The names of very few hotels evoke such fond, romantic images, and indeed such anticipation, as The Caravelle. Its breezy sound recalls its inspiration: the Iberian caravelas, or as the French called them, caravelles fast, light 15th-century sailing ships that explored the world in search of foreign trade, adventure and new horizons. And perhaps it’s no coincidence that Air France, which held a stake in the original building, and had its offices here since its opening, had also recently begun operating a fancy new jet airliner of the same name.

The Caravelle has been at the center of Saigon society since the hotel was opened in 1959. In 1998, an elegant 24-storey tower was built as a complement to the original 10-storey building. With commanding views of the city and an enviable location opposite the Opera House, the landmark hotel is at the heart of a city once renown as the Pearl of the Orient. Caravelle was home to many members of the international press corps during the Vietnam War, a time when Saigon (now known universally as Ho Chi Minh City) was the center of extraordinary upheaval and turmoil.

Nowadays, the hotel, Caravelle Saigon with its signature services is still the iconic landmark status in the heart of Saigon. In order to offer the guests with the best experience while staying in Saigon as part of its commitments, Caravelle has been taking a top-to-toe enhancement programme to upgrade the property to an upscale and luxurious hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.