The Seahorse is on an idyllic stretch of beach on the Mui Ni peninsula, 7 miles from Phan Thiet town. It is a region very popular with kite-boarders and the coast can become a little windswept at certain off-season times of year, but on a calm day the beach truly is exquisite. On first impressions The Seahorse has the feel of a conventional beach resort hotel, which is essentially what it is – though very pleasant and friendly. Don’t expect anything radically ‘cutting edge’ and you won’t be disapointed. It’s a fine resort.

There are 36 bungalows, well spaced through pretty gardens and then a further 116 rooms and suites in the main buildings. We advise that you stay in the bungalows, which vary depending on location – garden view, pool view, sea-facing and the ultimate beach front variety. All are spacious, well-equipped, light and breezy. There are several dining options, with both the ‘Seahorse Bistro’ and ‘Hippocampe Restaurant’ rustling up decent meals with super-fresh bounty from the ocean. Of the two, its best to head to ‘The Hippocampe’ as it is right on the beach, as is the ‘NonLa Bar’ – venue of choice for sundowners.

The Seahorse also promotes itself as a spa resort, the facilities for which are housed in a separate structure featuring 10 treatment rooms which use natural stone and wood. Natural light is transmitted in to each room, making the space airy and quiet. The spa offers both ancient therapies and modern applications, often using essential oils and fresh lemongrass scent.