Danang + Hoi An City Guide

Danang + Hoi An City Guide
With Beulah's Head of Design

In everything Beulah undertakes, we are defined by civic-minded responsibility, rigorous research, global vision, innovative thinking and a passion for design and culture. We frequently look to a range of industry and thought leaders to share their thinking, insights and perspectives, often drawn from lived experiences.

With a wealth of inspiration and rich storytelling at our fingertips, we share this with you by way of our Beulah City Guides Series, an exploration of cities around the world, through the eyes of compelling industry and thought leaders.

A highly motivated individual and Head of Design at Beulah, Rodelle strongly believes that impossibilities are an opportunity for innovation and finding a new solution.

With a Master in Architecture from the University of Melbourne, her strong eye for detail and background in multi-disciplinary design sees Rodelle bring a design focus that is set to take Beulah to the next level.

Bringing a golden touch and a wealth of global knowledge to the Beulah team — thanks to her extensive experience as a Registered Architect — Rodelle Lee collaborates closely with each architecture firm, as well the Beulah development and sales teams, acting as the gatekeeper for design decisions across all phases of our projects.

Setting high benchmarks to guarantee the best design outcomes, her dedication to ensuring alignment to the Beulah brand is unwavering in everything she does.

Rodelle’s city guide introduces us to the charming and historic cities of Vietnam: Hoi An and Da Nang. Join Rodelle as she explores her favourite biophilic architecture and shares her top tips for experiencing the best of both cities.

Hoi An | Image credit: Shutterstock

Thank you for taking part in our city guide series! You’ve chosen to share your experience and knowledge of this city with us – why did you choose it to explore with us?

Recently this year, I explored Hanoi, Halong Bay, Danang, and Hoi An in northern Vietnam. To my surprise, Danang and Hoi An exceeded my expectations. Their close proximity, just an hour apart, makes them ideal for day trips, with Danang serving as the nearest international entry point. In this guide, I’ll delve into Danang and Hoi An, focusing on the influence of biophilic design, architecture, wellness, and cultural richness.

Where did you stay? Any particular neighbourhood or hotel?

Hoi An’s allure lies in its UNESCO-listed Ancient Town, where time seems to stand still amid well-preserved architecture, lantern-lit streets, and a vibrant arts scene – a truly nostalgic atmosphere.

During my Hoi An visit, I stayed at the Four Seasons Nam Hai, where service was exceptional, and the architecture charming. The well-maintained, long-established beachfront villas offer an ideal setting for a private and tranquil getaway. The hotel also arranged local craft activities, like lantern and fan making, and cooking workshops, providing insights into local produce and techniques.

Four Seasons Spa Nam Hai | Image credit: Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

Four Seasons Nam Hai | Image credit: Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

CAN YOU SHARE WITH US YOUR FAVOURITE PICKS FOR EACH CATEGORY BELOW?

Wellness destination

The Four Seasons spa at Nam Hai was truly unforgettable. Their two-and-a-half-hour signature treatment is worth the journey itself. It’s not just about the treatment; the whole experience is extraordinary. The spa is secluded from the main villa and reception, offering a serene ambiance. Arriving at the main reception by buggy, you’ll see individual pavilions floating on a lotus lagoon. After confirming your treatment, you’ll be guided through lush landscaping to your waterside treatment villa. There, you can relax with herbal tea and a foot scrub before your session begins!

Places to eat

Banh Mi Sum
A standout street snack memory: Banh Mi Sum. This local favorite is celebrated for its affordability and delectable taste, offering a must-try Hoi An street snack – thick, hot, and crispy Banh mi with a variety of toppings. The best part? It’s less than AUD$2.

Morning Glory
“Dine at ‘Morning Glory’ in Old Town for traditional Hoi An and Vietnamese cuisine. For an eclectic experience, explore ‘Morning Glory Signature.’ Don’t forget to request a rooftop table for river views, lantern-lit boats, and lively waterfront nightlife while enjoying freshly grilled seafood.”

It’s not just about the treatment; the whole experience is extraordinary.

Morning Glory | Image credit: Morning Glory

Retail Destination

In Hoi An, custom tailoring is a standout feature. You can design garments from a wide fabric selection at incredibly affordable prices. The skilled tailors boast a swift 1-2 day turnaround time, delivering impeccable workmanship, whether it’s silk dresses, linen pants, or tailored suits!

Mulberry Silk Collection | Image credit: Hiroyuki Oki

Mulberry Silk Collection | Image credit: Mulberry Collection Silk Eco

Architecture

In these cities, I noticed a fantastic urban phenomenon: the integration of greenery within buildings. This innovative architectural approach not only enhances the urban environment but also helps mitigate extreme heat conditions. I’ve visited three remarkable examples, all designed by ‘VTN Architecture.’ They illustrate that great design considers both the macro level (civic-minded and urban landscape) and the micro-level well-being of inhabitants.

Naman Retreat – Danang
Naman Retreat is a charming modern boutique resort just 30 minutes from the city. It harmoniously fuses contemporary design with bamboo-inspired vernacular architecture, creating a serene atmosphere. And don’t miss the delightful spa with its hidden courtyard; it’s a treat in itself!

Chicland | Image Credit: Booking.com

Chicland | Image Credit: ArchDaily

Chicland Boutique Hotel – Danang
I was pleasantly surprised by an urban resort concept hotel with a lush green facade, exceeding my expectations compared to online images. This architectural gem utilises simple, traditional materials like bamboo, timber, and masonry, creating a marvelous site. The integration of greenery within the architecture has a remarkable impact, offering a cooler interior through a clever microclimate system designed by the architects.

Mulberry Silk Collection (Formerly Atlas Hotel)
Mulberry Silk Hotel, formerly Atlas Hotel, is situated near Hoi An’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site impacted by rapid commercialization and tourism. The hotel’s design aims to restore a peaceful atmosphere by integrating locally-sourced sandstone, exposed concrete, and corridor planters for solar shading and improved air circulation. Perforated stone walls allow in daylight without hindering airflow, encouraging natural ventilation and reducing the need for air conditioning.

Finally, do you have any tips, tricks or advice when travelling to this city?

Extend your stay to immerse in non-touristy spots, explore local street food for diverse, less mainstream Vietnamese cuisine, noting that each region has its specialised and unique dishes. Vietnam primarily uses cash, so keeping small notes handy is useful in this tipping-friendly culture!