Next stop: Southeast Asia. You don’t need to travel far to discover the region’s rising wave of destinations, from Vietnam’s emerging cultural capital to a cinematic Thai island reborn in the spotlight. In our May ‘Sonder’ issue of Vogue Singapore, discover six must-visit escapes in our part of the world, where history, craft and natural splendour converge in unforgettable style.
Vietnam has grown to become a favourite getaway destination amongst Singaporeans. Ho Chi Minh City‘s thriving fashion scene is undeniably one of the most exciting in the region, Hanoi’s storied history is evident in its centuries-old architecture, and across the country, its scrumptious street food is well-loved by all. But between the two popular cities is a rising destination where Vietnam’s arts and cultural scene comes alive.
Framed by lush nature and gorgeous beaches, Da Nang offers the best of both worlds. You’ll get to dive deep into the country’s craft, heritage and culture through the city’s fascinating museums and historical sites—whilst also enjoying an idyllic beachside escape with picturesque views and quaint coffee shops. Below, find a curated list of recommendations for where to go, eat and stay in Da Nang to experience the best of its vibrant spirit.
1 / 12
Museum of Cham Sculpture
One of the oldest museums in the country, the Museum of Cham Sculpture houses the world’s biggest and most well-preserved collection of art from the ancient Champa kingdom. Originally Austronesian sailors, the Cham were an Indianised Hindu civilisation from the fourth to 13th centuries, situated in what is now central Vietnam. Intricate sandstone sculptures primarily depict the folklore and religion of Indian civilisation, including Hindu and Buddhist deities.
2 / 12
Da Nang Fine Arts Museum
Housing a wide collection of work from artists from central Vietnam, this three-storey institution is the first art museum in Da Nang. A broad range of styles and mediums are on display—from oil painting and sculpture to lacquer and silk—a reflection of Vietnam’s culture and history through its art.
3 / 12
Iconic bridges
Chances are, you’ve already come across Da Nang’s iconic bridges on your social media feed. They are, after all, the city’s most recognisable landmarks. Ride the world’s longest single-rope cable car up Ba Na Hills to take in the view from the famous Golden Bridge. The 150m-long bridge is held up by giant stone hands and is 1,414m above sea level. Also pick a weekend evening to take a stroll along the Han River to see the 666m-long Dragon Bridge, which spews fire and water in a spectacular show that happens on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, as well as on major holidays, at 9pm.
4 / 12
My Son Sanctuary
An hour’s drive from Da Nang sits the ruins of My Son, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is often referred to as Vietnam’s Angkor Wat. This complex of ancient Hindu temples was once the spiritual and political capital of the Champa kingdom, which flourished in south-central Vietnam from the fourth to 13th centuries. Only about 20 out of the 70 buildings remain intact, but their carvings and architecture offer a glimpse into one of the most significant empires in Southeast Asia.
5 / 12
My Khe Beach
A long strip of golden sand against blue waters and picturesque views, My Khe is known for being one of the most beautiful beaches in Asia. Take part in the various water activities offered along its shores, from jet skiing to parasailing, or simply recline on a beach chair and relax. Head there at dawn for a gorgeous view of the rising sun.
6 / 12
Nen
It’s all about spotlighting local ingredients at contemporary Vietnamese fine-dining restaurant Nen. Sourced from Nen farms and across the country, fresh ingredients of the highest quality are made use of in creative ways and gorgeously showcased. The restaurant’s seasonal Sto:ry Menu #0 – Journey tells the story of Vietnam through its land—the natural offerings it brings and the people who cultivate it.
7 / 12
Thia Go
Hidden quietly in a backstreet away from the bustle of the city is Thia Go, a charming eatery where you’ll find a variety of authentic, homely local dishes. The pho here is some of the best in the city, as is the delicious banh xeo—crisp and stuffed with a generous filling, and well worth the long wait. Vegetarian and Muslim-friendly options are also available.
8 / 12
Nu Do Kitchen
The quintessential dish in central Vietnam is undoubtedly mi quang—or turmeric rice noodles in a savoury stock, served with fresh herbs and a crunchy rice cracker. At Nu Do, MasterChef Vietnam 2015 runner-up Tuyet Pham serves four versions of the local favourite, each with a different, aromatic broth to bring out the key ingredient. Try the Fish Noodle, complemented by the zing of fresh turmeric and the spiciness of chillies.
9 / 12
Coffee checklist
As the second-largest coffee producer in the world, Vietnam’s coffee culture is vibrant and thriving. Local speciality coffees to try include egg coffee, peanut coffee and coconut coffee. As for the best spots in the city for a solid pour? There’s XLIII Specialty Coffee, Nam House Cafe or Lighthouse Coffee Roaster, Brewman Coffee Concept, Wonderlust and Noi Cafe.
10 / 12
Hilton Da Nang
For a stay in the heart of the city, Hilton Da Nang overlooks the Han River and its iconic Dragon Bridge. Expect spacious suites, impeccable service and a spectacular breakfast spread. Best of all, its prime location means that you’re steps away from the city’s beaches, markets and nightlife.
11 / 12
InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort
You’ll get the best of both worlds at this world-class resort. Situated in the Son Tra Peninsula, InterContinental Danang is seaside luxury at its finest, surrounded by lush greenery. Complimentary shuttles to the city centre mean that you’ll still be able to explore Da Nang while also escaping the rush of the city.
12 / 12
Day trip to Hoi An
A short drive from Da Nang is Hoi An, a quaint, ancient town recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Get a traditional ao dai tailor-made at B’lan Silk, and sample the town’s best known delicacies—Cao Lau noodles, Hoi An chicken rice and white rose dumplings. There’s also the traditional Thanh Ha Pottery Village where you can experience pottery making, as well as the Cam Thanh Coconut Village where you can take a basket boat ride or try your hand at preparing your own meal with a Vietnamese cooking lesson. Stay till dark to watch a game of Bai Choi along the riverside or take a boat ride to appreciate the coloured paper lanterns that Hoi An is known for.
