It’s hard to believe it’s been over a decade since we first cycled from Saigon to Hanoi, awed by the energy of the cities, the history both ancient and colonial, the people, the food, the beaches, the myriad shades of green...

Miraculously, not much has changed—except perhaps the level of luxury and personal service offered by hotels keen to woo western travellers. The people are the same – open, industrious, welcoming, eager to meet foreigners, and more eager still to share their beloved homeland with us.

It’s impossible to explain what makes Vietnam so special. All we can say is that every time we go back, we hold our breath – that it won’t have evolved too much, that the people won’t have changed, that it won’t be any less special. So far, so good.

Ana Mandara, Nha Trang
Ana Mandara means “beautiful home for the guests” and it most certainly is. Set amidst acres of tropical gardens along a gorgeous white sand beach, the Ana Mandara is spectacularly designed and built with local materials and methods to feel like a traditional Vietnamese village. Watch the sun rise over the South China Sea as you sip lotus tea from your villa balcony, or relax by the pool after a day of cycling. And then there’s always the Six Senses spa...

Life Resort, Hoi An
Life Resort is set in a tropical garden on a tranquil river, a few steps away from a charming ancient town. The resort combines the elements of French colonial, Japanese, Chinese and Dutch cultures with warm hospitality. The spa offers a variety of treatments and Chinese medicine.

Pilgrimage Village, Hué
The Pilgrimage Village is located in the peaceful countryside just 4 km from the centre of Hué. You’ll come to appreciate this after learning that the only thing the Vietnamese love more than waking up early is honking the horns on their mopeds! The rooms are simple but comfortable, personal, and stylish.

Sofitel Metropole Hanoi, Hanoi
A gorgeous French colonial-style hotel located in the heart of Hanoi, the Metropole is a hotel with a history. Built in 1901, it has welcomed politicians, business leaders, artists... and now us.

12/09