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Beaches in Vietnam: Where and When to Go, Top 5 Wellness Destinations in Southeast Asia, Spiritual Morning with a Balinese Priest - A&K Southeast Asia Insider
For Insider by A&K Southeast Asia May 2023 edition, we are delighted to have you on board as we uncover the stunning coastal destinations of Vietnam and share the best time to visit each beach. We also invite you to enter a world of serenity with our Top 5 Wellness Destinations in Southeast Asia and take on an enlightening exploration of Chiang Mai’s Wildflower Home while bringing your creativity to life in a tie-dye workshop with the residents. Lastly, meet our local Balinese Insider who shares his life as a Brahman priest.
Beaches in Vietnam (From North to South): Where and When to Go
Discover the best beaches that adorn Vietnam's coastline and demystify the perfect time to visit each one for an unforgettable experience. From the bustling shores of Nha Trang to the tranquil sands of Phu Quoc, Vietnam offers a wide array of beach destinations to suit every traveler's taste. Join us as we dive into the captivating world of Vietnam's beaches, uncovering hidden gems and the ideal seasons to soak up the sun, dip your toes in the crystal waters and bask in the coastal splendor that this Southeast Asian paradise has to offer.
Da Nang | Hoi An | Lang Co
Da Nang – Vietnam's third largest city is home to some of the country's best beaches — from local hotspots to more secluded stretches of sand, it has something for everyone.
Hoi An – For one of the country’s picturesque UNESCO World Heritage sights, it’s always a great idea to visit Hoi An’s secluded Ha My Beach and nearby Phuoc Hai fishing town.
Lang Co Beach – Known for having one of the most beautiful natural coastal landscapes in Vietnam. It is situated about 25 kilometers (15.53 miles) north of Da Nang and 60 kilometers (37.28 miles) south of Hue, making it the perfect stopover if you are traveling between these two cities.
How to access: Via Da Nang International Airport
Best time to visit: February–August
Our favorite resorts: Intercontinental Da Nang | Four Seasons Nam Hai Hoi An | Banyan Tree Lang Co
Quy Nhon | Phu Yen
Quy Nhon Beach – The central coast of Vietnam is blessed with many beaches, but Quy Nhon Beach is one of the best. This coastal city sees fewer tourists than some of the other central regions, so the beach is a bit quieter but has all the tropical scenery and white sand.
Phu Yen – Phu Yen means “Rich Peace” and is part of Vietnam’s off-the-beaten-path beach scene, making its name descriptive of the still, slow parts of the beach region.
How to access: Via Phu Cat Airport in Quy Nhon, daily domestic flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City
Best time to visit: January–August
Nha Trang | Ninh Van Bay | Cam Ranh Bay | Vinh Hy Bay
Nha Trang – Boasts some of the world's most beautiful beaches and gets more than 300 days of sunshine per year, the most out of the whole country. Some monsoons hit between September and December, but in general, Nha Trang has the shortest rainy season in Vietnam.
Ninh Van Bay – There's no road access to the region, but Ninh Van Bay is a perfect getaway with its exquisite sandy coves you can reach by luxury speedboat.
Cam Ranh Bay – Located just 45 kilometers (27.96 miles) away from Nha Trang, its stunning white-sand beaches and serene atmosphere makes it one of the most beautiful bays in Vietnam.
Vinh Hy Bay – Gifted with pleasant and sunny weather all year round, it features calm waters and jungle wilderness making it a natural harbor for various species as well as a peaceful location for upscale resorts.
How to access: Via Cam Ranh International Airport
Best time to visit: November–May
Our favorite resorts: Six Senses Ninh Van Bay | The Anam Cam Ranh | Amanoi
Mui Ne | Ke Ga Bay
Mui Ne – Renowned for its coastline as well as several other natural wonders. It is differentiated by a majestic, nearby expanse of desert known as the White Sand Dunes and Red Sand Dunes, which are popular for sand-surfing and even hot-air balloon rides. The best-known beach portion of the Mui Ne area, however, is actually located a short 15-minute trip away in the Ham Tien ward, which is also home to the surreal Suoi Tien, or "Fairy Stream," known for its hardened sand embankments and waterfall.
Ke Ga Bay – Located approximately 180 kilometers (111.85 miles) east of HCMC, it is framed to the east by Hon Ba Island and to the west by soaring sand dunes providing a tranquil setting that is ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation.
How to access: Two-and-a-half-hour drive from HCMC via the new highway
Best time to visit: December to April
Our favorite resorts: The Anam Mui Ne | Anantara Mui Ne | Azerai Ke Ga Bay
Phu Quoc
It boasts some of Vietnam’s best beaches and promises balmy weather all year round. Most notable of these is Khem Beach (or "Cream Beach").
How to access: Via Phu Quoc International Airport
Best time to visit: October–June
Our favorite resorts: JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa | Fusion Phu Quoc | Intercontinental Phu Quoc
Con Dao
Known for its coral reefs, diverse marine life and soft sandy beaches. The beach experience in Con Dao is idyllic, mostly due to its quieter presence than other popular beaches in Vietnam. One of the most popular things to do at this beach is to watch the green sea turtles at the nearby turtle sanctuary.
How to access: Via Con Dao Airport, daily domestic flights from Hanoi and HCMC
Best time to visit: December–April
Our favorite resorts: Six Senses Con Dao (Dat Doc beach) | Poulo Condor (Dong East beach)
Contact us to find out how to include these special places or explore more Vietnam travel ideas for your next A&K journey.
Chiang Mai’s Wildflower Home Foundation & AKP: Interweaving Arts and Sustainability with Philanthropy
When in Chiang Mai, take advantage of the opportunity to experience the local arts and craft scene and meet the artisans who help preserve the nation’s timeless traditions. Stop by for a visit at Wildflower Home, a foundation providing a safe space for women and children in difficult situations, and guiding its residents toward a life of independence and self-sufficiency.
Within Wildflower Home is also Chiang Mai Mushroom House and Organic Farm, a mushroom-growing house backed by A&K Philanthropy (AKP). Inspired by Wildflower Home’s desire to be self-sufficient, AKP funded the construction of the mushroom house to help provide the women, children and staff with healthy food as well as a sustainable source of income from the mushroom sales. During your visit, get the chance to meet the residents and Sister Anurak, a Catholic nun who runs the home, and learn more about the AKP-funded mushroom house. As you explore the two-and-a-half-acre compound further, you can admire the countryside scenery, fishpond and farm animals while your guide explains about the inspiring work the home has done to improve the lives of its residents.
One of the highlights of this tour is a tie-dye workshop with the residents. This hands-on experience enables you to unleash your artistic expression by twisting fabric and dipping them into buckets of dye to create unique patterns and designs. Aside from being fun and interactive, you will also witness your creativity come to life in the form of wearable art and get to keep your masterpiece.
After this activity, discover traditional paper-making crafts in San Kamphaeng district where artisans create colorful umbrellas and fans using paper and bamboo. Continue to MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum to view a collection of works by national and regional artists and watch skilled Lanna craftsmen carve images of elephants from wood at Ban Chang Nak, or the “House of Many Elephants.” Lastly, enjoy a hearty lunch at Huen Jai Yong, a traditional Thai wooden house that serves classic northern Thai dishes.
A&K Insider Tip: Join this tour to visit Wildflower Home and collect your tie-dye creations before going back to the hotel. To get involved or learn more about AKP’s long-term commitment to this project and other philanthropic projects around the world, please visit akphilanthropy.org.
Spiritual Morning with a Balinese Priest: A Chat with Our A&K Insider
Born and raised in the “Island of the Gods,” Ida Bagus Dharma is a Brahman priest from the highest caste of Balinese society. The revered priest is also skilled at the ancient art of Keliki painting and his inspirational artworks can be viewed at his home. We chatted with this Bali-based A&K Insider to learn about his experience as a religious leader as well as his perspective on spirituality, Balinese traditions and artistic heritage.
Q: Can you describe a regular day as a spiritual healer in your community?
A: As a Brahman priest living in a village, my daily activities are much like those of other villagers. However, there is an important distinction that sets me apart—I am not allowed to leave my village for the night. This is because my role requires me to be available to support local people in their ceremonies, healings, and other important events. Being a Brahman priest is a responsibility that I take seriously, and it is an honor to be able to serve my community in this way. My daily routine involves performing religious rituals, offering blessings, and providing guidance to those who seek it. I also play an important role in the production of crops, which are used in various ceremonies and rituals throughout the year. While my duties may limit my ability to travel, I am proud to be a part of a tradition that has been passed down through generations. My work is essential to the well-being of my community, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve in this capacity.
Q: Why did you decide to become a spiritual healer?
A: As someone born into a Brahman family, I did not have a choice but to inherit certain ways of living and learning from my parents. This is a common practice in our culture, where we believe in the art of learning by doing. This approach to education involves immersing oneself in everyday experiences, whether it be through observation, listening, or participating in activities. By consistently engaging with the world around us, we become accustomed to certain ways of thinking and behaving, and these practices become second nature to us.
Q: How have you been trained to be a spiritual healer?
A: Long before the development of alphabets and formal education, people believed that the creation of art was a divine gift bestowed upon humans by God. The act of creating art was seen as a way for individuals to connect with the divine, bringing them closer to God. When children begin to learn about art, particularly painting, they often ask what makes it easier for them to understand. In response, we can explain that throughout history, art has been considered a means of spiritual expression, allowing humans to explore and connect with their beliefs and values in a meaningful way. Through the act of creating art, individuals can tap into their creativity and imagination, and in doing so, come closer to the divine.
Q: Can you describe the ancient art of Keliki painting?
A: In the past, before the advent of formal schools, our culture used the Keliki style to teach children about our traditions and religious practices. This style of teaching involves the use of art to convey important cultural and spiritual concepts. Today, we are fortunate to have the opportunity to share our culture with people like you who are interested in purchasing our art. By doing so, you are not only supporting our local economy and creating job opportunities, but you are also helping to ensure that our traditions and customs remain alive and well.
Visit the home of our A&K Bali Insider in the heart of Bali’s rice-paddy-filled villages, experience the Balinese purification ritual, “Melukat” and more exciting activities.
Our Top 5 Wellness Destinations in Southeast Asia
Wellness programs are the perfect solution to detoxify your mind and body from modern-day pathogens. And what better place for a transformative escape than in Southeast Asia, a region filled with a rich history and devotion to well-being. From the spiritual sanctuaries of Ubud to the tranquil coasts of Koh Samui, experience ancient healing traditions that intertwine with modern health practices. Join us in uncovering Southeast Asia’s top 5 wellness destinations and embark on a holistic journey toward the seamless convergence of the mind, body and spirit.
1. Return to Your True Self in All-Natural Surroundings (RAKxa, Bangkok, Thailand)
Nestled in Bang Krachao, also known as the “Green Lung of Bangkok,” RAKxA teleports you to another world where you can restore your mental, physical and spiritual health. Your path to wellness begins with a convenient one-hour trip from both Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports to a peacefully isolated yet accessible island across the Chao Phraya River. In this natural oasis, you’ll be immersed in a serene environment, surrounded by lush nature and calming lake views. RAKxa’s approach to healing is tailored to meet each guest’s unique needs. By treating the body as a whole and addressing the root cause of your discomforts, RAKxa offers a wellness experience that will enable you to recover and create long-lasting change.
2. Immerse in A Wellness Retreat | Kamalaya, Koh Samui, Thailand
Located in a tropical landscape on the southern coastline of Koh Samui, Thailand, Kamalaya is the ideal place to reconnect with your inner self and invigorate your mind, body and spirit. They provide holistic health solutions by combining ancient Eastern healing traditions with Western medical research to achieve life-enhancing results. Kamalaya believes that all aspects of health are intertwined, and this wellness philosophy will facilitate your healing from the inside out. With a flexible treatment schedule and the expertise of their Life Enhancement Mentors, you are able to optimize your physical health and mental clarity in no time.
3. Escape to Bali’s Forested Heart | COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali, Indonesia
COMO Shambhala Estate is a magical destination set in the forest between two mighty rivers near Ubud, Bali. Inspired by nature, their multi-suite residences and villas create a sense of home while immersing in Indonesia’s rich wildlife and colorful culture. Wellness is at the heart of this award-winning resort, offering customized outdoor experiences such as immersive hikes and curated cultural tours designed to feed the body, mind and soul.
4. Experience Self-Recovery in a Hidden Sanctuary | Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, Vietnam
Overlooking a scenic bay with breath-taking rock formations, powdery white beach, and towering mountains, Six Senses Ninh Van Bay is a sanctuary in the hilltops. This natural haven is on a peninsula just a short speedboat ride from the mainland of Nha Trang and features magnificent beachfront and overwater villas, as well as villas nestled into the rock formations. They offer a layered approach to wellness through traditional Vietnamese therapies, local body treatments, rejuvenating treks, meditative yoga sessions, a jungle gym circuit and other holistic programs. Say hello to a new you with their professional therapists guiding you towards achieving your wellness goals.
5. Achieve Holistic Transformation in a Serene Setting | Amanoi, Vietnam
Reunite with nature while regaining your mind and body’s balance in the paradise sanctuary that is Amanoi. Featuring picturesque views of Vinh Hy Bay, a diverse ecosystem and a stretch of private beach, Amanoi’s Aman Spa offers you the perfect place and much-needed time out to achieve the inner peace you deserve. The resort's villas offer spacious living areas, comprehensive spa facilities and carefully planned wellness programs to help you renew focus and promote overall well-being for a longer, healthier life.
Click the links below for more A&K Southeast Asia travel ideas or contact us for personalized wellness recommendations in Southeast Asia.
Regional News
• WHO declares end of COVID-19 as a global health emergency
• Phnom Penh hosts the Southeast Asian Games in May 2023, the equivalent of the Olympic games in Southeast Asia
• The new Dau Giay-Phan Thiet motorway opens in April 2023, reducing the travel time between HCMC and the white sand beaches of Mui Ne by three hours
• Mandarin Oriental Singapore undergoes a multimillion-dollar renovation in March 2023, slated to re-open in early September 2023
• Luxury hotel La Siesta Premium Saigon opens in April 2023 and La Siesta Classic Hang Thung scheduled to launch in the middle of July 2023
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A&K Southeast Asia Insider In this issue, we showcase one of our favorite honeymoon destinations—Bali, Indonesia, and share tips for the ultimate 48 hours in Luang Prabang, Laos. We also reveal our Top 5 Biking Trails in Southeast Asia and chat with an A&K Insider who shares insights about where to find the best northern Thai crafts. |
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