Originated from a 1930-built Art Deco mansion, Azerai La Residence is an enchanting place to stay in Hue. The hotel is just a stone’s throw away from Hue Citadel, making it an ideal base to explore the one-time capital of Vietnam.
Boasting an unrivaled location on the southern bank of Huong River, Azerai La Residence is the second project of Adrian Zecha – the founder of Aman Resorts – in Vietnam. This 122-room hotel draws inspiration from the villa of Résidence supérieure (governor) which was built in the 1930s. After an extensive yet meticulous renovation, the hotel reopened in February 2019.
Since then, Azerai La Residence has become a destination in itself. The hotel has been placed in “World’s Greatest Places 2019” by TIME, featured alongside 43 unique lodges. It has also been crowned as one of Asia’s 10 best hotels by readers of Condé Nast Traveler for two consecutive years.
The Architecture
The first thing that captured my attention is the Art Deco mansion standing at the core of the premise. With distinctive curved facade, long horizontal lines, railings, and porthole windows, it evokes the image of an ocean liner in the 1930s. Inside, the building preserves much of its original style and details. It features horizontal grooves and lines on the wall and ceiling, as well as chrome-plated hardware.
The same nautical modern architecture that makes the villa so fascinating is repeated in the two wings. Constructed in the 2000s, they are contemporary in design. Yet many elements reflect the aesthetic of the Art Deco period. Together with the mansion, these wings embrace an expansive tropical garden and a large salt-water pool.
The Room
After passing hallways decorated with framed pictures of old Hue, we arrived at our room. Though the design is quite modern (especially the shower with terrazzo floor), it’s furnished with elegant dark wood furniture. Additionally, the well-appointed room opens out onto a spacious balcony where I could enjoy the view of the Huong River.
What do I like about Azerai La Residence?
Aside from its charming architecture, the hotel’s proximity to Huong River is a big plus to me. I very much enjoyed my leisure stroll along the riverbank in the early morning. The traditional sweet treat offered by the hotel staff also impressed me. It might be small in size. Yet it’s packed with the subtlety of Hue people.
DISCLAIMER:
This post is written based on my personal experience. It was neither sponsored nor solicited by Azerai La Residence or any third party. All texts and pictures reflect my own opinions. They are provided solely for informational purposes. I will not be liable for any errors or damages by making use of this information.
What a beautiful place! And your photos are superb.
Alison
Thank you, Alison 🙂 That building is a real architectural gem. I’m glad that it’s kept in good shape. Have a nice weekend!
Thanks Len. You too.
What a beautiful hotel, inside and out. The architecture is simply stunning. I hope it can fit my budget when I finally take that trip to Vietnam.
Beautiful architectural photos but that Huong River shot is simply stunning.
Thank you! I got luck that morning. The weather was perfect. Merry Christmas to you 🙂
Merry Christmas and a blessed 2021 as well!