An Lam Retreats Saigon

With a view of the dappled Saigon River and tiny boats chugging past, dining on the deck is a favourite. Tuck into a range of Vietnamese dishes from sea bream wrapped in banana leaves to coconut palm hearts tossed with a seafood salad. Hot and sweaty after a morning in the city? The spa obliges with hot stone therapies and a soak-worthy Jacuzzi, and after the hustle and bustle of the markets and sights, there's nothing better than a dip in the pool with the scent of frangipanis wafting by.

Set across three villas, the suites range from tropical and soft, to the more traditional, with bold and bright decor. Each room has a spacious sitting area with wide windows and a private balcony, and the views range from garden to riverfront. Bathrooms are designed in rustic stone and ceramics with a large tub and rain shower, while some rooms have a private pool too. In an ultra secluded setting, there are four stand-alone villas with a plunge pool and stellar views.

If you can drag yourself away from the poolside loungers, head to the glass-walled kitchen for a cooking class with the chef or take a stroll across the grounds - the birdlife is a constant. Journey into Ho Chi Minh City to peruse its steamy, spice-infused markets, discover the fascinating and often tragic history in the Cu Chi Tunnels, and walk the city flat as you take in the remarkable architecture. A little further afield, you'll find the floating markets of the Mekong Delta, which make for a memorable day out.