“Welcome to Sofitel Saigon Plaza, where all modern travelers can discover Saigon through the French lens”. Mario Mendis’ words could not be more true. He is the hotel manager of one of Ho Chi Minh’s most established locations, Sofitel Saigon Plaza. From its location — which is only a few steps away from some of the city’s landmarks — to its luxurious amenities within its walls, guests will have just about everything at their fingertips. 

In Ho Chi Minh’s renowned Le Duan Boulevard stands Sofitel Saigon Plaza. It is part of the famous Accor branch, dedicated to indulging in modern luxury through the French ‘art de vivre’. From locations in Europe, Africa and Asia, it is all about living the French way. At Sofitel Saigon Plaza, guests can expect the ultimate fusion between French opulence and Vietnamese culture. The grand structure houses 286 rooms in which there is only one Imperial Suite and ten prestigious suites. Even after all that, it still has space to include a rooftop pool, a lavish breakfast buffet, several restaurants, and a fitness centre. 

Since the 90s, Sofitel Saigon Plaza has been keeping up with Ho Chi Minh’s tourism scene. It had renovations done to the rooms in 2012 and further updates done to its lobby and meeting rooms in 2017. Nevertheless, the establishments exudes inspiration from foreign influences. At the top of the list of course is its French connections — a nudge to its mother company, Accor. Next is China, another former colonial member which left a mark in Vietnam’s historical landscape. The decor, services and dining experiences take notes from these two powers whilst still leaving room for guests to take advantage of the hectic city that is Ho Chi Minh. 

Whether you refer to the city as Ho Chi Minh or Saigon, the experience is the same. It is the largest — and infamously the most chaotic — city in Vietnam. Walking through the streets, it seems as though a million things are happening at once. Motorbikes, cars and pedestrians blend into a choreographed dance as street stands and markets populate the city’s lanes. Cathedrals, temples, tunnels and museums are just some of the activities which visitors are bound to include in their itinerary. Whilst the chaos of Ho Chi Minh follows everyone down even the smallest of alleys, Sofitel Saigon Plaza is located within a much calmer street, distinguishing it to the more up-scale lifestyle of the city. 

From the outside, the building itself remains unassuming. Bar the winding side street which elegantly brings guests from the main road to the front of the lobby, it remains subtle. Upon entering, however, the atmosphere changes drastically. The ceilings soar over the entrance, displaying the seating and reception area in grandeur. There is also a single wide staircase to the left which leads guests directly to the restaurants on the second floor. 

As the staff swiftly whisk guests to their room, it is hard not to admire the clean and elegant interiors. From the dark carpets to the light details, the ensemble compliments the classy atmosphere of the hotel. There are a variety of rooms which guests can choose from. Of course, the Imperial Suite is the creme de la creme, providing the opulent traveller with several bedrooms, a dining area, living room and overwhelming views of the city. However, the categories below the Imperial Suite don’t shy away from spacious rooms with exquisite taste.

Even the smaller rooms are completed with a seating area — purposefully placed to face the large glass windows for the guests’ viewing pleasure — and carpet runners which, lets face it, makes anyone feel that much more important. The bathrooms are sleek and simple, perfectly fitting in with the hotel’s no-fuss style. That remains true throughout the experience at Sofitel Saigon Plaza. Expect for when it comes to the food, which is an affair in itself.

The Mezz Restaurant is where all the magic happens. ‘Breakfast is the most important meal of the day’ has never been more true at this establishment. The spread includes dishes which many may not have even thought to eat for breakfast. From Indian cuisine in one corner to a chocolate fountain and egg station in the other, it can only be described as the mother of all buffets. Of course, there is Western-style dishes as well as Asian dishes to please every taste pallet. It may be a hard task, but guests should try to not indulge in the quasi-infinite choices displayed out in front of them. Especially if they have a lunchtime reservation at the hotel’s other restaurant, Le 17 Bistro.

The restaurant itself is named after the hotel’s iconic address on 17 Le Duan Boulevard. The establishment is dedicated to reminding guests why the world fell in love with French cuisine in the first place. From a business set lunch in the afternoon to an ‘a la carte’ menu for dinner, Le 17 Bistro makes sure that the guest’s dining needs are met. Whilst the menu continuously changes based on the chefs creative flair and seasonal products, here is just a sneak peek at what guests can expect: a flavorful exotic mushroom soup with crunchy croutons, tender beef cheek with truffle mashed potatoes and a cream cheese parfait to top it all up. 

When traveling to a city as hectic as Ho Chi Minh, it is soothing to know that your accommodation can act as your temporary safe haven. From the prestigious boulevard on which it is located to the welcoming service provided by the staff, Sofitel Saigon Plaza enables guests to relax whilst simultaneously taking advantage of the authentic culture. The good location, impressive dining options (especially the breakfast buffet) and spacious rooms makes the hotel a perfect hub for any type of traveler — whether for business or leisure.