In the spaces that shelter Vietnam’s coastal sanctuaries, Cam Ranh is growing in stature, its popularity driven by new five star resorts and an expanding international airport.
Located on a narrow peninsula alongside the South China Sea in central southern Vietnam - Cam Ranh has farewelled its military history to settle comfortably into an enclave for relaxation and pleasure.
“It’s all that, relaxation and pleasure, and much more,” says Herbert Laubichler-Pichler, Alma Resort Cam Ranh’s managing director.
“The wonderful thing about Cam Ranh is the combination of the old and the new Vietnam. On our doorstep is rural Vietnam with its centuries old ways of life revolving around farming and fishing.
“The people here are very humble, honest and respectful. They have a rural background, and they have time for you,” he says.
Alma Resort Cam Ranh’s Oceanfront Pool Pavilion
The Alma Resort Cam Ranh fronts Long Beach and stretches across 30-hectares, embracing 14 dining outlets 12 beachfront pools, a waterpark, a 13-treatment room spa, a 75-seat cinema, a convention centre, gymnasium and yoga room, Along with an 18-hole mini golf course, youth centre and kids’ club.
In keeping with modern trends, those who want to work and play, are offered dedicated rooms. “We don’t put remote workers in pool villas, close to families and other large groups, instead offering them quieter, more insulated suites to minimise disturbances,” says Laubichler-Pichler.
Laubichler-Pichler has lived in Vietnam since 2008, during which time he has been at the helm of the Nam Hai in Danang and The Reverie Saigon. Those years in Vietnam have given him deep insights into a country whose popularity with international tourists is soaring.
Laubichler-Pichler, managing director, Alma Resort Cam Ranh
He points to the importance of Cam Ranh International airport for growing regional tourism. “It’s made the area accessible from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, helping to put Cam Ranh on the map,” he says.
Twenty domestic and international airlines fly into Cam Ranh, the fourth busiest airport in Vietnam, providing easy access to both Cam Ranh and neighbouring Nha Trang.
Once a military stronghold during the French colonial period, and later a deep water US base in the Vietnam War, today the province of Khnah Koa is welcoming domestic and international visitors for a little R&R.
The province received 3.8 million foreign visitors in the first 10 months of this year, more than a quarter of all international arrivals in Vietnam. Only Hanoi (5 million) and Ho Chi Minh City (4.6 million) have received more foreign visitors, according to state department of tourism figures.
Looking ahead, several infrastructure and tourism projects are planned to cater for rising tourist numbers. These include a US$80 million Cam Ranh international tourism service complex, an eco-cultural and spiritual tourism site and a wellness resort tailored for senior visitors.