Being long and slim means Vietnam’s climate varies hugely from north to south with two different monsoon seasons, but Australian winter is the perfect time to visit the resort hub of central Vietnam around Danang (farther south is where the humidity really kicks in). You might encounter the odd burst of rain but this strip of coast is protected from most bad weather by the central highlands. If venturing down south to the Con Dao archipelago, May to October sees turtles nest on the beach around the island, while the water is at its clearest in July.
There are direct flights from Sydney and Melbourne to Ho Chi Minh City and flight time is around nine hours. Return economy fares start from A$1,278 and business class fares from A$2,872.
Best for ultra luxury
Amano’i
Aman Resorts’ first foray into Vietnam, Amano’i is perched above the pristine Vinh Hy Bay in central Vietnam. The 31 pavilions look out over the ocean, the surrounding national park or the lotus-filled lake surrounding the spa, and many have private swimming pools. There are also five huge Aman Villas with four or five bedrooms, full kitchen, living and dining pavilions, large pool and staff. Head down to the beach club for a swim in the ocean or in the resort’s second swimming pool right at the water’s edge.
Rates
Pavilions are priced from US$900 (about A$971) per night and villas from US$4,500 (about A$4,854) per night plus taxes. amanresorts.com
Best for families
Six Senses Con Dao
This is the only luxury resort on southern Vietnam’s undeveloped Con Dao archipelago. It’s purported to be a favourite holiday spot of Angelina Jolie who brought her family to relax in the spacious, breezy pool villas that sit right on a powdery white beach. There is a huge range of activities for kids from water sports to craft workshops, visits to local schools, cooking classes, camp outs and open air movie nights. Look out for the antique carved doors on the buildings – 1,200 were carefully sourced from around the country during the design phase.
Rates
Villas are priced from US$670 (about A$723) per night plus taxes. sixsenses.com
Best for couples
Evason Ana Mandara
The Evason is the only absolute beachfront resort in the popular resort strip of Nha Trang, with 74 garden villas just steps from the ocean. Families are welcome at the resort, but the canopied four-poster beds, outdoor Jacuzzis and private leafy terraces are made for romance. Take a 30-minute boat ride to a private beach on Dam Tree Island for a chef-prepared barbecue on the white sand. There’s also a plush Six Senses spa on-site for some serious relaxation.
Rates
Rooms are priced from U$285 (about A$307) per night and suites from US$540 (about A$583) per night plus taxes. sixsenses.com