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Hotels & Spas
Review: Vinpearl Resort Nha Trang, Vietnam
By Belinda Luksic
Published in the July-September 2012 issue.
First Impressions
Often referred to as the Disneyland of Southeast Asia, the island of Hon Tre appears on the horizon, its name emblazoned in Hollywood-style white lettering on the side of a mountain. Arrival at the Vinpearl Resort is via a theme park complete with costumed animal characters and amusement rides; the hotel itself is a short buggy ride away past a golf course and tennis courts. By the time you reach the lobby you’ll be ready for the cool marble interiors and high ceilings that await; just beyond, the resort’s vast pool beckons with its sparkling blue waters, sun lounges and pool bar.
The Location
Off the coast of Vietnam’s popular Nha Trang and a leisurely 15-minute cable-car ride over the waters of Nha Trang Bay, the five-storey Vinpearl Resort sprawls across its private island, encircled by mountains and the sea. City life – restaurants, shops, bars – await in Nha Trang, but Vinpearl feels miles away from its bustling streets and crowded beaches.
Rooms
With the emphasis on traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship, the 485 rooms and suites are simply designed and luxuriously appointed – think neutral tones, floorboards and wooden furnishings. Each room leads to a wide balcony and endless views of the ocean, not to mention welcome sea breezes. For those seeking exclusivity and seclusion, the recently opened Vinpearl Luxury Nha Trang, tucked away on the other side of the island, offers 84 private bungalows designed in Neoclassical lines, many with their own plunge pool and beachfront access.
Facilities
While you can easily spend your days lazing in one of the many hammocks along the sandy white beachfront or by the pool, the island offers a myriad of diversions. The newly opened 18-hole Vinpearl Golf Club is a stunning par-71 championship layout designed by IMG. If that sounds like too much hard work, there’s also the Vincharm Day Spa, tennis courts and snorkelling tours as well as an aquarium and amusement park complete with two-storey arcade games room and 4-D cinema. And for those seeking an adrenalin rush, Vinpearl also has its very own Water Park.
Don’t Miss
As sunset approaches, wander up the island’s mountain path and experience the beauty and stillness of Truc Lam Pagoda and Dia Tang Temple. Built on the western side of Hon Tre Mountain, the temple is fronted by an elegant 14-metre statue of the Goddess of Mercy, carved out of white stone. It’s easy to lose yourself in the moment here as you gaze out over the turquoise waters of Nha Trang Bay and watch the sun gently dip into the sea.
vinpearlresortnhatrang.com
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