CHECKING OUT HOTELS / RESORTS / TRAIN JOURNEYS / AIRPORTS REVIEW STAY: MIA RESORT – NAH TRANG, VIETNAM
BY STEVEN THOMPSON THE BACKGROUND: Nestled in a quiet bay the Mia Resort is a haven of tran- quillity for couples and families on the slopes of the Nha Trang Mountains, sheltered by jungle and with its own private beach. The resort is for those who demand nothing but the very best. With only 50 villas (some with private pools) set among manicured gardens, it is perfect for relaxation and comfort, designed on eco-friendly principles. THE LOCATION: Boutique-style Mia is around 30 minutes from Nha Trang City, one of the premier resorts on Vietnam's central coast with lots of bars and restaurants (a decent rice- based dinner for two with starters and a couple of beers can be as little as £10). Nha Trang contrasts with the tra- ditional resort of Hoi An up the coast. THE ROOM: I stayed in one of the generously proportioned garden villas with great views over the gardens, pool, beach and the sea in the distance. The designs were modern and spa-
STAY: THE VERDICT
cious, with lots of natural light and large patio doors to the front. Free fast Wi-Fi, on-demand TV, outdoor showers alongside a large, well-appointed bath- room were highlights. KEY FACILITIES: With an infi nity pool backing on to the beach, it’s easy to fl ick between beach and pool. The Xanh Spa has a range of treat- ments and procedures, a steam room, a fully-equipped gym offering views over the bay and complimentary yoga classes. Also on site is a free-of-charge kids'
club and restaurant chefs are on hand to teach clients how to make popular Vietnamese dishes. RESTAURANTS/BARS: Sandals, by the beach, is the main restaurant while on the upper level of the resort there is the Mojito's bar and lounge, with fantastic views over the Cam Lam Bay. RATES: From just over £100 per night including breakfast Mia Resort, Bai Dong, Cam Hai Dong, Cam Lam, Khanh Hoa, Vietnam T: +84 583 989 666 W:
mianhatrang.com
THE GEORGE HOTEL – CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND
BY ALAN ORBELL THE BACKGROUND: Christchurch’s best hotel offers 53 rooms across fi ve categories. The fi ve-star boutique luxury hotel is a member of Small Luxury Hotels with a cabinet full of awards including' Australasia’s Leading Boutique Hotel’ 2010. The George has a one-to-one guest/staff ratio and a commitment to ‘caring luxury’. THE LOCATION: The George has panoramic views over Hagley Park and the meandering River Avon just a
short walk to the heart of the Garden City and just 20 minutes to the airport. THE ROOM: First impressions had the Premium Executive room welcoming, bright and spacious with good river views through the picture windows. Second impressions added comfort and style. The large bed was complemented with armchairs, an occasional table, table lamps and a good work desk with media hub including a three-pin socket for UK plugs and A/V connection (computer points are also by the bed) to the wide-screen TV, The large fully-tiled bathroom included underfl oor heating. KEY FACILITIES: Free high speed wi-fi throughout and public-use computers in the lobby. Complimentary access to the nearby Mint Health and Fitness, plus in-house spa treatments and complimentary mountain bike. RESTAURANTS/BARS: The upscale Pescatore was a Cuisine
THE VERDICT
NZ Restaurant of the Year Finalist 2012, offering seasonal menus and a wine list said by Wine Spectator magazine to be one of the world's most outstanding. Equally attractive is 50 Bistro, open all day on the ground fl oor beyond the bar with its comfortable, stylish leather couches. RATES: From NZ$408 (approx. £219) The George, 50 Park Terrace, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand T: +64 3 379 4560 W:
thegeorge.com
A great Christchurch base for leisure or business and, as an aside, there is now every reason to sell the city as part of a New Zealand itinerary to see the Garden City re-invent itself post-earthquake. The George has a friendly, welcoming yet efficient ambience throughout with staff hand-picked to ensure those attributes endure. Strongly recommended.
The property is exceptional on all counts, but still very affordable. It has a great mix of Vietnamese hospitality with western standards. Plus there's the fact that the property is set on a private beach, 30 minutes away from Nha Trang; it's near but far enough away! South East Asia is known for its friendliness, however staff at the Mia Resort go well beyond what I have
experienced.before.
EXCEPTIONAL LOVED IT! PASS FARCE
WHERE TO...
EXCEPTIONAL LOVED IT! PASS FARCE
www.sellinglonghaul.com
June 2013 43
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