The Empyrean Cam Ranh Beach Resort

The resort is in Area 4 of the northern Cam Ranh peninsula, in Cam Nghia ward, on the Bai Dai strip where nearly every five-star resort in Khanh Hoa sits. The beach is a few minutes on foot.

The most practical thing about it is the airport: about four kilometres, a few minutes by road. For a late flight or a two-night trip, that number is worth more than most amenities — you do not lose half a day to transfers at either end.

The flip side of that same position: nearer the airport means further from Nha Trang. Reckon forty to forty-five minutes into the city. Add the condition shared by all of Bai Dai — almost nothing to eat outside the gates — and most meals will be on site.

Two questions before booking: what board options exist — half or full — and whether there is a shuttle into Nha Trang. Those answers move the total cost of a trip more than the room rate does.