Park Hyatt Saigon

Drawing on tradition (with a flair!), the hotel has a collection of atmospheric restaurants and elegant lounges. Decorated with vibrant elephant murals, Square 1 serves gourmet meals like wok-fried lobster while the art-bedecked bar has a range of signature drinks enjoyed over live music. Enjoy elegant afternoon teas, Italian cuisine at the trattoria-like Opera and sunny lunches under ample umbrellas on the terrace. Luxuriate with lotus oil massages at the Xuan Spa and lose a few hours at the secluded pool.

Like snapshots of a French boudoir, the rooms and suites are coloured in soft creams, embroidered rugs and ornate moulded furnishings. White shuttered windows let in plenty of light, while some rooms also have a cosy balcony. Ivory-tiled bathrooms have wooden vanities, rain showers and Cochine lotions. The suites all have a living room with blush couches and a large TV unit. Decorated with rich oil paintings, the grandest offering is the Presidential Suite, which comes with a private study, walk-in closet, dining room and kitchen.

A landmark of its own, the Park Hyatt is close to Saigon's many historic gems. Stroll the lanes to visit Notre Dame Cathedral and the Reunification Palace. See the Requiem Photographic Exhibition at the War Remnant Museum, which documents a tragic past and learn about the local history at the Ho Chi Minh City Museum. While it may sound unassuming, the Central Post Office was built by Gustave Eiffel and is worth a peek! Head down the older streets to find ornate temples and get lost in the giant marketplaces.