Location
Villa Song is located on a peaceful, picturesque stretch of the Saigon River about 20 minutes by taxi from downtown in District 2. A taxi downtown will cost around 150K VND.
Review
I’ve long resisted the idea that travellers to Saigon might locate themselves away from its bustling heart. But as the city becomes more dusty, crowded and intense, it’s time to concede that there is a lot to be said for having a sanctuary - staying somewhere serene like Villa Song on the Saigon River in District 2.
Saigon’s District 2 has been the home of well-healed expats since Vietnam opened its doors to foreigners in the early 1990s. In recent years, some of Vietnam’s best restaurants and coolest cafes have opened in the area.
Villa Song opened in 2013 to offer luxury travellers an alternative to the city’s large downtown hotels. And if you’re fearful Saigon’s intensity may overwhelm, or you have expat friends living in District 2, this is a good, if pricey, option.
In the 90s and 2000s, Saigon’s District 2 witnessed a construction boom of ludicrously extravagant mansions intent on attracting wealthy expat types. Abominations abound. You get the sense that in its original incarnation, Villa Song may have been one of them.
But the owners have pulled off a transformation. What was probably a monument to poor taste, is now a tasteful and warm accommodation. It’s impressive.
Villa Song has 23 luxuriously appointed rooms across 3 floors (no lift). Each room is unique and room sizes vary from a poky 21sqm (1 room) to an enormous 105sqm. Most rooms are more than 25sqm and many are much larger.
The decorative style in the rooms is classic and remains consistent across the various sizes and categories.
Some rooms look over the river, others look over the large pool which is at the front of the building.
The spacious common areas are a highlight. Despite the uncommon peacefulness, you'll be reminded you're in Saigon by occasional passing barges on the Saigon River and a view of the city skyline in the distance. You'll end up spending a lot of time in the shaded garden area where the bar and restaurant are located. It’s a particularly picturesque spot in the afternoon.
Villa Song is priced right up with some of Saigon’s most expensive hotels - but it offers a very different experience. Intimacy and tranquility are the drawcards here - in grounds that feel more like a resort.
Just keep in mind that you’ll be 20 minutes from the city centre.
Briefing
Pool, small spa and gym, restaurant, free wifi.
Disclosure
Rusty Compass reviews are always independent. We received no inducement financial or otherwise from Villa Song to publish this listing and review. Nor did the property exercise any editorial influence. We did not stay in Villa Song though we received an invitation.
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