Hue, Vietnam

Originally a governor’s villa, Azerai La Residence is now a 122-room art-deco style resort, sitting on the banks of the Perfume River overlooking Hue’s Imperial City. The charmingly designed rooms, ten of which are in the original building and the remaining in the newer wings, offer either river or garden views and all come with a spacious balcony or terrace. 

Set in two-and-a-half hectares, the hotel gardens stretch down to the rivers edge and a large salt-water swimming pool takes pride of place with sun loungers overlooking the water and a poolside bar. The views can also be enjoyed whilst dining al fresco at the resort’s brasserie, serving traditional Vietnamese cuisine, alongside some Western dishes. For those looking for a spot of relaxation the spa menu features a full range of treatments, drawing on ancient healing techniques.