A Luxury Grand Tour of Indochina

Overview

Just moments from the Opera House in the French Quarter of Hanoi, Hotel Metropole Hanoi boasts the most prestigious address in the city and ideally located for visitors to explore the charming architecture and bustling streets.

The hotel has 364 rooms and 22 suites and offers the finest heritage accommodation with all the contemporary comforts and impeccable service expected in a hotel of this stature. The bars and restaurants, especially Le Beaulieu, within the hotel are celebrated with Hanoi and guests have a choice of French, Vietnamese or International cuisine. After a busy day exploring Hanoi, the tranquil pool and Le Spa du Metropole are very welcoming.

Overview

Nestled on a peaceful boulevard along Hoàn Kiếm Lake, Capella Hanoi is an ode to the opera artists, designers and composers. Uncover unexpected moments of delightful retrospection in this palace of artistry highlighted by resplendent suites, enthralling dining experiences and the award-winning Auriga Spa.

This ultra-luxury masterpiece is designed by celebrated architect Bill Bensley, with hopes to revive the spirit of the Roaring Twenties in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Under Bill Bensley’s meticulous eye, the property was infused with early 20th-century details, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the spirit of the decade as part of a transformative travel experience.

As for the hotel itself, it houses 47 rooms and suites, each of which are individually styled with operatic memorabilia that pay tribute to Opera’s legendary artists, composers, designers and performances.

Discover a symphony of flavours at their dining venues – inspired by quintessential Northern Vietnamese dishes, Backstage elevates the region’s authentic flavours to new heights with modern touches, with lavish Hanoi luxury dining settings offering you the perfect restaurant near Hoan Kiem to wine and dine in. While at the heart of the hotel is their Diva’s Lounge, serving bohemian cocktails and ambrosial sweets in celebration of famous female artists who dared revolutionise their craft.

After a hard day’s exploring, sign yourself up at Auriga Spa – this wellness destination adopts a unique philosophy that taps on the celestial rhythms of the moon and fuses it with ancient Vietnamese traditions and nature’s finest ingredients. In the surroundings, guests can find a plethora of eclectic restaurants, bars, shops and markets.

Overview

Found within the heart of the historic quarter of Hanoi is the Hotel De L’Opera. You’ll find this boutique hotel to be luxurious in style and brimming with colonial charm.

The hotel’s elegant interior has been influenced by the iconic opera house nearby. Each of the 107 rooms has a vibrant and bold colour scheme, wooden floors and feature walls set off by delicate traditional silk drapes. Promising comfort, each of the sumptuous rooms have spacious en suites and modern amenities with views overlooking the city or the courtyard.

Choose from a la carte or buffet dining menus throughout the day, offering a fusion of international gourmet delights. In the evening, unwind in the hotel bar which features a relaxing atmosphere and an extensive cocktail list. This is a perfect base to explore the enchanting attractions and tranquil lakes found right on the hotel’s doorstep.

Overview

This vessel is small, yet exquisite. Built to resemble a traditional Asian junk ship, with décor inspired by both French and Indochinese influences, it is named after the delicate Violet Chirita flower and offers a wonderful way to experience the beauty of Halong Bay.

Due to the modest size of the Violet, there are just six suites on board, for an intimate and private sailing experience. Junior suites feature 20 square metres of floor space, which extends out onto a 5 square metre balcony, and an Italian marble bathroom with both a walk-in shower and a Jacuzzi. The four Imperial suites feature 1930s inspired Indochina décor and plush king-sized beds with a massive 38 square metres of space on the upper deck.

Enjoy creative Vietnamese fusion cuisine in the boat’s dining room, which serves seafood fresh from the Mekong, before enjoying drinks up on the sun deck in the evening. It’s here on the top level of the Violet that you can also take part in daily morning Tai Chi sessions with the ocean breeze in your hair.

Overview

An elegantly relaxed experience in Lan Ha, an area which is quieter than Halong Bay.

Three decks of polished woodwork, Indochine decor and panoramic views of the UNESCO-protected bay fill this cruiser. Despite its large size, the Ginger is home to just ten cabins, ensuring there is still an intimate atmosphere awaiting you on board.

Take in those gorgeous emerald views during a morning Tai Chi lesson, whilst dining at the restaurant or from the comfortable sundeck. Then, explore the fabulous limestone scenery close-up with unforgettable kayaking, snorkelling and caving tours.

Overview

Ylang is the exquisite newest member of Heritage Line’s ship collection, that sails through Lan Ha Bay. Its sleek and luxurious design set to the backdrop of this jaw dropping scenery is a picture to behold.

Once in its expansive and stylish interior, you’ll find ten magnificent suites. Natural light floods the interior of this ship and your private suite is no exception, thanks to panoramic doors pulling you into the phenomenal scenery that floats by.  Be sure to further explore the natural wonders around you on your private balcony, which are a welcome feature of each suite.

On board you’ll experience delicious Vietnamese cuisine at the restaurant and bar, where you’ll be surrounded by 180-degree windows, offering perfect views of the bay.

Throughout the ship you’ll notice a splendid blend of Asian-Vietnamese design and local artisans decorate Ylang’s interior with hand-crafted paintings.

During the day, make the most of the invigorating activities on offer from kayaking to cycling and hiking through Cat Ba Island National Park. There is also a strong focus on wellness with activities on board ranging from yoga to early morning Tai Chi lessons on the upper deck.

After an active day on the water, relax in the Ylang spa, where you can indulge in a variety of treatments or make use of the sauna. For some downtime later in the evening head to the library salon or marvel at the stars from on top of the terrace deck.

Overview

Tranquil and classic French colonial style enfolds you at the Anantara for an intimate stay. Scenically positioned on the banks of the Thu Bon River and right in the heart of the city of Hoi An, you are ideally situated to explore the treasures of this charming region.

93 rooms and suites are housed in a two- and three-story white pillared building and come with river or garden views. Rooms are comfortable and gracefully furnished with a host of modern comforts and feature spacious balconies. The airy terrace of the Riverside Café is a great spot for a light lunch as you gaze out across the river, while the Heritage Bar in the courtyard is the place to grab a pre-dinner cocktail. For something really special, take advantage of their ‘dining by design’ service where you can dine al fresco with your own private chef.

Pretty gardens and an outdoor pool are perfect for when you want to simply relax and unwind and there is a spa where you can create a ‘spa journey’ and indulge in a series of tailored treatments. For those who want to get out and explore, you are just a short stroll from the centre of this historic port town.

Overview

Within 35 hectares of tropical gardens set on the pristine shoreline of Ha My beach, sixty one-bedroom villas and forty pool villas make up this exclusive and palatial hotel.

While away your days here next to one of three expansive infinity pools or take a dip in the tranquil Gulf of Tonkin. Then, rejuvenate with an Oriental ritual therapy treatment before dining at one of the three varied and excellent restaurants. The Beach restaurant is particularly recommended in the evening to sample the day’s freshest catch.

If you are after something extra special, the pool villas come with their own private butler. From romantic candle-lit dinners on the beach, to Hoi An’s finest tailors custom fitting your formal attire, to private Vietnamese cooking classes, your butler will ensure you experience every touch of sophisticated decadence during your stay.

Hoi An and its UNESCO World Heritage Site old town are minutes away and a delight to explore the pretty streets steeped in history and culture. Those in search of gifts and souvenirs can shop quality silk, jade, pearls and quality linen from the riverside stores.

Overview

A private enclave surrounded by high granite walls with direct beach access and daily complimentary spa treatments, TIA Wellness Resort is a sophisticated, spoiling and tranquil haven 20km outside Hoi An.

The focus here is on allowing guests to completely switch off, offering a discreet but impeccable service. Its pool, spa and beach villas are minimal and modern in design and feature outdoor courtyards and private plunge pools. Pool villas are perfect for couples or friends while the two-bedroom spa villas and three-bedroom beach villas are ideal for families or groups of friends.

One of the real highlights of TIA Wellness Resort is the spa, set within the lush, tropical gardens. A range of treatments are available, totally tailored to suit you, and there is an outdoor pool for relaxing in before or after.

When it comes to dining, it is all about fresh, vibrant food made with the highest quality ingredients. Enjoy the fusion menu at the Fiving Dining Room as well as grilled seafood and salads at the aptly named ‘Fresh’ poolside restaurant. There is also the option to experience destination dining and enjoy a delicious meal in a special and unique location.

Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most enchanting towns and there is a shuttle bus to take you back and forth for when you want to explore. When you want to simply relax and unwind, indulge in a spa treatment or sit back with a bucket of popcorn and enjoy a film in the hotel’s very own HD cinema.

Overview

A stylish new addition to Ho Chi Minh’s luxury hotel scene, the Hotel Des Arts Saigon is well located a little outside District 1 and within walking distance of the city’s best attractions and buzzing nightlife.

Hotel Des Arts is as much an art museum as it is a top-end boutique hotel and guests can peruse the owner’s personal collection of paintings and antiques that adorn the walls and hallways.

168 rooms and suites all feature chic details, crisp white linen, elegant bathrooms and floor-to-ceiling windows and spectacular city views, but the real gem is the Social Club up on the roof – a buzzy bar and trendy restaurant by the city’s highest infinity pool – exclusive to hotel guests.

Sit back and relax at the sophisticated Cafe des Beaux Arts which evokes plenty of old-world charm and enjoy afternoon tea and cocktails, pluck a book from the shelves, or simply enjoy the live music as the resident pianist tickles the ivories. Vietnamese and Western dishes are prepared in the open kitchen at the Saigon Kitchen Restaurant, where one wall is covered in French Provencal tiles and the others in works of art that represent the harmonious blend of cultures in Vietnam.

There is also a modern gym and sumptuous spa with hammam, Jacuzzi and a solarium for some relaxation after a day exploring the city.

Overview

With its French, colonial style and wonderful location overlooking the Saigon Opera House, the Park Hyatt is one of the city’s most iconic and elegant hotels.

Its 245 rooms and suites are sophisticated in design with plenty of handcrafted details such as custom designed rugs, fine linens and huge windows with white wooden shutters that fill the space with natural light. Many rooms come with private terraces that look out over the lush gardens and outdoor pool and they all feature mini iPads and Nespresso coffee machines for added comfort.

Square One offers authentic Vietnamese cuisine which you can see being cooking in the integrated show kitchens. On balmy evenings, guests can
choose to dine on the terrace surrounded by twinkling lights. Opera is a more casual trattoria-style restaurant serving a range of mouthwatering pasta dishes and pizza fresh from the wood-fired oven. There is a also a pastry boutique offering delicious home-made delicacies and a bar and lounge serving some of the best cocktails in Ho Chi Minh.

With some of the city’s landmark sights such as the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica and the Reunification Palace just a short stroll away, you’re ideally situated to explore this buzzing capital. Alternatively, relaxing and unwinding has never been easier with a fantastic pool and tranquil spa offering treatments inspired by the herbs, grains and fruits of the Mekong Delta.

Overview

Step into complete decadence at this soaring hotel where luxury becomes an art form. The Reverie Saigon commands the top floors of the multi-purpose Times Square Building in the heart of the central business district, with sweeping views of Ho Chi Minh wherever you look.

Crafted to absolute indulgence by Italian interior designers, the style here is more Venetian than Vietnamese. Opulence drips from every corner, from the gilt mirrors and velvet curtains of the rooms and the elaborate chandeliers in the fine dining restaurants, to the heli-pad and fleet of Rolls Royces awaiting your arrival. Sophisticated but fun is what guests can expect from this very unique hotel, with design touches and an attention to detail that cannot fail to impress.

The Royal Pavilion with its jade, vermilion and gold colour scheme is an elegant restaurant serving mouthwatering Cantonese cuisine. R&J, named after Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, features wall-to-wall mosaics and offers a tempting array of Italian dishes. Heading up the kitchen in The Long Bar is a pizza chef from Napoli who works to family recipes passed down through the generations. There is also a gelato bar offering over 30 flavours including Asian specialties such as soursop, purple sticky rice and salted caramel cashew.

When you’re not out exploring the city, relax and unwind at The Reverie’s spa, spread over two floors and featuring treatment rooms, a 24-hour fitness centre and outdoor pool.

Overview

Embark on a journey of luxury and discovery aboard one of Aqua Expeditions’ splendid vessels, as it cruises the enchanting waters of the cross-border Mekong River. Glide through the heart of Cambodia and Vietnam in unparalleled style, where every detail has been meticulously designed to offer a supreme travel experience.

Relax by the plunge pool, where you can cool off with a refreshing dip, or retreat to the indoor lounge area. From here, watch the ever-changing scenery of river life unfold before your eyes. Your suite is a sanctuary of comfort and elegance. Each air-conditioned haven features a king bed, a flat-screen TV and a cosy sitting area. Some suites boast private balconies with plush daybeds and expansive panoramic windows, offering stunning views of the river. For those without balconies, fear not – the spacious interiors with daybeds and sweeping vistas ensure you never miss a moment of the majestic landscape. Families will find convenience and privacy in the four pairs of interconnecting suites.

Indulgence continues with two serene spa treatment rooms, a tranquil library and private cabanas that dot the area around the plunge pool, inviting you to unwind and soak up the serene atmosphere. Culinary delights await in the form of exquisite dishes crafted by Michelin-starred Chef David Thompson, blending the vibrant flavours of Khmer and Vietnamese cuisines. Savuor the freshest catch-of-the-day and locally sourced produce, expertly transformed into gourmet masterpieces.

Adventures abound with a variety of excursions led by knowledgeable English-speaking guides. Discover the lush jungles on a thrilling trek, cycle along the riverbanks for a closer look at the stunning scenery, or immerse yourself in the rich culture of local villages. Each shore excursion offers a unique glimpse into life along the Mekong.

Overview

Named after the Indian Emperor Shah Jahan, this vessel evokes strong a British Raj colonial aesthetic with no expense spared on its design.

Of the 26 cabins aboard the Jahan, you’ll find a variety of guest rooms and suites. These start from the 30sqm Superior Staterooms, which come with large outdoor balconies and queen-sized beds and move up to the 36sqm signature staterooms, with their wooden poster beds and thoughtful details such as treasure chests to store your belongings.

The three decks of the Jahan are resplendent with a host of amenities. Dine al-fresco on the terrace deck with the Mekong as your backdrop or put your feet up in the elegant boutique lounge, The Raj of India. The best way to while away the days drifting down river, however, is to take a seat on one of the comfy colonial sofas of the East India Club, the hotel bar where you can enjoy a refreshing drink whilst savouring the views of the setting sun.

Overview

The Le Royal has been the most glamorous place to stay in Phnom Penh since its opening in 1929. Set just off a tree-lined avenue in the heart of this re-emerging city, the hotel is a grand oasis, with a warm welcome awaiting you.

Colonial in style and impossibly elegant, 170 rooms suites are a distinguished blend of Khmer, French and art deco architecture. The polished wooden floors, overhead fans and white linen are reminiscent of a bygone era with balconies overlooking the tropical garden or to the wonderful central swimming pool a perfect finishing touch.

A choice of dining options, the favourite and finest restaurant in Phnom Penh is Restaurant Le Royal which serves Royal Cambodian and modern French cuisine. The iconic Elephant Bar is something of an institution in its own right and the place for an afternoon tea that blends into an extended happy hour.

Overview

The Rosewood Phnom Penh takes up residence in the top 14 floors of the Vattanac Capital Tower, Phnom Penh’s most known modern structure and a symbol of the new Cambodia, soaring some 188 metres above the heart of the city.

Throughout the property you’ll find the hotel’s curated art collection, echoing the concept of life as a living canvas. Rosewood Phnom Penh also collaborates with the country’s most influential up-and-coming artists to showcase some of Cambodia’s most exciting contemporary artworks within its gallery.

The 175 rooms, including 37 suites, all open up to incredible views of the Mekong River. Interiors blend traditional refinement with sophisticated technology to create comfortable, residential-style living spaces. Stay in the expansive manor suite, with its airy foyer and elegant living room, or enjoy the urban retreat of the norodom house suite.

There are five distinct dining venues, ranging from casual to fine dining. Here you’ll indulge in a range of cuisines including Cambodian, French and Japanese. Crowning it all is one of the most spectacular sky bars and entertainment space in the city, if not the region. Back inside, take a dip in the property’s refreshing pool or relax in the Sense spa, where you’ll find treatments inspired by traditional healing herbs and techniques to restore and revitalise the body and mind.

Overview

Set within the charming French Quarter of Siem Reap, in close distance to the Old Market area, Shinta Mani Angkor promises a tranquil escape of complete sophistication. This elegant establishment, with a strong focus on responsible tourism, also allows guests to contribute to the local community through the Shinta Mani Foundation – a percentage of your daily room rate goes towards funding an array of instrumental projects.

With just 39 guestrooms, carefully curated by Bangkok-based designer, Bill Bensley, you’re guaranteed warm, personalised service of the highest quality. Inspired by Khmer culture, the polished guestrooms feature inlaid ceiling artwork, and black and white colour schemes are enhanced by orange elements.

Centred around an outdoor pool, encircled by cabanas and a tropical garden, Shinta Mani Angkor provides a most serene base from which to explore the temples of Angkor Wat. After a day of sightseeing, guests can reflect in the incredibly serene spa while indulging in a therapeutic treatment, or the coolness of the library or art gallery. Spirits can also be replenished at the on-site restaurant, Kroya, serving local and international dishes. Further refreshment can be enjoyed at the poolside bar, with a menu of tempting cocktails, or the refined Bensley’s Bar, overlooking a courtyard.

Overview

Away from the bustle of Siem Reap, yet still just minutes from the temples of Angkor.

And indeed it does appear as a traditional Cambodian village on first sight, but you’ll soon notice intricate design touches and modern luxuries between the rusticity.

There are 45 private stilted and thatched villas, each built in a traditional style with carefully considered contemporary touches, with extensive use of reclaimed wood, expansive terraces, handpicked furniture and wonderfully spacious bathrooms with egg-shaped baths carved from local stone. 20 of the villas have their own outdoor plunge pools.

Two restaurants lie in the village, Hang Bay, which serves a fusion of cultural cuisine, and Bay Phsar, which has the feel of a local market and is the venue to try vibrant Cambodian flavours created using freshly picked ingredients including herbs from the organic garden and rice straight from the surrounding paddies.

One of the bars sits alongside the scenic 50m infinity pool but our favourite is the cigar and cocktail lounge, housed within a reconstructed century-old farmhouse that has shelves bursting with vintage liqueurs, gin and whisky, surely one of the coolest bars in Southeast Asia.

End a day of temple exploration at the spa, an ancient looking temple offering age-old healing techniques and beauty recipes using indigenous ingredients.

Aside from temples, Phum Baitang offers a range of activities, including a kids’ club, private dining experiences and cooking classes, cultural excursions, trips to Tonle Sap and vintage jeep drives..

Overview

An elegant hideaway located close to the 12th century UNESCO ruins of Angkor in the heart of Siem Reap.

With Khmer-inspired contemporary architecture and design touches, the Park Hyatt is a tranquil urban oasis, with cool, crisp white colonnades leading to the central swimming pool and ancient banyan tree in the main courtyard.

There are 108 rooms and suites with custom-made furniture dress and modern luxuries. Some feature courtyard or downtown views plus a separate living room and an indulgent sunken bathtub for two. For further luxury, opt for a suite for your own private outdoor patio, plunge pool, balcony or sun garden.

The Dining Room is elegant with black and white marble walls and floors, a cosy venue for intimate dining, while The Living Room bar lounge is a chic place for a cocktail. For comfort food, freshly baked goods and home-made ice cream, head to the Glasshouse Deli.

Overview

Together with its great location in a peaceful corner on a confluence of the Nam Khan and Mekong rivers, set beside the Wat Xiengthong Temple, in the heart of Luang Prabang’s historic centre, the boutique hotel Victoria Xiengthong Palace is both ideally located and a stylish base to explore this city.

Converted from one of the last residences of the Royalty of Laos, the 26 rooms and suites are steeped with history and grandeur without compromising on modern comforts. Most of them have balconies or terraces too.

‘Kitchen by the Mekong’ offers a fusion of carefully crafted Laotian and European cuisine, and meals can be taken in the gardens with atmospheric views overlooking the nearby Wat and the Mekong. Sink into the relaxing spirit of the locale with a whole menu of treatments at the hotel’s Ayu Spa.

Overview

The main residence and five white colonial pavilions house twenty luxury pioneer suites and four explorer suites. Gracefully furnished with polished wood floors, four poster beds and open terraces make the Luang Say Residence a relaxing and homely choice for your time in Luang Prabang.

The library and lounge exhibit a selection of antique literature and original artefacts offering insight into Laotian and European history. From the lounge enjoy a stroll through a grapevine covered pergola to the tranquil pool and tropical gardens.

The dining room and airy veranda of La Belle Epoque overlook the gardens where white bougainvillea, hibiscus and lantanas mingle with soaring palms. Much of the menu features produce from Luang Say Residence’s own organic garden.

The hotel is a 10-minute drive away from downtown Luang Prabang.

Overview

With pool, garden or mountain views, La Residence Phou Vao’s 34 spacious, zen-style suites are elegantly but simply furnished with polished rosewood and fresh linens. All suites offer a double bedroom, separate living area and a very high and attentive level of service throughout.

The freshwater infinity swimming pool drops dramatically over a cliff edge overlooking the valley below with gold pagodas and shrines scattered across the hillside and views across to Luang Prabang (the hotel is 2 kilometres from the city centre).

Set in lush gardens guests will enjoy the fragrance of flourishing bougainvillea, papyrus and frangipani trees. Meals can be taken al fresco in the gardens lit by the glow of lanterns and candles in the evening, or dine inside in sophisticated comfort on a blend of inventive Lao and French cuisine.