Victoria Chau Doc Hotel

Right on the river's edge, the pool occupies a quiet corner, fringed by crisp cushioned loungers and hanging umbrellas. Tuck into a range of dishes from Southern Vietnam (and a smattering of European) at the casual restaurant and sip on something refreshing on the brasserie-style bar terrace. The top-floor spa provides a soothing interlude and afterwards, a cuppa while you watch the river flow by. In between outings, there's a colourful lounge where you can relax or play billiards and board games.

Victoria Hotel has 92 rooms, each designed with a nod to Vietnamese tastes. Peachy drapes off-set heavy wooden furnishings and period artwork dons the walls. French doors let in a breeze off the river and the spacious balconies have a private sitting area. En-suite bathrooms are well-sized with marble countertops and sleek showers. The air-conditioned rooms all enjoy a mini bar, coffee/tea facilities and a TV in the lounge. There are just four suites, these are the most spacious option.