One of Vietnam’s most atmospheric and charming towns, Hoi An – also known as the ‘City of Lanterns’ is simply like nowhere else on earth. Along this lazy river and in amongst the historic alleyways of its traffic-free setting you’ll find world heritage sites, grand architecture, boutique shops and bustling markets that combine into an utterly beguiling experience.
If you’re planning on a trip to explore this unique place, the Anantara Hoi An resort is the perfect complement to Hoi An’s diverse vibe – boasting delectable cuisine overseen by a local chef and free bike hire for guests to explore under their own steam.
The Location
The resort lies on the banks of the Thu Bon River, where you can see rowing boats trundle up and down the water. It is just a ten-minute walk or short cycle to the colourful architecture and lantern-filled streets of Hoi An’s historic ancient town, but far enough away that you don’t feel overwhelmed by the bustle of tourists in the centre. If you want to enjoy a day near the ocean, there is a courtesy bus or taxi service everyday to tranquil, tree-lined An Bang Beach, which boasts white sand, palapas to snooze under and is virtually people-free most days. The transfer time from Danang airport is just 40 minutes.
At the Resort
Expect a wonderful blend of Japanese, Chinese and French influences, since the style of the resort reflects the rich diversity of UNESCO-listed Hoi An. The main building has a pastel-coloured façade, wrap-around veranda and elegant arches, while frangipani-scented tropical gardens dotted with lily ponds add to the serenity of its waterside setting.
At the resort spa, you can enjoy a variety of blissful local healing treatments, from a soothing four-hand massage to a green tea and salt body scrub or a traditional Vietnamese herbal bath. Couples can even have a romantic soak in a milky bath for two before succumbing to side-by-side massages.
My friend and I thoroughly enjoyed a sunset cruise which takes you up and down the Thu Bon River as you enjoy cool drinks and fresh canapes – it’s a much more relaxed experience than going on one of the lantern-lit tourist boats frequently offered to you in the old town. If you have time during your stay, the resort offers bespoke cooking classes where you can learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes, learning the nuances of its complex flavours and how to combine them, and you can also try your hand at traditional lantern making. Complimentary bicycles are on hand to explore your beautiful surroundings on two wheels.
The Suites
We stayed in a deluxe River View Suite – located on the ground floor and fronting the tranquil river. Inside you can expect an indoor living area and bedroom on a mezzanine floor, as well as our personal favourite, a lovely outdoor terrace with daybeds where you can soak in the views or unwind with a good book. A spacious bathroom invites long soaks in the tub with luxurious bath products. Being so close to the Thu Bon river immerses you fully in Hoi An’s atmosphere, but guests who are light sleepers might want to opt for the more tranquil garden rooms set away from the river, in case the engines of rower boats keep them up.
Eating and Drinking
Anatara always excels at food, and the resort in Hoi An is no exception. Breakfast is served at Lanterns, set on the first floor of a colonial style building, where you can indulge in fresh eggs cooked any way you like, omelettes, pancakes, waffles, bacon, sausages, fresh juices and smoothies as well as Vietnamese breakfast dishes. At the pool area you can grab snacks like fresh summer rolls, satay skewers or beef salad and wash them down with mocktails or cocktails or dine out on the Vietnamese style afternoon tea in an outdoor pavilion in the lush grounds.
For a sit down dinner Hoi An Riverside is where you can cool off from the heat and enjoy an à la carte menu with the best of Vietnamese cuisine, seafood and steaks, fine wines. We loved watching the world go by from the vibrant streetside terrace of art space — an artsy collaboration between Anantara Hoi An Resort, the March Gallery and Precious Heritage by Rehahn Museum where you can hang out with artists and musicians, drink craft beers and eat wood-fired pizza and even 3D-printed desserts. Don’t miss its signature Pho Cocktail made with Cointreau, star anise, cinnamon, black cardamom, coriander, lime juice and sugar syrup, which mimics the flavour of the famous Vietnamese soup.
Rooms start from US $250 + tax per room, per night including daily buffet breakfast. Find out more about Anantara Hoi An.
Hannah Hopkins is a commissioning editor and freelance writer, covering hotels, destinations and restaurants for AGLAIA.
