Introduction to Danang

Danang, the fourth-largest city in Vietnam, is one of the most important seaports in the central region, and the current booming Vietnamese economy has seen an economic growth (GDP) rate in busy Danang as high as 14%. As the most convenient deep-water port in the region, Danang is now greeting more and more international cruise ships along with the glut of trade vessels.
The city played a prominent historical role in the Vietnam War. It was the landing site for the first U.S. troops officially sent to Vietnam on March 8, 1965. On that day, 3,500 soldiers in beach assault vehicles joined more than 23,000 U.S. advisors who were already in the country.
Danang has nothing in the way of charm and there aren't any major attractions except for the Cham Museum, which has become just a quick stop on the tourist-cafe buses between Hoi An and Hue. But Furama Resort, a short ride from the city center, is one of the finest high-end resorts in Indochina, and there are some excellent-value hotels in town (some use this as a budget base to explore nearby Hoi An).
China Beach, and also nearby My Khe Beach, are worth a stop. This former U.S. recreation base has a light-sand coast with excellent views of the nearby Marble Mountains, and it's beginning to draw more and more international tourists, as well as weekend visits by Danang's growing expat community



Where to Stay

Furama Resort Danang

Address 68 Ho Xuan Huong St, Danang Location Ocean-side 11km/7 miles south and west of Danang Phone 0511/847-333

Frommer's Review
The Furama is one of the finest destination resorts in the region. Just a short ride southwest of Danang and elegantly situated near a beautiful sand beach, this popular upscale gem greets you in style with a grand lobby that is more or less the gilded frame to beautiful scenery: sand, sun, and sky. Whether you're a sailor, a beach bum, or a comfort junky, you'll find what you want here. There are two gorgeous swimming pools: one a multitiered minimalist still life overlooking the open beach, and the other a faux lagoon, complete with small waterfall and bridge, a romantic hideaway. It's a good place to just relax, but there's also always something to do: The hotel offers local tours, yoga, tai chi, a spa, and a full aesthetic salon. Rooms are large and comfortable with wood floors, Vietnamese-style furniture, and sliding doors to balconies that overlook the ocean or pool. Large marble bathrooms have all the amenities. Prices are determined by view, and oceanfront units are only steps from the beach and well worth it. Small suites are a great option, with large double beds on raised areas and a sunken sitting area with large, cushy white couch overlooking balconies and the sea beyond. Competitive rates are available if you contact the hotel directly. They have a good business center and wireless Internet access in the bar area. Dining choices are great and their restaurants flank a large, central area with a small reflecting pool in the center -- quite peaceful. Note that watersports are only available from February through September because the surf is too rough the rest of the year. Resort amenities are extensive, but they have to be because the site is quite isolated. There are shuttles to the city.
Facilities: 3 restaurants; 3 bars; 2 outdoor pools (1 in courtyard, 1 multilevel w/ocean view); 4 lighted tennis courts; luxe health club; spa; sauna; diving; sailboat (Laser) and kayak rental; concierge; tour desk; business center w/Internet; lobby shopping (gallery); salon; 24-hr. room service; massage; laundry; conference and banquet rooms.







Bamboo Green Hotel

Address 158 Phan Chau Trinh St, Danang Phone 0511/822-996; 0511/822-997
Frommer's Review
The best choice in Danang proper, Bamboo Green is operated by Vietnamtourism -- this one's the best of its three properties in town (Bamboo Green II and III are comparable but less luxurious). Rooms are large with clean beige carpets and are well furnished (except for the hideous polyester bedspreads). The good-size marble bathrooms with hair dryers look brand-new, and rooms are as cozy as at any midrange U.S. chain. Ask for a room on the top floor for a good city view. There's a big restaurant with decent Asian/Vietnamese fare and good tour services. The staff is friendly.






Saigon Tourane Hotel

Address 5 Dong Da St, Danang Phone 0511/821-021
Frommer's Review
Popular with European tour groups, you can expect comfort at a low cost in this nondescript, friendly hotel on the north end of town. Carpeted rooms are clean, with tidy, good-size bathrooms; some have good city views from upper floors. But it's certainly not luxurious: The general atmosphere is marked by failing neon signs and worn carpets that speak of the volumes that pass through. Saigontourist owns this hotel and can make any necessary arrangements with little hassle. The staff couldn't be any kinder. Be sure to ask for a room away from the karaoke -- far away from the karaoke. Right next door is the Danang Hotel (01-03 Dong Da St.; tel. 0511/834-662), with budget rooms from $16 if you're in a pinch.






Bach Dang Riverside Hotel

Address 50 Bach Dang St, Danang Phone 0511/823-649

Frommer's Review
This big riverside hotel that's long been a popular expat address has already fought its battles and is pretty beat up. But rooms are tidy and there are lots of amenities that are well maintained. Staff is quite helpful and you'll find lots of shops and local dining options in the esplanade out front. Nothing to write home about, though.






My Khe Hotel

Address 241 Nguyen Van Thoai St, Danang City Location Son Tra District Phone 0511/836-125

Frommer's Review
A very basic big block of a hotel at seaside, the My Khe Hotel is a budget alternative -- and you get what you pay for: just the basics. Expect little more than a clean tile room with basic tub/shower bathroom. The staff doesn't speak English.