Staying at the Anantara Resort, in Hoi An, Vietnam

Anantara Resort, Hoi An. Photo / Supplied

Belinda Henley checks into the Anantara Resort, in Hoi An, Vietnam.

Getting there: Hoi An is a 30-minute taxi ride from Da Nang airport.

Check in experience: The Vietnamese certainly know how to do check-in. Offered a refreshing towel, sweet snacks and icy cold drink. The staff were incredibly helpful, advising on and booking dinner reservations for us and sorting out a local guide to show us around.

Location: Just on the outskirts of the Hoi An old town. Set right on the banks of the Thu Bon river and with a resort-style pool area (with poolside drinks and snacks). It was a welcome oasis from the busy old town, jam-packed with tourists.

Room: Very spacious, set across two levels and separated into three distinct spaces with living, bedroom and bathroom. I particularly liked the day beds outside the room, which looked out on to the busy river making for endless people-and-boat-watching pleasure.

The bed: Let's talk about the pillows. Although the bed was good, the pillows were memorable. Why can't we get pillows like that in NZ?

Toiletries: Elemis toiletries provided as well as generous amenities including shower cap, dental kit, shaving kit, even hair ties.

Food and drink: The Riverside restaurant is a stunning place to watch the sun set over the river and enjoy a cocktail or meal. The buffet breakfast is served on the first floor and offers all a mix of Vietnamese and Western favourites (try the Vietnamese omelette). The pastries are made fresh each day on site and they also make their own smoothies and Kombucha.

Noise: A bit of noise from passing river traffic, but nothing which interrupted any sleep!

Exercise facilities: Small but functional gym by the pool complex.

The Spa: The Anantara Spa has four treatment rooms offering a mix of traditional and more modern beauty and therapeutic treatments. Each room has a deep bath for scrubs infused with essential oils.

Online: anantara.com

Perfect for: Anyone wanting a spacious riverside room and a relaxing reprieve from exploring Hoi An.