6 compartment carriage attached to the main service, operated by Anantara and totally self contained with its own bar, toilets and meals served at your table. Journey took just over 5 hours. Its just over 321 km, so the train is frequently overtaken by cars and even mopeds. It operates daily Danang to Quy Nhon and onto Nha Trang in day light hours, returning late afternoon and arriving into Danang just after midnight.
It is an interesting comfortable experience. Didn’t see much of the scenery as journey was at night. The regular train offered a very different and totally authentic style that maybe I would have enjoyed in my long gone younger years. Or on reflection, maybe not. I seemed to like comfort and reasonable privacy even back then.
On arrival Danang 40 minute road transfer to Hoi An where we stayed at the Beachside Boutique Hotel. As the name suggests, it is quite small. 112 rooms and whitewashed French colonial style. Perfect location, attractive gardens leading to beach front, and 10 minutes shuttle to the old town. The design style seems to attract “Westerners“ – including Australasians – much more than regional clients. The evening was spent in Hoi An old town.
MH said “Yes, Hoi An is a tourist trap, but also magically atmospheric. Must see. You can visit during the day when there are less crowds, but it is at night, when it is lit by colourful lanterns, that is really comes to life. When I first visited, about 12 years back, it was one street. Now it is three on both sides of the river. So many restaurants – I would go to Morning Glory and it never disappoints – shops and stalls. Love it, and a great place for reasonable quality souvenirs.”
Following day it was hotel visit to the Four Seasons Nam Hai, which always impresses. Constant subtle enhancements. Anantara Hoi An is located just a few minutes walk into the old town. Then it was drive along the Danang beach road – so many new hotels, going several rows back. Danang City has also expanded, with several new shopping areas and high class malls.
Our day ended with check in at the Intercontinental Danang, which is actually located about 25 minutes drive north, in a lush tropical mountainous setting and an extensive virtually private golden sand beach. Top class facilities, Vietnamese styled Palace exterior and lavish playful interiors. We were both very impressed about everything at the hotel – accommodation, facilities, setting and the highly personalised service.
Morning inspection of sea & beach, several ways to access – walk way, buggy or funicular tram. And then to airport, 40 minutes drive. Intercontinental have their own airport service to assist with speedy transit through check -in and their own lounge. Then 90 minute flight up to Hanoi, the capital. Slightly slower paced that Saigon, maybe more traditional.
We stayed at La Siesta Premium, located in the old quarter. Also visited the relatively new Capella Hotel and tried to revisit Sofitel Metropole but a certain President Putin was staying, so tight security. I did try, but even I am not that important!
Next morning, time for exploring the old quarter, walking around Hoan Kiem lake with its numerous restaurants, shop houses and brand names. And then off to airport for flight to London via Doha.
We had a wonderful trip. We saw so much in a relatively short time. I’m glad we got a chance to create new experiences places and to revist some ol favourites. Time to assess some of our existing partners and maybe look at new opportunities.
Some areas are developing too fast, or focus on mass volume, while others are such a pleasant surprise. To both of us, Saigon and Hoi An are must see places on any tour, but we also enjoyed Hanoi so much this time. MH had chosen a hotel in the atmospheric old quarter and it made such a difference. A real sight, sound, smell area – authentic, charming, and interesting at every turn, but with nothing to frighten you – maybe except the horn from an upcoming moped.
We also saw some exceptional beach resort hotels. Vietnam is selling well, particularly as a multi centre tour, taking in at least 3/4 places. The best way to really appreciate the varied and numerous attractions.
DK
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