Hoi An was one of my favourite destinations in Vietnam and Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort and Spa, was a tropical oasis, offering luxury, peace and an authentic Vietnamese feel.
Hoi An is a fascinating ancient city, abundant with culture, the arts and shopping, including renowned tailor-made clothing options, which are quick, affordable and items made to measure. The nightly markets are vibrant and abuzz with activity.
In keeping with traditional Vietnamese architecture and style, this boutique hotel has a personalised signature, while maintaining high standards of luxury and modern commodities.
Victoria Hoi An is set perfectly between the ocean and a lagoon. The peaceful waterfront energy flows through the whole establishment.
Traditional natural elements construct the architecture with native timber, local vegetation and a stream flowing through the property, from the lobby to the pool area.
The spa facilities are excellent. There is free access to a bath steam room, sauna, jacuzzi and gym. Pampering services are also available.
We stayed in a Junior Suite Ocean View. Our room was exquisite with the ocean at our doorstep. We could hear the waves rolling onto the rocks at night and enjoy an un-spoilt sunset from the comfort of our own private balcony. It was private, serene and so peaceful.
We were greeted by a special ice-cold drink of lemongrass, ginger and dragonfruit.
Our accommodation was so spacious – a large living space with a couch, large TV, beds and another room with a traditional tea setting. There was an outdoor shower contained within our premises and the bathroom was glorious – a large bathtub and separate vanity area. The toilet was separate.
The swimming pool was magnificent, ocean set and surrounded by palm trees. There was bar and poolside service so readily available and the margarita was delicious. I liked the intimacy of this hotel. I met new people from all over the world and my kids made new friends in the pool.
The hotel also had a private beach.
The buffet breakfast was lovely, with a wide array of cheeses, cured meats, fruits, pastries, cereals and hot Vietnamese and Western dishes.
A twice-daily free bus shuttle to Hoi An city centre was provided as well as private tours to local natural and historical attractions such as Marble Mountain and pagodas.
It provided bicycles free for guest use to peddle into the city centre and options to tour the countryside and locally-grown produce on a motorbike sidecar.
The hotel also offered recreational watersports opportunities including sailing, surfing, windsurfing, kayaking and boat excursions.
The staff was exceptional. I made the mistake of losing my credit card in the neighbouring city of Danang and fortunately, a lovely man found it and tracked me down to return it. The hotel staff liaised with him and a local driver, providing a much-appreciated translation conduit, taking care of arrangements to have it delivered to me.
CREATED BY KATE DURACK
