HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM (May 13, 2024) – As Gran Meliá Nha Trang launches its ‘Exceptional Experiences’ collection this month, the hotel is diving right in with excursions that elevate one of the coastal town’s most stunning natural assets while also giving it a sustainable twist.

The new luxury hotel is steering guests towards calm, crystal waters, offering exclusive experiences on a private luxury boat, with an on-board butler, and opportunities to contribute positively to the local ecosystem through coral plantation.

The Exceptional Experience’s sea-focused offerings include Coral Discovery and a Catamaran Voyage, while a new gastronomic experience introduces Spanish cuisine.

Coral Discovery

The five-hour Gran Coral Discovery is a trip by private catamaran or yacht to the coral reefs surrounding Tri Nguyen Island. In these clear waters guests can contribute to local conservation efforts by planting their own coral in a nursery while also exploring the underwater world and enjoying time on the boat and a decadent brunch.

A coral workshop led by an expert biologist helps guests gain a deep understanding of Nha Trang’s rich eco-system and what makes it so unique. Refreshments, local delicacies, and professional photos are included. The experience continues long after the vacation. Guests can track the coral they have planted through a QR Code to see how it is growing and when it has been moved from the nursery to the open sea. Prices start at VND 54,000,000 for a party of six.

A shorter two-hour experience, with a more dedicated focus on learning about and planting coral, is available just steps from the resort’s sandy shore or at Tri Nguyen Island reached by luxury yacht or catamaran. During the trip guests will learn about various coral species and their crucial role. They will also attach coral fragments to a frame through a hands-on shallow dive. As these young corals blossom, they will develop into an ecosystem that attracts tropical fish and other exotic species, creating lasting benefits for the ocean. The trip includes transfers, coral planting, diving equipment (PADI Certification is not necessary) and insurance. Prices start at VND 5,000,000 per person.

“Many of us don’t consider what’s happening in our oceans but coral reefs are some of the most ecologically valuable ecosystems on our planet,” said Ignacio Martin, Managing Director for Asia Pacific, Meliá Hotels International. “When dreaming up our Exceptional Experiences we wanted to offer more than just a scenic cruise, which is a popular activity here. We wanted more for our guests – for them to walk away with a deeper connection to marine conservation efforts and an authentic taste of Vietnam’s coastline culture and natural beauty.”

Catamaran Voyage

The Catamaran Voyage in Nha Trang Bay is the highest tier of the Exceptional Experiences, with an exclusive private catamaran charter at each group’s disposal for five-and-a-half hours and a customizable itinerary. The bespoke excursion can include snorkeling, a trip to a secluded island, standup paddle boarding, or relaxing on board with a feast of freshly-caught seafood and local gourmet dishes. Additional extras include a private DJ, flycam, and/or private photographer. Prices start from VND 22,000,000 for a party of two. The maximum group size is 12.

Private Cooking Experience

Foodies can learn the art of Michelin-rated cuisine with a four-hour ‘Private Cooking Experience.’ More than just a cooking class, this culinary adventure begins with a trip to a bustling local fish market. Guests then return to Gran Meliá Nha Trang to craft seafood paella based on a time-honored recipe from the celebrated Spanish chef Marcos Morán of Hispania. The experience is accompanied by homemade sangria. Every guest will also be presented with a recipe book. Prices start from VND 6,650,00 for a party of two.

In-Villa Experiences

Guests can also unwind in comfort and privacy of their own room with a series of exclusive in-villa experiences, including a blissful bathtub ritual and bespoke spa therapies to soothe the senses, and curated culinary experiences such as afternoon tea and a private barbecue in the garden. The selection of pool villas range in size from 314 to 699-square-metres. All feature lofty ceilings, stylish décor and many rooms offer unobstructed sea views.

Exceptional Experiences Around the World

Exceptional Experiences is a signature program created by the Gran Meliá brand and offered through their luxury hotels around the world. These curated, upscale experiences immerse guests in the local culture and destination and are unique to each location. Whether it be exploring the fashion mecca of Madrid with social and cultural anthropologist Daniel Pérez Barriga or strolling through ancient olive groves in Mallorca before enjoying an olive oil tasting, these one-of-a-kind encounters encapsulate the art of a life well-lived through a local lens.

Located in its own private bay with the Fairy Mountain peaks behind and the sea stretching out in front, Gran Meliá Nha Trang is an upscale sanctuary inspired by the surrounding landscape. The new property features 94 expansive private pool villas; Asia’s first outpost of the highly-acclaimed Spanish restaurant, Hispania, along with four other gastronomic destinations; and indulgent wellness offerings from onsen to spa. The resort is situated within a new, world-class leisure and entertainment destination in Nha Trang, Vega City. The complex boasts a range of activities, such as an opera house called the Do theatre, a beach club, and a quaint walking street with shophouses. Gran Meliá is the most luxurious offering of all the Meliá brands and Gran Meliá Nha Trang is the first Gran Meliá resort in Vietnam. www.melia.com