G O U R M E T T R AV E L L E R
Caravelle Saigon
The gift that keeps on giving The Caravelle is celebrating 60 years of opening its doors to Saigon locals, loyal businesspersons and lavish travellers. In its 6-decade history, guests, staff and residents alike have witnessed the hotel evolve remarkably while never neglecting to honour the city’s rich past.
W
ith news correspondents utilising the panoramic views to update the world on the war’s daily happenings and curious spectators using the space as both a refuge and opportunity to observe the ground-level horrors, Saigon Saigon, the hotel’s rooftop bar, was a hub of communication during the Vietnam war. Today the sepia photographs, retro interior and mesmerising city views honour this rich history while live bands and impressive cocktail menus-reflect Saigon’s metamorphosis into a cosmopolitan and thriving city.
80 epicurevietnam
After a brief stint of government led ownership under the name of ‘Doc Lap’, Caravelle Hotel returned to its original name and underwent an immense expansion project in the late ‘90’s which saw the establishment become the 335 room, five-star hotel we see today. The seamless work of architects and designers ensured that the new Caravelle was a perfect blend of modernity and antiquity, allowing the space to reflect the changing landscape of Saigon while maintaining the charm which secured its initial success.