Distinctive facade of Azerai La Residence

Azerai La Residence : An Art Deco Gem in Hue

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.

Resembling an ocean liner
Nautical elements at Azerai La Residence
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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.

Light-filled hallway

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.

On the bank of Huong River
Sweet treat offered by Azerai staff
“Mận” cake – one of the oldest traditional sweets in Hue. It’s made of sticky rice flour, coconut, sesame, and sugar.

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.

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7 thoughts on “Azerai La Residence : An Art Deco Gem in Hue”

  1. Alison and Don – Occupation: being/living/experiencing/travelling In our sixties, with apparently no other authentic option, my husband Don and I sold our apartment and car, sold or gave away all our stuff and set off to discover the world. And ourselves. We started in Italy in 2011 and from there have travelled to Spain, India, Bali, Australia, New Zealand, SE Asia, South America, Egypt, Japan, etc. - you can see the blog archive. We travelled full-time for nearly six years, and then re-established a home in Vancouver. We now travel 2-3 months per year. We are interested in how the world works, how life works, how the creation of experience works, how the mind works. As we travel and both "choose" our course, and at the same time just let it unfold, we discover the "mechanics" of life, the astounding creativity of life, and a continual need to return to trust and presence. Opening the heart, and acceptance of what is, as it is, are keystones for us both. Interests: In no particular order: travel, photography, figure skating (as a fan), acceptance, authenticity, walking/hiking, joy, creativity, being human, adventure, presence, NOW. Same for Don except replace figure skating with Formula One motor racing.
    Alison and Don says:

    What a beautiful place! And your photos are superb.
    Alison

      1. Alison and Don – Occupation: being/living/experiencing/travelling In our sixties, with apparently no other authentic option, my husband Don and I sold our apartment and car, sold or gave away all our stuff and set off to discover the world. And ourselves. We started in Italy in 2011 and from there have travelled to Spain, India, Bali, Australia, New Zealand, SE Asia, South America, Egypt, Japan, etc. - you can see the blog archive. We travelled full-time for nearly six years, and then re-established a home in Vancouver. We now travel 2-3 months per year. We are interested in how the world works, how life works, how the creation of experience works, how the mind works. As we travel and both "choose" our course, and at the same time just let it unfold, we discover the "mechanics" of life, the astounding creativity of life, and a continual need to return to trust and presence. Opening the heart, and acceptance of what is, as it is, are keystones for us both. Interests: In no particular order: travel, photography, figure skating (as a fan), acceptance, authenticity, walking/hiking, joy, creativity, being human, adventure, presence, NOW. Same for Don except replace figure skating with Formula One motor racing.
        Alison and Don says:

        Thanks Len. You too.

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