Maia Quy Nhon – A Fusion Resort, Vietnam
Words: Monica Tindall
Photos: Han Sen Hau
Our first impression of Maia Resort Quy Nhon is one of perfection. It looks like a utopian society where everything is carefully manicured, and not even a leaf is out of place. It’s brand new, and the clean lines, young staff and magnificent gardens all contribute to the appeal.
Just-mown lawns lined by spring-green tropical shrubs and frangipani trees create long lines leading the eye to the sea. The coastline is magnificent. A long stretch of fine white sand, bordered by lush vegetation and the deep-blue sea, is breathtaking. This coastline resembles much of the Mediterranean, only it’s the middle of summer, and we practically have the beach to ourselves. It’s a sun seekers’ heaven and pretty much untouched by international tourists.
Maia Resort Quy Nhon Villas
Just under 100 villas are spread over the immaculate grounds. Ranging from the 61 sqm Garden Villa to the 264 sqm Three-bedroom Beachfront Pool Villa and everything in between, there’s something to accommodate most needs here.
We’re in a 120sqm Garden Pool Villa. The covered deck, garden, and pool are the size of the interior again. It’s absolutely stunning! A neutral palette is brightened with varying shades of blue in cushions and artwork. Floor-to-ceiling glass sliding doors let in plenty of natural light but can be closed off with blackout curtains when you need privacy or sleep.
The room is divided into three sections: the living room, bedroom, and bathroom. All are spacious. Wooden sliding doors privatise the bathroom. We’d appreciate the opportunity to close the bedroom from the living room, but that is not yet possible. Maybe with feedback, they’ll consider the idea.
There’s a small mini-bar with several drinks, tea, three-in-one instant coffee, and water. A couple of pieces of fruit and two jars of snacks – chips and cookies – are welcome bites. During turn-down service, more sweets are delivered, a changing selection depending on the kitchen’s whim.
A large flat-screen TV with international channels and SMART capabilities is on a swivel, easily turned to face the living room or bedroom as desired. The bed can be made up as a king or Hollywood twins. The sofa in the living room could also comfortably sleep an adult. Side tables are large enough to charge devices, hold some water, and perhaps hold a book. Charging points are all local, but you can borrow an international adaptor if need be.
The bathroom is large, with double sinks, a bathtub, and handheld and rain shower heads. While the pressure is not that of a fire hose, we do take note of the easily adjustable head that can be turned to spray at just about any angle and remain in place.
Additionally, light robes, straw slippers, beach baskets, fans and sun hats are provided for use within the resort. The little things are much appreciated – no sand in our shoes or bags, thank you.
And that’s just the indoors! Outside is a beautiful courtyard garden centred by a swimming pool, daybed and healthy white frangipani tree. Now several years old, the thick coastal shrubs acting as walls have grown in, almost but not quite completely privatising the area. The patio has a sunken lounge chair, table two chairs, and a clothes horse. We’d love to see a ceiling fan here to extend the use of the outdoor area for longer periods. I use the deck as my office early mornings before the heat of the day sets in.
Facilities
The beach is the obvious attraction at Maia Resort Quy Nhon. It’s a four-kilometre stretch of flat, easily walkable sand. Besides a magnificently long stretch of white, fine-sand beach, Maia Resort Quy Nhon has an infinity pool by the sea and an adults-only pool within the spa complex. There’s also a children’s indoor and outdoor playground and fitness centre.
I love walking through the gardens and on the beach, but it’s nice to return to the gym afterwards for some strength work and a good stretch. The gym is furnished with a high-quality Technogym treadmill, cross-trainer, stepper, seated bike, and racing bike. There’s also an assortment of kettleballs, dumbbells, and mats. Yoga classes are scheduled regularly, and there’s a calendar of activities, such as beach soccer, kayaking courses, and badminton.
There’s plenty to do or not do as you please at Maia Resort Quy Nhon. However, if you’re looking to explore beyond the property, the team can arrange any number of experiences. In fact, the resort is well set up for large groups, and we see several examples of team sports, such as kayaking, group dinners on the lawn and excursions. One morning, We explore the area, catching ancient sites and quaint fishing villages, dining on local food, and even visiting a conical hat maker. Check out the top things to do in Quy Nhon here.
Vẽla Spa
If you’d prefer a more laid-back itinerary, Vẽla Spa is a must for wellness enthusiasts or general relaxation. The purpose-built sanctuary blends seamlessly with its seaside setting. Ecologically-focused products make good use of local wisdom, harnessing the powers of Vietnamese botanicals and their healing properties. We begin to relax just by being in the area. The ceiling-high glass doors are open on both sides, encouraging a gentle drift to flow through. The soft sway of gauzy curtains leads our eyes out to the herb garden of rosemary and butterfly peas, dotted with white frangipani, Arabian jasmine and spider lilies around the pool.
Facials, massages, body treatments, manicures and pedicures are all on the menu at Vẽla Spa. It’s a complete luxury experience with all the details accounted for. Guests are greeted with a chilled welcome refreshment and farewelled with hot tea. Sessions start with a footbath, and there’s a clear routine that ensures the ultimate comfort of guests. Beds are long enough for tall Western bodies, and disposable underwear, robes and slippers are provided. Music is present but not annoying or invasive, and the therapist regularly checks comfort levels. It all makes for a pampered afternoon.
Food & Beverage
Rounding out a balanced itinerary of activity and relaxation is good food and beverage – an essential component of a great getaway. With two restaurants – ad hoc and Vị – the Pool Bar and in-villa dining, guests will not go hungry. In fact, they may be tempted to stay a little longer to try the variety of food and experiences offered. It’s a foodie’s paradise, from floating breakfasts to in-villa afternoon teas, Vietnamese and international recipes, chef’s tables, and romantic dinners on the beach. To delve deeper into the resort’s culinary scene, read our follow-up piece on the exceptional food and beverage options at Maia Resort Quy Nhon.
Maia Resort Quy Nhon Review
Maia Resort Quy Nhon is an obvious choice for a relaxing beach getaway with its magnificent stretch of flat, fine-sand beach and private pool villas. However, an excellent spa, flexible activity arrangements and great food and beverage round out the experience, making it a versatile destination. A multitude of offerings alongside genuine and warm service from the local staff add up to a highly enjoyable stay.
Reasons to stay at Maia Resort Quy Nhon: beautiful beachside resort with picturesque gardens and contemporary private pool villas; versatile food and beverage choices; genuinely warm hospitality.
Maia Quy Nhon – A Fusion Resort
Nhon Hoi Economic Zone, Cat Tien Ward, Phu Cat District
Binh Dinh Province, Vietnam
+84 (0) 256 220 6688
[email protected]
@maiaresortquynhon
maiaresortquynhon.com
Link to Maia Quy Nhon on Google Maps
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