David Bowden is the author of Enchanting Langkawi published by John Beaufoy of the UK (www.johnbeaufoy.com) and sold in Singapore and Langkawi.
Where?
Danang, Vietnam
First Impressions
Danang is a city on the move and rapidly becoming a hub for tourism. It’s a riverside city with nearby beaches and the historic remains of the Kingdom of Champa. There are Cham ruins around the city and the Cham Museum in the city centre.
What’s Special?
Beaches, culture, enticing food, golf courses, shopping at Hon Market and a lively night scene attract tourists to what is still seen as a frontier destination in Central Vietnam. Head north to Laguna Lang Co, Vietnam’s first integrated resort on a private bay along a stretch of sand that will make you think you've discovered paradise. Stay here at the Banyan Tree or Angsana. Train buffs can also head north on the train that hugs the seaside cliffs around the Hai Van Pass to the imperial city of Hué. Travel south to Hoi An to explore this ancient riverside port and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its pedestrian-only historic streets are crammed with unique architecture and beaches are not far away.
Who Should Go?
For many, Vietnam is a pioneer destination but the infrastructure is rapidly developing. Those who love resort living will head to Laguna Lang Co or China Beach while adventurers can cover the whole of Central Vietnam by train.
Getting There
SilkAir flies daily from Singapore to Danang.
Where to Stay
Danang is undergoing a tourism explosion. The Grand Mercure Danang is perfectly located for those who want to explore the city. Its features 276 rooms, a 25m pool and the soothing Karma Spa. For resort-styled accommodation, the 187-room Pullman Danang Beach Resort is situated along historic China Beach. The Mercure Hoi An Royal recently opened.
Where to Dine
Danang cuisine is up there with the spiciest in the nation but a staple is noodle soup or pho. Savour the 40 dim sum dishes at the Mercure's Golden Dragon, dine in Mango Mango (Hoi An) and Epice (Pullman Danang Beach Resort). Danang’s coolest cocktails are served at Moon River Lounge(overlooking the river).
Tips
Singaporeans don't need a visa to visit Vietnam but citizens from most other nations do and these can be completed via the Internet before travel or at a Vietnamese Embassy. Internet visas are issued upon arrival but there can be queues. Most rain falls from November to January.
Get Connected
www.vietnamonline.com, www.vietnam-guide.com/da-nang and www.danangairportonline.com
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