The Anam in Cam Ranh is the archetype for 5-star resorts in Vietnam that personifies luxury and serenity in an inspirational setting on white sandy beaches, writes Leo Johnson

Cam Ranh is a 70-minute flight from Ho Chi Minh City, and a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Designed to reflect a Vietnam village, the Anam incorporates Indochine notes with modern amenities.

The Anam is built on a 12-hectare property with 2123 villas, rooms and suites, a 3D movie theatre, kids club, concierge services and much more.

On arrival at the Anam Cam Ranh, one is greeted by an open high ceiling lobby with Indochine architecture, and French colonial furnishings. This design flows throughout the resort with beautiful and intricate mosaic tiled floors, dark woods, cane furniture and local art. The check in was seamless with refreshments and a buggy ride to my accommodation.

I stayed in a Sea View Villa King with a patio view of the sea and the rolling mountains which are covered in lush vegetation. At night the balcony is the perfect place to observe the stars and enjoy the cool sea breeze. Rooms have old world charm and modern amenities. The bathrooms are particularly spectacular which are large and opulently tiled in slate tiles. There was a sunken bathtub with a window overlooking a private garden, double sinks, a rain shower, and luxury sustainable toiletries.

There is an abundance of meticulously maintained lawns and plants at the Anam Cam Ranh, creating an atmosphere of peace and serenity. The soft turf on the lawns personifies a luxuriously weaved natural carpet that is tirelessly maintained by the gardening crew at The Anam.

Walking barefoot among the lawns and gardens is part of the Anam’s ethos of balance and harmony. In pursuit of wellbeing, guests can enjoy a range of activities. There are complimentary yoga sessions each dawn and dusk with the Anam’s resident yogi, and a yoga studio and deck available for private yoga sessions. There are three pools to choose from including an adult only pool which is surrounded by sunlounges and complete with refreshments.

The spa incorporates ancient healing techniques in a Zen like setting. The extravagant experience encompasses spa treatments as well as a sensory garden and reflexology path.

The Spa offers a plethora of luxury spa treatments. There is also wellness programs.

At the luxury resort, guests can experience memorable epicurean experiences that will awake your senses. My experience of dinner at the Lang Viet Restaurant and Bar was exceptional.

The restaurant is set inside a traditional longhouse, and in the evening the muted lighting and sea breeze offers diners a unique place to sit back and enjoy the journey.

There is an extensive menu which is based on the geographical areas of Vietnam. A historical, cultural, and culinary experience not to be missed.

The Colonial is a multifunctional dining restaurant. During the day for selected suites and villas, the Colonial is a more intimate atmosphere for a buffet and a’ la carte breakfast, in the afternoon the Colonial offers a stylish and traditional afternoon tea. In the evening the Colonial transforms into a chic European restaurant with French inspired fine dining.

The resort uses locally sourced ingredients and produce in its restaurants. The Indochine restaurant has an extensive breakfast buffet, overlooking the pool. The Beach club offers a more casual space, right on the oceanfront. A great place to enjoy a signature cocktail and a live band.

The Saigon Bar is sophisticated and stylish, the perfect atmosphere to enjoy a negroni while listening to the Anam’s resident pianist.

The foundation or philosophy of a Vietnamese village of wellness and serenity is present in every aspect of your stay. The staff are attentive and hospitable, their passion for the Anam was always present. The luxury resort caters for all travellers and new and exciting developments are happening.

The Anam is in the process of building a new business centre, which includes a conference hall that can host up to a 1000 people.

The business centre will also include shopping and dining facilities and a roof top bar overlooking the beach.

Also read: The Anantara Experience: Luxury by the riverside in Bangkok