Our stay at The Nam Hai was short, but after having visited tombs and temples, pagodas bathed in the sunset light, cruised down a perfume river, discovered rural life on a bicycle and succumbed to the unique charms on Hoi An, The Nam Hai became the perfect host in luxury and pampering to our tired bodies and happy souls.
This place describes luxury. The Villas are a subtle fusion of harmony and indulgence with a beautiful interior design which just flows throughout, from the outdoor area at the front to the outdoor shower at the back. Slightly raised and the room’s main focus, is the bed, which sits majestically facing the outdoors with the deep marble bath that sits respectfully just behind it. Aware of its own desirability and complementing each other perfectly, they invite you to join their decadent existence knowing no mortal can resist their charm. (And I believe no one to date has).
It’s the little details and extras that keep giving this place the wow factor, like how the television and its endless supply of complimentary movies is positioned to be enjoyed from both the bed and bath, or how at night the room is lit by candles creating an irresistible ambiance.
I loved the his and hers wardrobes and sinks, finding them such a simple but clever way to keep harmony and peace between any couple, and the outdoor shower delighted equally each time.
On leaving the villa though, one realises the architecture outdoors is just as stunning. Sitting majestically in the middle of the two restaurants, like man made waterfalls, calm and serene, the three swimming pools cascade from reception to the beach, a long stretch of white sand that faces a jade colour sea of calm and tranquil waters which you are most likely to have all to yourself like we did when we immersed ourselves in its velvety beauty.
If dinner was good, with a great selection of local and international dishes given a twist of elegance to match the surroundings, and with wines that not only complement the food, but are of a quality so rarely found in Asia each sip becomes a subtle reminder of the calibre of the place it’s being served in, the breakfast was OUTSTANDING. Everything you could possibly desire cooked in any way imaginable enjoyed under the gentle shade of luxurious canopies. As we wait for our wishes to be served up, I ask myself what it is about The Nam Hai that feels different, what gives it the heart that makes it stand above so many others. And then I find the answer walking towards me, with a bright smile holding our Phô soup and Eggs Benedict. The staff here are always ready to wait on your every need (with a cooling towel, tea or juice) but they do so with friendliness and conversation beyond the call of duty.
Many of the guests that stay in hotels at this level of luxury, won’t explore outside its walls. Their only way of connecting with the country is through the hearts of the local people that work in them. If you wish you can find that here, unobtrusively, always respectfully.
There was no time left for us to visit the Spa, which I believe is just as magnificent as everything else here. So I guess this provides me with the perfect excuse to make a return.
Vietnam is a country to be seen, to be lived. You allow it to crawl under your skin and penetrate your heart. The Nam Hai is one of its jewels, like a polished diamond it will blind the privileged guests with its brilliance.
By Laura Morera – a Principal dancer with The Royal Ballet, who will be appearing in Asphodel Meadows from 19 November 2011.