While readers lodged three Vietnam resorts onto the list, they also sung the praises of five resorts from Bali and five resorts from Thailand.

“Both Bali and Thailand have tremendous reputations as resort destinations,” said John Blanco, the new general manager at The Nam Hai. “So, for Vietnam to make this kind of impression on readers of such a distinguished travel magazine is indeed remarkable.”

The Readers’ Choice Awards polled 25,916 responses from readers who rated resorts and hotels across these five categories: food/dining, location, overall design, rooms and service. Resort ratings were also based on activities/facilities.

According to Conde Nast, only candidates that received a required minimum number of responses were deemed eligible for an award.

None of Vietnam’s islands made the Readers’ Choice Awards. Bali and Phuket were among the top three island destinations in Asia, which makes Vietnam’s resort standings all the more impressive.

Similarly, Vietnam’s top cities failed to make the top-ten cut. Bangkok and Chiang Mai came in at number 1 and 2, while Bali’s Ubud ranked fifth.