A Luxury Vietnam and Cambodia Honeymoon

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

Experience the turquoise waters of Halong Bay all to yourselves on the wonderfully private Bhaya Legend I. Comprising of one cabin for just the two of you, this junk cruise is the ideal choice for a romantic and personalised getaway around Vietnam’s limestone islets. Bhaya Legend invites you to join the captain in crafting your very own itinerary. Feel like a guided kayaking expedition through a karst tunnel or perhaps some island trekking? We’ll make it happen. Or enjoy a lazy morning on a hidden beach all to yourself. The choice is yours.

The fantastic team here will ensure your stay is entirely bespoke, while hand-crafted hardwood furnishings and sweeping bay views from the sundeck make the journey a delight. When you’re not relaxing on board, take to the calm, azure Gulf of Tonkin for activities such as swimming, kayaking and diving to create lasting, dreamy memories.

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

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

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

Nestled on the Cồn Ba Xã Islet in Hoi An, Namia River Retreat is thoughtfully crafted with private pool villas, locally inspired dining experiences and stunning pools with Thu Bon River views. Stay in one of the Nipa villas with its Nipa palm views and sunken bath tub, or perhaps the honeymoon villa and its private spa and sauna is what calls to you. A warm and elegant, natural colour palette creates welcoming spaces designed for relaxation and rejuvenation, with plenty of natural lights and beautiful decor touches.

For dining, enjoy Vietnamese and international cuisine at the Mia Merchant restaurant or indulge in seafood dishes at the Nam Eatery. The chef’s teams offer a combination of traditional food and fragrant spices from the merchants of East and West, using carefully-sourced local ingredients.

Rejuvenate yourself during your stay with a visit to the Lumina spa, which features eight herbal steam rooms and two traditional apothecaries.

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

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

This luxurious boutique lodge is a serene hideaway set beside the Siem Reap River. Enclosed by tropical trees, this delightful art-deco haven, with a soothing white façade is ringed by a beautiful garden and centred around two turquoise swimming pools. Giving back to the local community is critical to this hotel’s operations, and it does so through the founding, funding and organising of various projects and NGOs.

There are 36 rooms to choose from, offering either a balcony or direct garden and pool access. Contemporary furnishings, muted tones with the occasional bright pop of colour, and deluxe fabrics make each spacious room and suite a tranquil oasis in which to relax in the utmost comfort.

Guests can revive their spirits at the hotel’s on-site restaurant, serving both local and international dishes. Further rejuvenation can be sought at the idyllic spa after a day of venturing on tuk-tuks into town and exploring the magnificent Angkor Wat temples.