Evason Ana Mandara Nha Trang

It's clear as soon as guests drive up to the resort that it offers a level of tranquility that's not matched by many other properties in Nha Trang -- this is bolstered by the fact that the Evason is the only proper beachfront property within the city. Lush gardens begin just inside the gate and continue throughout the property, providing shade and beauty. The open-air lobby is lovely and conducive to gatherings, with dark wood cushioned chairs and tables under a high ceiling. Adjacent water features provide homes for koi, and birds are usually singing. Wide hallways display Vietnamese art on the walls, and the interiors throughout blend sleek contemporary lines with traditional elementss. The setting is classy and luxurious, suitable for all types of travelers looking for a resort getaway, including couples, families, and groups of friends, though couples make up the bulk of guests here. 

This hotel is located on the beach off Tran Phu Boulevard at the edge of Nha Trang city. It is a short ride or long walk to get into the city from the hotel -- five minutes by car, or 15 minutes by foot. The Po Nagar Cham Towers, an eighth-century monument, are a five-minute ride into the city (or around 20 minutes on foot) and for those needing a more modern version of fun, the Vinpearl Amusement Park, accessible by a cable car across the sea, will take about 30 minutes to reach. The park has plenty of water rides and a food court. Many guests, however, choose to never leave the property during their stay, as it's a self-contained oasis. Cam Ranh International Airport is a 40-minute drive away.

Located in 17 villas nestled throughout the hotel's tropical grounds, rooms are tastefully done with a combination of contemporary luxuries and traditional Vietnamese design. Local hardwood furniture in dark tones is set about tile or hardwood floors, and all rooms have high ceilings, though Deluxe Beachfront or Sea View Rooms have gorgeous features like woven bamboo ceiling panels or exposed wood beams, lending them a chic level of authenticity. The color palette throughout is mostly white, with pops of orange, yellow, and green throughout along with Vietnamese scrolls for accent. Mosquito netting tops canopy beds. All rooms come with air-conditioning and ceiling fans, safes, flat-screen TVs with international channels, DVD players, free Wi-Fi, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and minibars. Bathrooms are large and modern with above-counter sinks and separate showers and tubs. Some rooms have outdoor showers and tubs, and all have nicely furnished terraces. Views are of the gardens or beach, and some rooms are directly on the beach. While the resort is a tranquil spot, rooms closer to the road may pick up a bit of street noise. 

Guests can start their day with an expansive -- and delicious -- international breakfast buffet at the Pavilion, the main restaurant that also serves dinner. Seating is indoors, on the veranda, or on the beach. Seafood and Mediterranean fare are on the menu at Ana Beach House, a casual open-air spot by the pool and beach. The two pools are lovely, especially the infinity pool that looks out onto the beach. Daybeds and cushioned lounge chairs with umbrellas encourage relaxing poolside. The Six Senses Spa offers traditional Vietnamese treatments in a gorgeous open-air tropical garden setting by the beach. The fitness center has modern equipment, and large windows provide natural light. There's also a tennis court, and water sports are available on the beach, which is clean and well-maintained. The kids' club keeps the little ones entertained with a variety of supervised activities. A well-appointed business center has computers, books, a TV, and meeting spaces for guests, while on-site shops sell spa products, clothing, and jewelry. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel and private airport transfers can be arranged. The hotel employs a variety of eco-friendly and sustainable policies, from participating in composting programs using kitchen food waste, to working to improve locals' quality of life.