The My An mineral spa is surrounded by attractive cultivated gardens extending over 18ha. It offers therapeutic mineral water treatments, and accommodation in large traditional houses.
The complex is owned and run by the Hue-based Huong Giang Hotel Company with Japanese investment.
A pleasant 7km drive from Hue alongside the river takes you past several interesting pagodas and commune houses. The spa complex is set back from the road. The main pool, therapy area and accommodation are complete. A second phase including a reception area and a large restaurant is under construction for completion in 2005. As the area being developed is completely separate from the completed elements, a visit or stay is perfectly feasible.
The mineral water artesian spring rises from a depth of 150m at a surface temperature of 52˚C. As you approach the spring, you become aware of the characteristic ‘bad eggs’ smell of hydrogen sulphide. The water, cooled to 42˚C, feeds a large attractive swimming pool. Adjacent is a smaller pool surrounded by fresh water shower cubicles.
The air around the pool is apparently charged with negatively charged particles (ions). Breathing it is believed to give relief to sufferers from certain allergies, such as allergic sinusitis and asthma. Bathing or swimming in the water is reputed to be beneficial for skin ailments, healing wounds, slowing the effects of aging, reducing the risk of strokes, helping breathing and relieving indigestion.
The Spa produces a gargle and mouthwash based on the spring water.
Our intrepid inspection team acted as guinea pigs to see if the Spa’s assertion that the water is drinkable was true. The answer is ‘Yes – just about’, but it’s better if you hold your nose. Drinking the water is said to be good for indigestion, constipation and flatulence. As none of us admitted to such afflictions, we can’t confirm its effectiveness or otherwise.