Vietnam almost always makes the cut when Indians plan an international holiday. The outbound flight is the duration of a night's sleep and when coupled with affordable cost of stay and a stress-free exchange rate, it has become the top choice for a reasonably-priced holiday which doesn't break the bank. In the recent past, social media has been crammed with travel guides in Vietnam that promise bang for your buck to shop, eat and live in the country. Though true in part, it has led to the notion that while an international holiday in Vietnam can be budget-friendly, one must expect a no-frills affair throughout. My recent trip to the South East Asian country showed me that Vietnam can have a bit of split personality. In Ho Chi Minh, an affordable holiday on a budget is possible but so is living in the lap of luxury. I strongly believe that the Grand Ho Tram is responsible for the latter. On this edition of #SheSays, I discuss the dichotomy of travel in Vietnam and how The Grand Ho Tram is changing the perception of luxury hospitality in Vietnam.
A sense of chaos enveloped me from the minute the plane landed in Tan Son Nhat airport. After scouring the baggage carousel for my luggage and glancing through the Duty Free selection, my usual travel anxiety at having entered a new country was put at ease when I was whisked away to The Grand Ho Tram. Throughout the 3-hour long drive, the capital city bustled with throngs of hawkers peddling breakfast-fresh baguettes, shutters being rolled up for the day and streets full of two-wheelers zipping to their daily commute. Gradually as we made it to the coastal outskirts, the scenery changed to airy green foliage and choppy blue waves, marking a shift from the scuttling cityscape to the plush suburbs. The Grand Ho Tram was akin to an oasis in the midst of the desert. Welcoming us with fountains and flamingo sculptures, the entrance aptly put the "grand" in its name.
The marvellous foyer opens up to the multiple accommodations by IHG which are housed within the complex. On one side, there's the Holiday Inn that is perfect for families and friends travelling together. One can choose a view of the sprawling golf course and its adjacent woods or complex's sparkling blue swimming pools. Children will travel smoothly when they nap in delightful marine themed rooms with bunk beds to make sleep time fuss-free. For the adults, there's the option of smoking and non-smoking rooms, balconies and tubs in the compact yet comfortable spaces. The other side of the lobby serves as an entrance to the Intercontinental, which is designed for corporate travellers and couples seeking a sophisticated Vietnamese stay. Rooms feature a classic view of the sand-lined beaches and range from cosy accommodations to junior suites to ultimately, the presidential suite which is the top preference of celebrities. The latter encompasses its own spa as well as gym and theatre, so it's a no-brainer why any A-lister would choose it.
That is hardly the only reason, of course. Amenities of The Grand Ho Tram are where its luxurious glint surfaces to guests residing on the premises. Besides the slew of cafes and clubs is the prized jewel of the Ho Tram strip. A stone's throw away from the complex is The Bluffs, an 18-hole golf course designed by legendary sportsman Greg Norman. Carved within hilly terrain, one can practise their putt or try their hand on the beginner's course, all while being shuttled around in a golf cart. Also situated off the complex is Ixora by Fusion, a complex of accommodations for long-staying guests complete with its own spa, swimming pool and restaurant with a stunning view of the sea.
Within The Grand Ho Tram, there's a world of activities for guests to discover. There are not one or two but a total of eight swimming pools; some featuring personal cabanas, others with an infinity edge overlooking the sea and still others designed like a beach for children to frolic in. While the Lotus Spa offers swift treatments if your feet need a break, the Grand Spa is ideal for an indulgent night to scrub and slough the fatigue away over a couple of hours. If that wasn't extravagant enough, the complex also houses its own bowling alley and movie theatre, so guests don't get even a whiff of boredom.
If it's excitement we're talking about, then we need to rewind to the second we walked into the palatial lobby. Accented with cafes and restaurants, is their state-of-the-art casino. It's glitzy, it's gleaming and it's the hottest spot on the strip every weekend, for obvious reasons. Making play time at the slots and roulette table even more efficient is an ATM machine and bank counter right next to the casino. Spending money has never been this easy of a process.
Any itinerary at The Grand Ho Tram is bound to be filled to the brim with all that Vietnam's answer to Las Vegas, has to offer. From amazing access to activities you've only ever talked about to a sophisticated stay that includes a plunge pool and terrace in your room, you're certain to feel like the creme de la creme of society when you check into The Grand Ho Tram.
After an incredible stay on the Strip and further, a trip to live in the heart of the city's hustle and bustle, it was crystal clear. Ho Chi Minh is a place of complete contradictions. You can sink your teeth into a Bahn Mi on the street, as well as into a truffle-garnished lobster. You can make your Vietnamese Dongs go a long way with street shopping and you can get an unobstructed view of the sun setting from the infinity swimming pool. You can soak in the French origins of the city on a guided tour and you can drift off to sleep as the knots in your back are eased on the massage table. If you've chosen any of the latter, then heading to The Grand Ho Tram should be where you go for your next holiday.
In #SheSays, Dayle Pereira explores the sights, sounds, experiences and tastes of luxury hospitality at hotels and resorts, restaurants and hotspots all over the world.
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