LOCATION: The Park Hyatt Saigon is on Lam Son Square, steps from the elegant Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral, the historic post office and shopping at Ben Thanh Market. FIRST IMPRESSION: There are times when only a quirky, individual boutique hotel will do, and times when you want the comfort, facilities and slick service of a familiar brand. After a day pounding the sweaty streets of Ho Chi Minh City, I was happy with the latter. With its grand pillars, perfectly turned-out staff and sleek service, the hotel has a distinctly business feel. However, it manages to be welcoming and cosy at the same time. THE FACTS: The 244 rooms, decorated in muted shades of gold and green, are a blend of modern comforts with traditional Vietnamese touches. Our park double room was on the small side but well designed, with a separate white marble bath, walk-in rain shower and plenty of wardrobe space. The hotel also makes an effort to bring a touch of Ho Chi Minh City indoors, with original oil and lacquer paintings hanging in the lobby and hallways, and mounted black-and-white photographs of old Ho Chi Minh City in the bedrooms. The outdoor swimming pool on the third floor is a tranquil spot to cool down and relax after a day touring the city. For those seeking to totally unwind, the stylish Xuan Spa with its seven treatment rooms, an indoor whirlpool, steam room and fitness centre are on hand. WOW: The hotel’s restaurants are what make stand it out from its competitors – the Asian Square One and Italian Opera are both among the top places to eat in the city. A GOOD BASE FOR: The hotel is walking distance to many of the mains sights of Ho Chi Minh City. For clients looking for a little luxury, the hotel can arrange a tour of the city in one of its S-class Mercedes. Tour guides can be arranged to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, an immense network of tunnels where the Vietcong hid from American soldiers during the Vietnam War.HOW MUCH: From £160 per nightsaigon.park.hyatt.com