Stained-glass panels radiate coloured light to brighten up the interior and give the room character. Wine and dine in elegant surrounds at the Serenade Restaurant.

 

Having witnessed and withstood the various periods of Vietnam’s turbulent history, Hotel Majestic Saigon is undoubtedly one of Ho Chi Minh City’s famous landmarks. Comprising 175 rooms, six restaurants and bars, this art deco structure sits regally in the heart of the pulsating city, on the picturesque riverside corner of Dong Khoi Street. Much of its 83-year-old façade has been retained, as can be seen from the sweeping arches of the lobby and the private balconies of each room, enabling guests to take in the bustling street life of the city below.

 

Walking through the wrought-iron entry doors, guests are greeted by an expansive lobby with Renaissance style, artistic clouds adorning the ceilings, chandeliers, lush carpets, colonial-style chairs and a grand winding staircase to match the impressive interior. The art deco theme continues into the rooms. Elegantly appointed interiors are fitted with old-fashioned telephones and period furniture, although the stained-glass panels fitted into the wall above the bed and encasing the vanity are easily the main features. Intricately designed in various colours, these panels bring a touch of sophistication to the rooms, transporting guests back to the opulence of the roaring Jazz Era.

 

Not everything at Hotel Majestic Saigon is a page from the past though. Plush, king-sized beds and crisp sheets ensure a good night’s sleep, while a generous bathtub invites guests to luxuriate in a long, aromatic soak. Contemporary technology in the form of flat-screen satellite televisions adorn the rooms. High-speed Internet access has also been incorporated for easy connectivity to the net.

 

Recreationally, the charming courtyard pool area is a delightful place to lounge with a cocktail in hand... far from the Madding Crowd. Those folks fancying a quick workout can head to the well-equipped fitness centre, while the spa is just the place to soothe tired muscles before heading back into the hustle and bustle of the city.

 

Hotel Majestic Saigon offers a wide variety of dining options to tempt the taste buds. There is the Cyclo Café, where a delicious Vietnamese buffet spread awaits, while Serenade Restaurant offers fine European cuisine. The all-day dining, al fresco Breeze Sky Bar features chargrilled barbecued specialties along with an unhindered view of the Saigon River. Those folks craving for a refreshing drink can head to the M-Bar situated on the rooftop, or the timeless Catinat Lounge with its repertoire of classic cocktails and live piano tunes.

 

In line with preserving the old world charm of Hotel Majestic Saigon, the establishment also actively does its part in protecting the city’s environment—now rapidly polluted due to its burgeoning industries. Running an operation as extensive as Hotel Majestic Saigon tends to incur hefty costs, yet the establishment has managed to significantly cut down expenses. Guests are invited to play a part with signs tactfully placed throughout the room as gentle reminders to save water and electricity, whilst staff members are constantly updated on the various means to cut down on chemical and power usage. The hotel’s concerted efforts have garnered a slew of green awards, the most recent being the Asean Green award in 2008.

 

Location-wise, the hotel is hard to beat. The world-famous Ben Thanh Market—where antique furniture, silks, and lacquerware are sold—is within walking distance, while the Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral and Reunification Palace are all also a stone's throw away. Exploring the city’s busy network of streets and sights will surely be an adventure, and the best place to set foot from must surely be Hotel Majestic Saigon.