Visitors to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are generally drawn to the ancient city’s captivating, well-preserved architecture dating back to its heyday as a thriving Asian trading port. Those who stay at The Nam Hai, located nearby, will also be struck by the resort’s impressive architecture and interior design, which was inspired by 2,500 years of history. Located on the shores of Ha My Beach, the luxury retreat encourages guests to relax in style. Even more tranquil is The Spa at The Nam Hai and its eight gorgeous treatment villas, which appear to float over a serene koi-filled lagoon. Each includes a clever use of windows and French doors to bring the outdoors in, as well as provide privacy. Complete with an open-air relaxation deck, a deep-soak bathtub, and a cushioned daybed built for two, the four double and four single treatment villas make a visit to the spa a true indulgence.
Although the idyllic setting is certainly a highlight, the spa’s service menu doesn’t disappoint. According to spa director Brenda Ramen, it was meant to embrace the local culture. For example, the spa offers a host of Asian rituals, such as the Vietnam Oriental Ritual ($230, 2 hours 30 minutes), which includes an aromatherapy foot polish, an herbal steam bath, a Vietnamese massage, and reflexology. The Traditional Vietnamese Massage ($110, 60 minutes; $159, 90 minutes), one of the spa’s most popular treatments, combines massage and pressure-point work to balance the flow of chi. The spa is also finding success with The Nam Hai Jade Massage ($192, 60 minutes), which involves two therapists utilizing synchronized movements and a variety of massage techniques, such as Balinese, lomilomi, shiatsu, Swedish, and Thai.
The menu is also an extension of the chosen product lines. Guests who travel across numerous time zones to visit the exquisite property will appreciate the Ila Bio-Rhythm Envelopment for Jetlag ($274, 2 hours) and the Ila Envelopment for Energising ($197, 90 minutes). Those interested in a seaweed-based treatment can opt for the Voya Organic Seaweed Leaf Envelopment for Detoxification ($274, 2 hours), Voya Organic Seaweed Bathing Ceremony ($55, 30 minutes), or a body polish from the marine-infused line. This year, spa-goers will have even more treatments from which to choose when several new services are introduced, including a pre-natal massage, the Tibetan Ku Nye Massage, the Amethyst Wrap and Gemstone Facial from Ila, an after-sun treatment from Coola, and a number of facials from Voya.
Aside from a variety of skin-saving and muscle-melting treatments, guests can also find their happy place with complimentary yoga overlooking the South China Sea. Private sessions are also available for those who prefer to say “om” alone.
With 17 employees on staff, the spa is able to handle 40 guests each day. Finding good help, however, is a challenge. “Being located outside the city makes it difficult to find experienced employees,” says Ramen. “We overcome this by developing and providing training programs for them. We provide initial therapy training, which is ongoing, along with English classes to improve language skills.” According to Ramen, another major challenge is increasing the capture rate of in-house guests. The resort itself is such a serene and peaceful place that it can be difficult to coax guests away from their inviting villas and private plunge pools. However, those who do make time for a visit to the spa find it well worth the trip.
Owner: Indochina Capital
Corporate Spa Director: Brenda Ramen
Opened: December 2006
CLIENT BASE
60% female, 40% male
MOST REPRESENTED COUNTRIES:
U.S., UK, Germany
SPACE
21,528 square feet; 8 treatment villas
OFFERINGS
aromatherapy, Ayurveda, body treatments, couples’ treatments, facials, fitness, hand and foot treatments, massage, reflexology, waxing, yoga
SIGNATURE SERVICE
The Nam Hai Oriental Ritual ($438, 2 hours 30 minutes), which includes the Aromatherapy Foot Polish, The Nam Hai Jade Massage, the Organic Naturelle D’Orient Facial, Thai-style Foot Reflexology, the Himalayan Crystal Body Polish, and the Oriental Bathing Ceremony
MOST EXPENSIVE OFFERING
The Nam Hai Oriental Ritual ($438, 2 hours 30 minutes)
PRODUCT LINES
Abahna, Coola, D’Orient Tradition, Ila, SpaRitual, Sundãri, Voya
EQUIPMENT
Living Earth Crafts, SpaBooker, Unbescheiden
ARCHITECT & INTERIOR DESIGNER
Reda Amalou, AW2 (Paris)
SPA CONSULTANT
Panissara Chaokhelang (Chiang Mai, Thailand)