Saigon Domaine Luxury Residences

Set amid lush tropical gardens, the Saigon Domaine sits across the river from the bustling city center. One side of the building is directly on the main road, but the rear part overlooks the river and is hidden away behind thick gardens, adding to the secluded feel. Families and couples are drawn to the property for its quiet island setting, large apartments with full kitchens, and relaxing, intimate vibe. Wooden and tiled floors, paneled walls, and homey seating areas make the lobby elegant and stylish, but maybe not as boutique-y as one might expect of such as property. Apartments are decorated in a mix of colonial and contemporary style, with sturdy wooden furniture, polished dark parquet floors, and a few stylish pops of color. 

The grounds are serene and charming, with tons of tropical plants, and several quiet nooks where guests can sit to chat or enjoy a drink from the lobby bar. Both pools are located in the rear part of the property; the smaller one is tucked away in a separate section across the path from the main one. Both pools are cute and nice for a swim or a lazy morning in the sun -- but the decks around them have older tiles that could use an update. All in all, Saigon Domaine Luxury Residences is a great pick for families and couples who want to be away from the bustling city but close enough to explore the main sights without having to travel long distances.

The hotel is located on Thanh Da, a small island directly northeast of District 1, on the Saigon River. The drive to central HCMC generally takes about 15 minutes, although there can be some traffic during rush hour. There is a supermarket and a couple of restaurants within two of blocks of the property, but little else can be found in the immediate neighborhood. The upside of this location is the relaxing setting and peaceful atmosphere (except for the sometimes loud karaoke bar adjacent to the hotel), but there are no major attractions within walking distance of the property. Tan Son Nhat International Airport is about 30 to 40 minutes away. Those planning to stay out late in town can take an inexpensive cab back to the property. 

Saigon Domaine offers 48 lovely one- to four-bedroom apartments, all equipped with full kitchens and spacious furnished terraces. Hardwood floors, dark wood furniture, and plush couches with light-colored upholstering make for elegant contemporary spaces, while colonial-style pieces of furniture and stylish pops of color add a sophisticated touch. Kitchens feature washer/dryers, microwaves, cooktops, sinks, and full ovens, as well as a few utensils. Those planning to cook larger meals can request more silver and tableware at the front desk. Some kitchen appliances, such as washers and microwaves, could use an update, but the maintenance team helps to keep everything functional. Terraces are furnished with tables, chairs, and loungers, and most offer tranquil river views. Air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, double-glazed windows, DVD players, sound systems, and free Wi-Fi are all standard amenities. Units closest to the adjacent karaoke bar can get some noise at night when windows are left open.

Most guests spend the day exploring HCMC’s tourist attractions, but for those who want to spend a quiet morning or afternoon on-site, the hotel offers a few nice amenities. The fitness center is bright and spacious, with several up-to-date cardio and strength-training machines, as well as free weights. There is a sauna in the locker room, but the hotel lacks a full spa, which is surprising for a property that's billed as five-star. The two pools are tucked away amid lush gardens but look a little tired. Still, they’re pleasant enough for a swim or sunbathing, and one of them has a shallower area suitable for kids. The hotel also offers a kids’ club, playground, small shop with basic items, lobby bar, and three fully equipped meeting rooms. Free breakfast is served daily on a pontoon overlooking the river, and free shuttle service to District 1 is offered several times a day. Free parking and free Wi-Fi are also available.