Villa Song, near Saigon - Explore & Book

"Sometimes you just need to bask by a pool, gorge on grilled fish with rice noodles, and sleep in one of Asia’s comfiest beds. Enter Villa Song, an elegant hotel blessed with warm hospitality and a languid riverside location, just a quick taxi ride from the excitements of the city. This is a white-wedding cake of a French colonial mansion, converted in style with every luxury thrown in. The 23 bedrooms are near perfect, especially those with balconies and Saigon River views. All are different, but marks of luxury include polished dark-wood floors and espresso machines, plus handsome bathrooms and cooling air-con. Atmospheric suppers are taken amid twinkling lights and lavish breakfasts start the day off just right. Later, ask room service to bring you a cocktail; charming staff go out of their way to care for you. For a change of scene, it’s a walk or short drive to the many restaurants of this ex-pat area. As for the saltwater pool - serene and surrounded by magnolias - it’s long and perfect for laps. A comforting oasis just a stone’s throw from the city. Highs A dazzling white French colonial style mansion with a beautiful restaurant overlooking the river The tranquil location - bliss to relax by the pool after the city’s motorbike madness Even the smallest rooms are generously sized and very elegant Popular with couples and families alike Lows The out-of-town surrounds are somewhat sterile and it's a 20-minute taxi to the centre The restaurant is quite expensive and not all the dishes hit the mark; it’s a long walk (or short taxi ride) to local eateries Noisy air-con in some rooms, but fans are whisper-quiet The river suffers from debris in the rainy season Three floors and no lift" - Ben Reed