The Caravelle belongs to the group of hotels that were meaningful during the American War. The others are the Continental and the Rex. Two buildings are now part of the complex: the oldest is a 10-story structure, and the newest, completed in 1998, soars to 24 floors. It has a definite Art Deco style to it, especially the façade. It is rated a five-star accommodation, so we needed to find out what the hoopla was all about. We actually visited the Caravelle twice. Our first full day in Saigon, we walked down Lam Son Square by the Opera House, and there was the hotel in one of the most convenient locations of District 1. As you walk in, you immediately feel transported to a Western atmosphere: marble floors, towering columns, and a uniformed staff all looking very efficient and busy. We had a look at their gift shop, which stocks and displays lovely examples of the best crafts Vietnam has to offer. Most of the items are reasonably priced; some are outrageous. After a round-trip, during which I had to examine most pieces very closely, I had made several mental notes that served me well during my shopping hours.
The next visit to the Caravelle was to take advantage of the view from their Saigon Saigon Bar, reputed to be one of the city’s hottest night spots. Live music and panoramic views will hold you to your seat for a long time. On the ninth floor, the open-air bar is a terrace with tables that are a bit too close together for comfort. It’s hard to try to get comfortable without hitting anyone close by.
The band was playing as we walked in; the light were dimmed just enough so one could see across one’s table. The leading female singer was cooing into the mike, and it seemed she had been taught well. The music was all too familiar and American, as expected. Saigon Saigon is also a very luxurious watering hole, thus you can expect to wet your lips on whatever it is your heart desires. We took our seats right next to the edge of the terrace, and, heavens, what a view. See picture below. It seemed everything was hopping both upstairs and on the streets. Directly across was a huge NOKIA double sign that seemed to go all the way around the corner of the building. Then I spotted a new name, the Oscar Hotel. Cars competed with motorbikes on the streets with the usual jams, daring one another to the next intersection.
It was lovely and somewhat sad at the same time, as the evening marked the end of an incredible vacation that turned our lives upside down. As I sipped slowly on my Diet Coke, I was left to wonder when and how I’d manage to come back to Saigon. The bar was the perfect place to perch oneself and say goodbye.