Perhaps I was spoilt after spending 2 weeks prior to our stay at the Caravelle in some very luxurious hotels in Hong Kong and Vietnam, however I was a little disappointed with this hotel. The location was fantastic, very central, within walking distance to some really nice restaurants and bars, and we had some nice views of Ho Chi Minh City. On arrival we were greeted with the same level of genuine warmth as seems to be standard across Vietnam however this slipped once we had an issue with the room.

We had paid to stay in a deluxe river view room, however when we got to our room there was no sign of the river, we questioned this and were then moved to another room which was clearly a standard double room with the river no where in sight. Again, we queried this and were told that we’d have to pay for an upgrade to go back to the room we were originally checked into, the girl said they had originally upgraded us to this deluxe room but didn’t bother to tell us! When we showed her that we were supposed to be staying in a deluxe room with a river view and refused to pay more for what we had already paid for, she became clearly annoyed and started typing aggressively and shouting very loudly at her colleague who had to move our luggage again, I don't speak Vietnamese but I can only imagine what was being said by the tone of her voice and the expression on her face!

All this aside, the hotel is nice but not worthy of its 5 start status, I get the feeling its living off its past history a bit, the Saigon Saigon Bar is also overated. The Sheraton hotel is right behind the Caravelle and I couldn’t help but wish we were staying there instead.

A luxury hotel, priced reasonably in an excellent location in Saigon. Opposite the Opera House and within walking distance of the Post Office and Cathedral. Service was excellent, staff always tried their hardest and were polite and courteous. The bedrooms are 5* with comfortable beds. Interconnecting rooms are available for those with children. The swimming pool get shady in the afternoon and a cool/cold breeze picked up as the afternoon went on (though you don't come to Saigon to lie by a pool). Like all of Saigon the traffic (mainly scooters) is very heavy all the time and driving is done with the hand on the horn, so requesting a room on a higher floor will give you a quieter night. If you don't get a rate inclusive of breakfast (and the breakfast is very good) try the Mojo a happening cafe around the corner from The Caravelle owned by the Sheraton but not accessible from the Sheraton.

Great location. Good solid 5 star performer. Saigon Saigon Bar a little overrated but the hotel itself is very good. Great hotel for a tourist - especially a first time tourist to Ho Chi Minh City

Stayed in the Caravelle for four nights early in March. We had a signature room on the Club Floor. The room was great. Large very clean and nice bathroom. Not much character but I guess that's fairly standard for this type of hotel.

The Club lounge was excellent (and worth the extra). Very nicely furnished with lovely complimentary canapes and drinks in the evening and a great breakfast in the morning.

The service is this hotel is quite amazing. When I rang and asked for ice (all 3 times) it was there in under 2 minutes!!! In fact all room service was incredibly prompt. Whether this was just on the Club Floor I don't know..... but if you like speedy service then this is the place to stay.

The pool was nice but quite small and quite sheltered..so if you are a sun-worshipper then probably not the best pool for you. Great gym and good spa.