For The Thiên, Paradise is a Chill Day in Da Nang

A paradise that’s close to home

Thể Thiên is one of Vietnam’s fastest-rising pop stars, known for his high-energy stage persona and effortlessly cool off-duty style.

The nephew of legendary Vietnamese composer Trịnh Công Sơn, Thể Thiên grew up around music, dreaming of becoming a singer from a young age. A former celebrity stylist, he made the switch in early 2025 with the release of his debut album, Trần Thế.

Based in sprawling Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Thể Thiên now finds himself caught up in the whirlwind of rehearsals, shoots, and tour dates. So on his day off, what he looks for is simple: calm, quiet, and the chance to just exist.

“Being from Saigon, I’m a city boy,” he says. “So I think it’s important to go on a trip occasionally and take a breather. Da Nang is one of those cities where you’ve got the urban and beach life—and you can go up the mountains, too. This is my definition of paradise—where I can slow down, journal, and just do nothing.”

In the last five years, Da Nang’s blue waters and bustling urban life have made it one of Asia’s emerging tourist destinations. But for Thể Thiên, a trip to Da Nang is a homecoming of sorts: his family is from the area. He grew up eating central Vietnamese food, citing favorites like bánh xèo—crispy, savory turmeric “pancake” filled with shrimp and pork.

“Central Vietnam will always have a special place in my heart because my family is actually from Hue, which is just an hour from here. I also love it here because of the food—I’m a huge foodie. That perfect balance of savory and sweet is iconic to this region.”

In this video, Thể Thiên lets us tag along for one day in his version of paradise. Read on below to learn more about his favorite spots in Da Nang, Vietnam.

10AM: InterContinental Da Nang Sun Peninsula Resort

Nestled within the lush Son Tra Peninsula, the InterContinental Da Nang Sun Peninsula Resort is a masterpiece by architect Bill Bensley. With its tiered design cascading to a private beach, it offers panoramic views of the sea.

Guests can traverse the property via the vertical Nam Tram funicular, a nod to traditional Vietnamese basket boats. The resort is also home to the endangered red-shanked douc langur, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

12PM: Bánh Xèo Bà Dưỡng

Tucked in a narrow alley off Hoàng Diệu Street, Bánh Xèo Bà Dưỡng is a culinary institution in Da Nang. For over three decades, it has served its namesake dish, bánh xèo: turmeric-laced rice pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. The dish comes with fresh herbs and rice paper for wrapping into rolls, and a peanut sauce for dipping.

In Central Vietnam, bánh xèo is called bánh khoái, and it’s typically smaller and crunchier than its counterparts in Saigon and Hanoi.

2PM: XLIII Specialty Coffee

Formerly known as 43 Factory Coffee Roaster, XLIII Specialty Coffee is one of Da Nang’s best stops for craft coffee. Located in the hip My An area, the café has a minimalist design and offers a curated selection of beans sourced globally.

With a focus on sustainability, XLIII provides a serene environment—including this sparkling koi pond—to sit and savor meticulously brewed coffee, or to just vibe with nature.

3PM: Mỹ Khê Beach

Just down the street from XLIII is Mỹ Khê Beach, a bustling, palm-fringed stretch of coastline that locals claim is the most beautiful beach in Vietnam. Known for its gentle waves and golden sand, the beach is popular with surfers and sunbathers alike.

COURTESY **VIETNAM NATIONAL AUTHORITY OF TOURISM**

On a weekday afternoon, it’s surprisingly laid-back, perfect for a quick dip or just sitting under a tree while sipping a fresh coconut.

5PM: Dragon Bridge (Cầu Rồng)

Spanning Da Nang’s Han River, the Dragon Bridge is an iconic symbol of the city’s rapid development and Vietnam’s cultural heritage. At 666 meters long, the bridge resembles a dragon, a creature deeply rooted in Vietnamese mythology.

On weekends, the dragon breathes fire and water, offering a spectacular display that captivates locals and tourists.

7PM: La Maison 1888

La Maison 1888 is Central Vietnam’s first and only Michelin-starred restaurant—so far. The establishment, emulating a colonial French mansion, offers a French tasting menu curated by chef Pierre Gagnaire.