Hotel Majestic

Huge views and smart interiors at this temple to French colonialism on the banks of the Saigon River

A grand hotel, built by the French in 1925, which towers above the Saigon River as it carves through one of Indochina’s most dynamic cities. Rooftop bars and restaurants give stupendous views, so summon a lift and fly to the sky for a cocktail or two as the sun sets; you’ll be joined by the great and the good of Saigon.

Down on the ground you step into a smart golden marble hall where vases of erupting white flowers stand on elegant tables and a central stained glass dome shimmers in red, white and blue. You get all the trimmings of a big hotel: a piano lounge for afternoon tea, a palm-fringed courtyard with swimming pool and smartly-dressed porters to carry your luggage. Graceful rooms and suites come in different shapes and sizes, some with city views, others overlooking the river. Saigon – vibrant, pacy, utterly indomitable – waits for your eyes to acknowledge its beauty. The Opera House, Post Office, Government buildings and Cathedral all help you oblige.

Highs

• The roof terrace bars are spectacular
• Keep cool in a hot city at the first-floor courtyard swimming pool
• Wonderfully ornate arched windows wrap around the façade
• Fancy bathrooms come in black and gold marble

Lows

• Views from some rooms offer uninspiring cityscapes
• Buffet breakfasts are a bit of a bun fight if you get up early