Staying in a local neighborhood means surrounding yourself with the sights, styles, routines, traditions, and history of a locale. Hotel Indigo Saigon The City, a new boutique lifestyle hotel, tells the stories of the iconic Ba Son area via its details, decor, atmosphere, and experiences, so checking in feels like taking part in a celebration of the city.

Entering the Alleyways

A towering stack of vintage suitcases atop a classic bike at reception greets you upon arrival. Tucked behind this “Bags of Burden” installation are two public computer desks meticulously designed to resemble street barber chairs. This serves as the perfect introduction to how Hotel Indigo Saigon The City infuses iconic elements of the city into every nook and corner of your stay.

Past the reception, a hẻm runs past the lounge area. An intrinsic element of urban activity, the recreated alleyway provides guests an opportunity to relish in the cramped lanes that thrum with activity throughout the city. Sipping an iced coffee made with robusta beans and sweetened condensed milk prepared with a “phin” filter while sitting on a small chair invites guests to the quintessential Saigon pastime of hanging out. The scene is imagined so faithfully in the outdoor veranda that you wouldn’t be surprised if a mobile laminator were to move their cart through the small lane.

Saigon culture plays out primarily on the pavement as understood via the lobby’s homages to sidewalk vendors. Moreover, walking to the elevator to access your room feels like moving through the streets to go home. A vintage Phoenix bicycle rests against the wall beneath modernist light bulbs that resemble streetlights. To enter the elevator, you must pass the decorative folding steel door gate that accompanies a subtle clank of collapsing metal hinges: one of the city’s most charmingly recognizable sounds. Inside, the walls are covered with the familiar scrawl of phone numbers announcing homes for sale and services on offer. Finally, the hallway to your room is awash in color, with reds, yellows, greens, and blues conveying the city’s eclectic use of bright hues. Beside each door, the room number is presented as a mailbox, calling to mind the importance of the city’s Central Post Office and the larger legacy of colonial architecture.

The Familiarity of a Saigon Home

Hotel Indigo Saigon The City’s rooms aim to give you the feel of staying at a local home while providing the international standards the global chain is known for. Accomplishing this balance involves authentic design details, materials, and motifs alongside modern amenities.

A characteristic element of a Saigon dwelling awaits in every corner of the rooms. From floor carpeting styled after buildings’ classic ceramic tiles to wicker and rattan furniture to the dishes of nostalgic street snacks, including pig's ear cookies and dried fruit awaiting alongside a vintage garde-manger minibar, the habits and surroundings of an urban family are presented effortlessly. While the room provides a peaceful bit of serenity, the city beyond makes itself known as well via lightbulbs inspired by a hẻm’s tangle of exposed wiring as depicted on the mural behind the bed. Some of the rooms feature views onto a true and timeless city hẻm while others gaze onto the majestic Ba Son Bridge, a hint at the area’s rapid modernization.

Amidst this careful conflation of styles that embraces a home’s assemblage of hand-me-down and reclaimed items are touches of modern charm. On the bathroom vanity, for example, which is adapted from a humble street cart, is a full assortment of amenities. Whether you are exploring the city as a solo-traveler, on a romantic getaway, a carefree family holiday, or simply in town for business, each room type is aimed at providing you with international comfort wrapped in the aesthetics of historic Saigon.

Stopping at the Shipyard

Ba Son, the neighborhood where , Hotel Indigo Saigon The City is located, has a specific storied past. As part of their colonizing efforts, the French expanded it into Indochina’s largest shipyard. As the metropolis was most frequently accessed via the Saigon River and maritime trade was of the utmost importance, the shipyard’s role in connecting the country to the world was immense. After Vietnam won its independence, it remained crucial to development, allowing the shipbuilding and repair industry to flourish alongside naval needs.

While Ba Son no longer serves a maritime function, the architecture, infrastructure, and details of its history remain as defining characteristics, particularly in The Shipyard, Hotel Indigo Saigon The City’s in-house restaurant. Walking from reception, you’ll pass a communal space with cabinets containing antiques from times past. Old compasses, cameras, lamps, and machine parts set the mood for the nautical iron and fishbone ceiling. A rugged pulley system connects L1 to The Shipyard Upper Deck on the Mezzanine floor, bringing not only dishes down from the kitchen but also taking you back in time to the former shipyards' powerful mechanics.

After sitting down at a table that features a saltwater lamp, a “Storyteller” will arrive wearing a uniform styled after classic sailor attire. Behind you, calming fabrics accenting the wall call to shipments of fine materials and the nearby Tân Định Market, where tailors transformed them into the styles of the day. With ceramic flooring straight out of Saigon’s mid-century modernism, the two floors of dining, which are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, encapsulate how the city’s collective style is one of contrasting elements.

The Shipyard’s menu reflects the area’s harmonizing of tradition and modern trends with its expansive menu that features Saigon favorites like hủ tiếu and bánh mì alongside expected international items like steak and hamburgers. The coffee, prepared with a heavy dose of caffeine and sugar, as Saigon residents like it, is an essential part of any meal.

While not yet known in Vietnam, Hotel Indigo is a familiar name throughout the world, renowned for its incorporation of local design elements that ensure no two locations are similar. Hotel Indigo Saigon The City, the first Vietnamese location, thus serves as an introduction ot its philosophy. Its faithful embrace of local styles and stories that offer an authentic and intimate experience rewards those who are traveling here for the first time, or are eager to feel the city more deeply than ever. Meanwhile, local residents can be proud that their culture’s unique style is so lovingly presented.

Stepping beyond the confines of four narrow walls to embrace the vastness of nature, creative ideas begin to flow effortlessly.

Breaking away from conventional meeting formats, An Lâm Retreat Saigon River introduces a reimagined MICE concept: one that strengthens team bonds, sparks creativity, and celebrates sustainability. More than a venue for productive meetings, it is a “green journey” where nature, people, and emotions harmonize, elevating collective spirits to new heights.

Green Meetings at An Lâm Retreat Saigon River

The MICE journey at An Lâm Retreat Saigon River begins the moment guests step aboard the resort’s speedboat departing from Bạch Đằng station. In just 25 minutes, the transfer elevates above a simple ride and becomes a chance to connect, pause, and take in the scenery as it gradually transforms from the city’s claustrophobic energy into the lush, tranquil greenery along the Saigon River.

Nestled in the heart of nature, An Lâm Retreat Saigon River is among the premier destinations for an inspiring MICE experience.

Upon arrival, guests will feel as if they have been transported into another world: a tropical garden shaded by lush trees, wooden pathways, and winding vines that fall gracefully like a living painting. The spirit of “green” is reflected in rustic architecture crafted from eco-friendly materials, honoring and preserving nature’s pristine values. Together, these details create an atmosphere that is fresh, serene, and deeply restorative. It is a place to breathe freely and reignite the creative mind.

Alongside five versatile venues for meetings and events of all scales, An Lâm Retreat Saigon River distinguishes itself with its ability to curate tailored experiences that ease tension and enhance productivity.

The event spaces here embody a harmonious and refined balance between modern comforts and the purity of nature.

Beyond meeting sessions, leaders and team members can strengthen their bonds through engaging activities such as a group cooking challenge guided by the resort’s talented chefs, using 100% fresh ingredients handpicked from the organic garden. For simpler moments, coffee breaks can turn into opportunities to enjoy the resort’s “green – clean – wholesome” menus—an effective way to refresh energy and restore balance after hours of intensive discussions.

Yoga exercises inspire positive energy.

 At An Lâm Retreat Saigon River, the philosophy of harmony with nature runs through every detail, from architecture and dining to leisure and team-building activities. Far from conventional formats, group experiences are always enriched by the presence of lush greenery and the fresh, invigorating air that eases off the Saigon River.

In particular, riverside spa therapies and yoga sessions offer a holistic sense of balance, enhancing awareness of self-care and contributing to more effective, fulfilling meeting days.

"What is there that's fun to do today?" You've probably found yourself asking this of friends and family during weekends in Saigon. Golf might be the exact activity you're looking for.

  Some people think golf is too challenging to pick up or simply not for them. Wicking Golf aims to prove otherwise. Conveniently located just beside Phú Mỹ Hưng, provides a comfortable environment to introduce people of all ages and backgrounds to a sport that can be surprisingly fun and relaxed. 

Surrounded by nature in a spacious environment that calls to mind backyards, Wiking Golf balances opportunities for seasoned golfers looking for a place to keep their skills sharp and newbies curious to try out one of the world's most storied pastimes. Experienced coaches offer lessons for newcomers picking up a club for the first time. The 9-hole par 3 allows them to experience the feeling of full courses without the pressure and commitment of a trip to a full course.  Meanwhile, 40 practice mats, 10 on-grass practice areas, and a 300-yard driving range that will re-open in November, all situated in expansive green spaces, reveal how any time spent golfing is an opportunity to savor fresh air and blue skies. 

In addition to the casual exercise and refreshing time outdoors, golf is a valuable chance to connect with people. Chit-chat between swings, as well as more formal events and meetings, are all a natural part of the golfing world. Wiking Golf welcomes companies, clubs, and organizations, supporting meetings and team-building events with private rooms and catering services. 

A perfect opportunity to discover how golf can combine competition and celebration is via the upcoming Three Clubs tournament on August 30. While the cocktails freeflow and the DJ spins music, a total of 48 golfers, spread across 4-person groups in early afternoon, afternoon, and late afternoon sessions, will compete using only three clubs of their choice. In addition to the friendly competition, the day includes food and exciting giveaways.

At some point, everyone asks themselves, their family, or their friends, "What is there to do for fun today?" Wiking Golf is here to suggest a carefree afternoon that combines time with loved ones and the thrill of sport. With full facilities and experts on hand to introduce the game, there is no reason not to give golf a try today. 

Courtyard by Marriott Danang Han River achieves 5-star hotel certification – affirming its leading position in hospitality and meetings in Danang just over two months after opening its doors.

Courtyard by Marriott Danang Han River achieves 5-Star hotel certification

Danang, Vietnam – August 18, 2025 – Courtyard by Marriott Danang Han River – the first Courtyard by Marriott hotel in Vietnam – has officially been awarded 5-star hotel certification by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Vietnam National Authority of Tourism.

Grand Opening Ceremony of Courtyard by Marriott Danang Han River

This marks a significant milestone, not only affirming the hotel’s position on the map of premium hospitality and conferences but also recognizing its efforts in delivering international high-standard service experiences. With a passionate team, dedicated service, and modern facilities, Courtyard by Marriott Danang Han River has quickly won the hearts of travelers and gained high acclaim from industry professionals.

Grand Opening & Celebrates 5-star hotel certification

This achievement contributes to elevating the image of Danang’s tourism and hospitality industry while reinforcing confidence in the potential of Vietnam’s luxury hotel market.

An Inspired Stay in the Heart of Danang

Located at 58 Bach Dang Street – right in the center of Danang – Courtyard by Marriott Danang Han River enjoys a “golden location” along the Han River, with convenient connections to the international airport, shopping centers, administrative areas, and famous tourist destinations.

The highest rooftop pool in the city center

The hotel features 300 guest rooms designed in a modern style, with floor-to-ceiling windows that open to spectacular views of the Han River, the Dragon Bridge, or the city center, bringing relaxation and comfort to business travelers, leisure guests, and MICE visitors alike.

300 modern guest rooms with spectacular views

International Standard Facilities & Services by Marriott International

The hotel offers a comprehensive system of facilities to meet a wide range of guest needs. The Landmark Restaurant brings diverse culinary experiences, combining the essence of distinctive local cuisine with international flavors. Immerse yourself in the art of tea at The Lobby Lounge with world-famous TWG. The Chill Bean – Espresso Bar is a dedicated space for coffee enthusiasts. M45 Rooftop Bar, the highest rooftop bar in downtown Danang, offers 360° panoramic views along with Japanese-inspired cocktails and an elevated Omakase dining experience.

M45 Rooftop Bar - the highest rooftop bar in downtown Danang

The hotel also features the highest rooftop pool in Danang, an indoor pool with panoramic views, and a modern fitness center overlooking the iconic Dragon Bridge.

Meetings & Events

With 10 versatile meeting rooms and a 385 m² Grand Ballroom featuring the city center’s highest ceiling at 8.5 meters, the hotel is equipped with cutting-edge audio- visual systems to host everything from business conferences to weddings and large- scale events. A unique highlight is the external escalator, connecting the ground floor directly to the 3rd floor event spaces for convenient guest access.

Grand Ballroom has the highest ceiling in the city center

For more information about Courtyard by Marriott Danang Han River or to make a reservation, click here.

***

About Courtyard by Marriott®
Courtyard by Marriott is the hotel brand of choice for trailblazing guests who are inspired by a passion to do great things. With over 1,340 locations in over 60 countries and territories, Courtyard is passionate about empowering its guests and serving the needs of travelers everywhere, no matter the purpose of their trip. Its thoughtfully designed guestrooms provide an elevated experience to relax and recharge, complete with plush bedding and flexible workspaces. Guests are able to work, eat well, connect, and be at their best to keep moving forward to succeed. Courtyard is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com. For more information or reservations, visit courtyard.marriott.com and stay connected on X, Instagram, and Facebook.

About Marriott Bonvoy®
Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands and 10,000 global destinations, offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable locations around the world. The award-winning travel program and marketplace gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.

Media Contact
Ni Na Nguyen
Marketing & Communications Manager
Courtyard by Marriott Danang Han River
NiNa.Nguyen@courtyard.com

Sometimes we need a little extra motivation to take what we know is a positive action. This certainly applies to sustainability efforts. We know we should bicycle instead of drive, eat at neighborhood spots instead of ordering delivery, turn off the shower while we lather our hair, and bring our own reusable bottles to coffee shops, but all too often we opt for convenience or complacency.

A Seat at the Sustainability Table

To learn more about one team attempting to combat this complacency, Saigoneer traveled to a nondiscript District 4 office. The city outside was humming with end-of-day commotion, but inside, there was a different, no less excited atmosphere. Surrounded by colorful components organized in sleek containers, we took a seat beside a table covered with bright sticker samples and spoke with Mai Trinh and Pierre Rault, the co-founders of NOPA. The company was preparing to launch an updated version of their first product, the NOPA MOVE bottle, and they spoke with the nervous joy one feels when sharing their vision with the world, hoping it will be embraced for the greater good.

Behind the scenes at NOPA.

A classic startup story, NOPA is the brainchild of passionate and experienced individuals who see unexpected challenges as necessary steps in the process. Mai and Pierre first met in 2022 while collaborating on a project for The Schoolab, an innovation studio that fosters collaborations between students and corporations where Pierre worked at the time. Tasked with tackling single-use plastics, the pair created an app for reusing drinking containers. Unfortunately, their product didn’t take off as they’d hoped, due largely to people's exhaustion with downloading more apps. But the experience proved to them that they work well together, and creating a product that seeks to address an important issue provides them both with meaning.

NOPA's founding team. From left to right: Nhan, Mai, Longly and Pierre.

Mai and Pierre remained in touch and, by 2023, decided to go all-in on creating a physical product that could entice people to avoid single-use cups or bottles. This meant that Pierre quit The Schoolab, preferring to dedicate himself fully to one project rather than assist and oversee many, a process he described as “having fingers in too many pies.” Meanwhile, Mai, whose background is in psychology and consumer insight, came to the decision after asking herself, “If I succeed, which is the table I want to be seated at? It’s sustainability.”

It's a Matter of Style

The world indeed has more than enough bottles. But the same could be said for shoes, and no one questions Nike when they release a new model of sneakers because it’s understood as a matter of fashion. This logic applies to NOPA as well.

The NOPA MOVE's bright colors and playful style aim to connect with people who want to carry it around as an extension of their personality and a functional accessory that allows them to feel part of an exclusive club. In this way, it is similar to a tote bag. Moreover, the NOPA team, which includes Chief Product Engineer, Nhan Nguyen, and Art Director, Longiy Trieu, hopes to create a community around the bottles that bonds users and partners around common values and aesthetic preferences.

Beyond the color combinations created via the easy-to-clean interchangeable bases, tops, and lids, the NOPA MOVE bottles stand out because of the stickers people place on them. Like laptops, cellphone cases, and bike helmets, they serve as billboards that advertise one’s interests, sense of humor, and allegiances. Longiy made the initial stickers that are sold with the bottles and reflect the core brand aesthetics, as well as thematic expansion packs such as Summer Vibe. These specially made stickers are uniquely designed to fit on the bottle’s inner and outer layers and withstand temperature changes as well as the routine wear and tear a bottle experiences.

NOPA's collaboration with local artist, Psyche.

Besides the official NOPA stickers, people often attach their designs to the bottles. To indulge a greater number of options while continuing to reflect their core identity, NOPA is thus working with local artists for sticker sets printed to work perfectly with the bottle materials. Psyche, a beloved local artist is the first to be featured. Saigoneer has gotten involved too, with our first-ever sticker set and accompanying bottle launching earlier this summer. Images include ones based on our popular Natural Selectionseries that include our recently announced mascot, the Đông Hồ baby, and humorous typos inspired by old Vietnamese signage. Available for purchase at LÔCÔ Art Markets and via NOPA’s website, they allow people to show off their love for Saigoneer, or at least carry some cool art around with them.

People who refill their NOPA MOVE bottle at a participating partner can receive a discount or promotion that allows them to feel like members of an exclusive club. The specifics of the incentive are up to the particular coffee shop, but examples include reduced prices or free upsizes. All participating venues can be located easily via a phone’s map app, which doubles as a guide for cool cafes in the city. Amongst the more than 90 locations are some familiar names including OKKIO, S'Mores, Bosgaurus, WEGO, Auvery, Mille Mille, and BEL.

NOPA Move in action with participating partner locations.

One of the most exciting developments is a recent partnership with a coffee cart brand, which exemplifies how NOPA aims to integrate with local coffee habits. To this point, Pierre has embarked on amonth-long reuse challenge, visiting a different participating venue each day. 

Approaching the Future without Limitations

“We’ve emerged from Death Valley,” Mai joked when asked about the current plans and future of NOPA after undergoing the difficult launching process. The new version of the NOPA MOVE bottle features some design adjustments to make it more durable and contains an NFC chip that allows partners to track reward usage with their partners. The data will also be helpful when assessing broader success in pursuing sustainability as part of grant projects. Since June, they've been working with the UN to explore how gamification can motivate sustainable reuse.

In addition to selling to individuals, the team hopes to expand its B2B sales. They’d like to entice a company to purchase bottles for their entire office located near a participating partner, for example. The NOPA team can create custom designs and stickers for interested clients, allowing them to reflect a company’s or organization’s specific branding as well. NOPA may also branch beyond personal drink bottles into containers for household goods and cleaning products.

Success for any company can be difficult to define. But Pierre admitted that he would be beyond thrilled to see a stranger using a NOPA MOVE “out in the wild.” Considering the unique designs, flexible use, and ability to receive rewards while doing one’s small part to help the environment, it’s not difficult to imagine such a scene playing out soon.

Floating high above the city on the 39th floor of Hilton Saigon, Residence Eleven is a narrative in space, taste, and memory. As the first Chinese fine-dining venue in a five-star hotel to offer direct, panoramic views of the Saigon River, it brings a singular perspective, both literally and metaphorically, on Cantonese cuisine in Vietnam.

A Story Told by Song

At the heart of Residence Eleven lies a fictional muse, Song. The story of the modern-day heiress who spent her childhood in Saigon after leaving China threads through every detail of the restaurant, from its modern Chinese design language to the dishes that evoke a sense of both nostalgia and discovery. This is not a pastiche of the old world, but a quiet reinterpretation with refinement replacing ostentation and craftsmanship revealing itself in restraint.

The restaurant opens with a soaring double-height lobby and a curated wine cellar on display like a living installation. The main dining room floats in warm tones of brushed gold, amber woods, and soft lighting that shifts gently with the sun. Touches like the gold-plated ceiling or the bespoke seating nooks speak the language of a quiet luxury that doesn’t shout, but lingers. The design is thoughtful, not theatrical, and made to elevate both conversation and contemplation.

As you enter the main dining space, a distinct warmth washes over you. The palette of gold, amber, deep reds, and smoky browns evokes the nostalgia and cinematic elegance of a Wong Kar-Wai film. The space whispers of time, layering the grace of the past with the rhythm of the future. It’s majestic, yet not austere. Elegant, yet welcoming.

At the heart of the restaurant lies its soul: a wood-fired oven where Cantonese roasting techniques are taken to extraordinary new heights. This is not merely a showpiece, it’s a living testament to craftsmanship. Here, meats are roasted slowly over wood flames, infusing every dish with a delicate smokiness and textural precision impossible to achieve by modern shortcuts. The drama of the flame, the sound of the carving blade, the subtle perfume of char—each moment is choreographed with purpose.

Seating is thoughtfully arranged to suit both convivial gatherings and quiet moments of reflection. Two private dining rooms, each rich with its own Chinese design cues, offer sanctuary for business lunches, family feasts, or celebrations. Between the semi-private nooks and grand banquettes overlooking the open kitchen, there’s a harmony of flow and privacy, of openness and intimacy.

A Cantonese Soul, a Saigon Spirit

Guiding the kitchen is Chef Gary, a Hong Kong native with over three decades of experience in elite Cantonese kitchens across Asia. For him, Residence Eleven is not just a platform for heritage, but a canvas for evolution. His approach honors traditional techniques while embracing the seasonal richness of Vietnam’s terroir. He incorporates ingredients like Khánh Hòa bird’s nest, Nha Trang lobster, Trà Vinh tiger prawns, and hoa thiên lý into the menu.

“Every ingredient we use must speak to both place and purpose,” Chef Gary shares. “We want to reflect the elegance of Cantonese cuisine, but also the beauty and depth of Vietnam’s local produce.”

A standout on the menu, the garlic and chili stir-fried lobster is a spectacular intersection between the bounty of Vietnamese seas and the signature wok-frying artistry of Cantonese cuisine. The Nha Trang green lobster, prized for its firm, sweet, and exceptionally fresh flesh, is prepared using a traditional garlic and chili stir-frying technique passed down from the coastal fishermen of old Guangdong. Flash-fried with garlic, shallots, fermented soybeans, and chili, then finished with a dusting of refined sea salt, the dish retains the fresh brininess of the ocean while delivering a punch of bold, spicy flavor. It’s a refined blend of heritage cooking and contemporary Hong Kong technique. Meanwhile, Residence Eleven’s signature roast duck is another highlight, featuring crispy skin, tender meat, and a meticulous, performance-like tablesideserving ritual.

A Place to Return To

For discerning diners, international guests, or business leaders seeking a more nuanced dining experience, Residence Eleven offers a rare escape above the urban rhythm. Whether it’s a private celebration, a discreet power lunch, or simply an evening spent savoring well-crafted dim sum, every visit feels intentional and designed not just to impress, but to resonate.

Beyond its à la carte offerings, Residence Eleven also presents seasonal tasting menus, an elegant dim sum brunch, and curated lunch sets for time-conscious connoisseurs.
More than a restaurant, Residence Eleven is an invitation to slow down and to rise above the noise and reconnect with flavor, culture, and self.

Vietnam’s first single malt whisky is almost here. Right now, it’s up in Hanoi, soaking up subtle flavors from ex bourbon and new American oak barrels.

Về Để Đi’s first home-grown single malt whisky will be bottled in time for Tết 2027, bringing Vietnam into the sophisticated global community of single malt whisky makers. But before that happens, there is already cause for much excitement around the company co-founded by Dr. Michael Rosen and Quân Nguyễn in 2020.

Before There is Single Malt, There are Spirits

Originating in Northern Europe, whisky production is relatively new to subtropical regions, such as Vietnam. When perfromed in hot and humid conditions, the distilling process undergoes significant changes. Most significantly, the whisky ages much faster: what would take 3-4 years in Scotland might only take 1 year in Hanoi. Still, waiting several years before a product is ready to bring in revenues presents a great challenge to any new business. Thus, Về Để Đi, like many craft distilleries around the world, has been making spirits and liquors that don’t require such a lead time, as they prepare for their whisky’s release.

Because gin is a “make-it-today, sell-it-today” spirit, there are already a few local varieties on the market here in Vietnam. However, Về Để Đi has still found room to provide something unique by distilling from scratch using only Red River Delta rice that is blessed with hand-peeled and dried Buddha’s Hand fruit, white tea tree flowers, hạt dổi, mác khén, Italian juniper, cassia lavender, and green cardamom. Về Để Đi’s embrace of local ingredients extends to a Crème de Cacao made with Marou Chocolate’s Lâm Đồng single-origin cocoa nibs; a Crème de Coconut comprised only of Thái Bình rice, Nghệ An sugarcane, and Bến Tre coconuts; Triple Sec made with Hà Giang cam sành oranges, a cold brew Coffee Liqueur made with local Arabica and Robusts beans and a rum that makes use of Nghệ An molasses and village made sugarcane honey.

More than stops along the road till their premium single malt arrives, these are small batch, hand crafted spirits appealing to young, adventurous drinkers and innovative local bartenders in the country’s burgeoning cocktail scene. Particularly suitable for resorts, hotels and the convenience of individuals, Về Để Đi has also released ready-to-drink cocktails and partnered with local resorts and restaurants for customized versions. Curious at-home imbibers can also check out the many recipes featured on the company’s website.

These spirits and liqueurs are helping Về Để Đi build a reputation for expertly crafted and lovingly balanced drinks. They doubled down on these efforts when the team, led by Master Distiller Edward Tiege, purchased a secret single malt whisky from overseas then aged further here to offer a three cask single malt of bourbon, sherry and new American oak. This light and flavorful Distiller's Choice, “aged to perfection in Vietnam,” offers is a well-rounded introductory whisky that is flavorful enough for cocktails, including the region’s famed highballs, a campaign the company light heartedly calls it’s “hai ball” campaign..

Before there is Single Malt, There are Awards

While the quality of the current Về Để Đi lineup should assure thirsty customers that the team’s first single malt whisky will be something special, the greatest reason to trust and anticipate came earlier this year when they won “Best in the World” in the New Make & Young Spirits category at the prestigious 2025 World Whiskies Awards.

To understand the significance of this award, we must first understand a simplistic version of the whisky-making process. It starts when barley milled, seeped in a wash tun, run through a mash filter press, with yeast “pitched” in and the resulting “wash” and attended to as it ferments. Up to this point, the procedure is identical to making craft beers, except without hops. This explains why Về Để Đi employs a head brewer, Ms. Nguyễn Thị Lan Anh, whose mother introduced her to the distilling world in their traditional Ha Tinh village, famed for its rice liquor.

The “distiller’s beer,” as it is sometimes called, is then heated in stills to increase the alcohol percentage and remove impurities. This clear “new make” is then aged in oak barrels, where it acquires the complex flavors, aromas, and color of the oak. Called “moonshine” in America, new make is not commonly consumed outside of niche whisky nerd circles, but making a great new make is a strong sign that a distillery knows what they are doing, having perfected the detail-dependent process, selected excellent ingredients, and maintaining high standards when meticulously experimenting and testing.

When speaking with Saigoneer, Rosen jokingly said the award was akin to a young chessmaster winning a meaningful tournament; there’s good reason to believe he is on the road to being grand master sooner than later. But in all seriousness, it gives Về Để Đi confidence that their vision and execution are at the world-class level they are aspiring to.

Before there is Single Malt, There are Opportunities

While Về Để Đi’s single-malt won't reach glasses for another year and a half, there is plenty to do in the meantime. Logistical matters such as designing labels, selling barrels to interested bars and individuals, and sending out samples for competitions all require a lot of work. Moreover, there is still room to educate local drinkers about the beverage, including the meaning of single malt. Contrary to what people believe, it simply means the whisky was all produced at a single distillery from 100% malted partner. The master distiller or blender often combines many different casks from the one distillery to achieve the specific balance and profile he is after.

In addition to giving drinkers a better understanding of single malt, Về Để Đi is introducing themselves and their other spirits. At various tasting events throughout the country, glasses are being poured so guests can recognize the uniquely Vietnamese touches in the tropical beverages. Similarly, attendees can hear some stories that reveal their dedication to the country’s authentic heritage. In addition to Lanh Anh, the all-Vietnamese distillery team has quite a few interesting stories, including those of Trần Trung Dũng who joined the team after driving long-haul trucks across Russia. Interested folk can also pick up bottles at various shops throughout Vietnam.

Nguyễn Thị Lan Anh (left) and Trần Trung Dũng (right) reflect Về Để Đi's commitment to empowering local producers and experts.

While releasing Vietnam’s first single malt whisky is quite the achievement that upends the geographical expectations for the storied beverage, Rosen is earnest when reflecting on what it means. There are already many whiskies, he admits. But none that reflect the weather of Hanoi and the craft of Vietnam. In deep craft, he sees a sense of peace. “Not to be all 1960s ‘Peace, Love, and Rock & Roll,’ but that's a bit of the truth of it. I wanted us to create something that's a part of a peaceful way people share time and experience, where people share and respect each other's company.”

Enjoy a wonderful summer and welcome special anniversaries with family and friends, accompanied by countless five-star resort amenities at Ixora Ho Tram by Fusion resort — the newest arrival toThe Grand Ho Tram complex.

Closeness to Nature Invites Comfort

Conveniently located approximately two and a half hours from Saigon, Ixora Ho Tram by Fushion faces pristine Hồ Tràm Beach on one side and the primeval Phước Bửu - Bình Châu forest on the other. This abundance of nature makes Ixora Ho Tram by Fusion an ideal destination for those yearning for a total escape without spending a lot of time in transit. 

Ixora Ho Tram by Fusion consists of 164 apartments and 46 villas.

The sophisticated, modern architecture reflects the resort's appreciation for health, spirit, and elegance, allowing you to feel connected in mind and body to the meticulously maintained green spaces.

A Resort For All Variety of Guests

Ixora Ho Tram by Fusion offers a selection of apartment and villa options with sea or garden views to match every vacation preference. Families and groups of friends often select the 2-bedroom apartments or luxury penthouses with panoramic views of the swimming pools.

Meanwhile, if you are looking for a more luxurious and private experience for your group, the 3-bedroom garden-view villas provide quiet spaces with a harmonious abundance of nature, which is ideal for peaceful mornings with your whole family.

The most sought-after accommodation option at Ixora Ho Tram by Fusion is the 3-bedroom Ocean View villa with a private outdoor swimming pool and sunbathing area just a few steps away from the shimmering blue sea. The villa is carefully designed so natural light fills the spacious shared living area and grants inspiring views of nature outside. It is an ideal place for families to relax together and savor precious time with one another while absorbing a restorative energy and peace of mind from the beach. 

Diverse Entertainment Experiences, Enticing Cuisine

Ixora Ho Tram by Fusion gives as much care and attention to entertainment and relaxation activities as it does to the resort's design. The unique open space, surrounded by fresh green areas and calm water, creates a peaceful oasis that helps visitors easily immerse themselves in the presence of bird songs and blooming plants. The on-site Maia Spa offers a variety of intensive treatment packages, from relaxing massages using natural ingredients, including herbs and essential oils, to comprehensive body and facial care packages combined with acupressure and deep massage techniques. A trip to the spa provides adults with a release from busy lives.

All therapies at Maia Spa are performed by a team of skilled technicians who are knowledgeable in traditional treatment methods that incorporate modern technology to improve physical and mental health.

Maia Spa has a unique open architecture style.

Families with young children can visit the Ixora Kids Club, a special hub of fun dedicated to children. Activities that stimulate intelligence and creativity include making paper animals, painting statues, sand painting, and other arts and crafts, as well as novel physical activities such as yoga.

If you consider yourself a foodie, you'll want to start every day at Rush Café to recharge with warm pastries and cool drinks, and then enjoy creative cocktails at Beach Box alongside appealing appetizers that are served with a view of Hồ Tràm Beach. When it comes time for dinner, Sea Salt serves all-day comfort foods that span local flavors and international cuisine.

The Newest Addition to an Expansive Complex

Ixora Ho Tram by Fusion Resort joins a stellar complex of accommodations that share a stunning number of activities for all ages and passions. Guests can also easily access the other facilities and entertainment opportunities at the leading resort complex, The Grand Ho Tram, which is a short stroll away.

There you can visit Beta Cinema to take in the latest movies, strengthen family bonds by belting out trendy hits in a Karaoke room, or get your heart racing together at the pickleball court. You can travel from Ixora Ho Tram by Fushion to these ideal ways to spend a vacation day via a 5-minute walk or a complimentary tram ride.

Start planning now for a special year-end holiday with your family and friends at Ixora Ho Tram By Fusion, where every moment transforms into a cherished memory. 

Tucked away amidst the vibrant rhythm of Sài Gòn Ward, Hotel Indigo Saigon The City reimagines the purpose of an event space. It's Saigon – Gia Dinh Room is not simply as a venue, but a canvas for storytelling, where memories are awakened, emotions stirred, and every detail pulses with meaning.

At the recent event “An Evening In The Hẻm,” the hotel transformed the Saigon – Gia Dinh Room into a soulful homage to the city’s beloved alleyways, those quiet, unassuming corridors of daily life that cradle Saigon’s most intimate stories. Gone were the expected four walls. In their place stood a memory-laden hẻm scene: bamboo grasshoppers, timeworn tea tables, wooden cabinets, an antique sewing machine, delicate lotus blooms, and the gentle glow of golden light. Each element was crafted to evoke nostalgia and invite connection.

The event was a heartfelt invitation to discover how Hotel Indigo Saigon The City brings stories to life through its spaces. Every gathering there is not just a meeting, it’s an experience told via light, texture, music, and above all, cuisine that speaks with the voice of the neighborhood.

The curated menu, titled “An Exquisite Flavour of Hẻm” unfolded like a culinary memoir. It began with seared Hokkaido scallops nestled atop carrot purée, kissed with lemongrass-makrut lime sauce and a crown of caviar — a graceful introduction that stirred the senses. A sophisticated yet comforting, refined ravioli consommé with green lobster, Iberico Bellota ham, sun-dried tomatoes, and edamame foam followed. The main course, a marbled MB3 beef tenderloin with seared foie gras, truffle mushroom jus, and creamy potatoes, brought depth and indulgence. A serene Sapa peach mousse with sakura jelly and roasted peach closed the meal with a sweet, delicate, and light as a whisper. Every dish was a moment of pause, a tribute to Saigon’s street flavours told through the lens of elegance and craft.

The Saigon – Gia Dinh Room is a testament to the hotel’s design philosophy: spaces should speak. With its fluid layout and locally inspired details, it’s the perfect backdrop for creative workshops, press events, bespoke launches, or meaningful private gatherings. It is where events are more than held, it’s where they are felt.

Throughout the hotel, this narrative continues. The lobby welcomes guests into the spirit of old Saigon: a Phoenix bicycle stacked with vintage suitcases that forms the art installation titled Bags of Burden, which evokes journeys of resilience and return. Reception counters mimic street vendor carts, echoing the city’s lively sidewalks. A hidden alleyway beside the lobby glows with soft light and stories, inviting guests into a microcosm of Saigon’s everyday charm. The guest rooms reinterpret traditional Saigon homes through a modern lens, while The Shipyard restaurant draws inspiration from the legendary Ba Son shipyard, a cornerstone of the city’s industrial and cultural soul.

Rooted in the heritage of District 1 and designed to reflect the rhythm of its surrounding neighbourhood, Hotel Indigo Saigon The City is a living story. Here, every corner, every moment, and every gathering is an invitation to feel something more: a sense of place, a spark of memory, and a connection that lingers long after the night ends.

Most resorts have a restaurant, but few have one as good as Madame Son.

Bright Hội An lanterns seem to float above the tables, casting soft light onto repurposed doors and gracefully carved banisters that provide privacy to secluded tables. Champa reliefs at the entrance, a decorative ship holding flowers, and the peaceful ocean seen from the large windows all place guests firmly in Central Vietnam. This is where Chef Thịnh Nguyễn is from and a location that offers inspiration for each dish at Madame Son.

Chef Thịnh Nguyễn.

Madame Son, a refined but playful restaurant, does what many restaurants attempt: blend traditional flavors and innovative preparation methods. But thanks to Chef Thịnh’s care and creativity, along with the support of his expert team, it succeeds where many do not. It offers genuinely surprising and simultaneously comforting dishes that honor tradition and innovation. Located in Marriott Danang Resorts & Spas, not only should it attract guests from outside the property, but it should serve as a standard for resort restaurants that others aim to achieve.

The Journey of 5 Elements

Madam Son owes its name to Ngũ Hành Sơn, the Marble Mountains, as personified by a charming Vietnamese woman who carefully elevates local cuisine. Like the nature that surrounds her namesake mountain, she prizes balance in her dishes. Her cooking philosophy is one of harmoniously combining contrasts in flavors as well as the past, present, and future. The restaurant features a full menu that brings diners the length of Vietnam via premium ingredients, classic flavors, local spices, and innovative techniques.

During our visit, Saigoneer sampled The Journey of 5 Elements set menu, which served as an ideal introduction to Madam Son’s overall ethos. Exemplifying the eatery’s belief in the importance of balance, it bases each item around five key taste elements: spicy (metal), sour (wood), bitter (fire), salty (water), and sweet (earth).  

The meal started in praise of local produce via the heirloom tomato salad. Preserved tomato and fresh watermelon provided sugar and acidity to contrast rich whipped ricotta, all from the Đà Lạt hills. This light and refreshing starter was followed by a salmon tataki inspired by the region’s fishing traditions. Buddha’s Hand citron imparted a bittersweet, floral brightness alongside the sweet tropical tang of golden berries and creamy ponzu sauce with fermented cream. The flavors blended in exciting ways that seemed perfectly at home beside the beach and its soft breezes. 

When the meal transitioned to the main courses, Vietnam’s cherished food legacy further asserted itself. The fresh rice noodles with charcoal-grilled pork took familiar bún chả to new and intriguing places via unexpected textures and sauce imbued with lessons learned over generations in Central Vietnamese kitchens. 

Diners acquainted with Vietnamese luxury meals will be familiar with salted egg sauce. Frequently lavishing crustaceans, it provides a rich succulence that Chef Thịnh interprets against a backdrop of sweet grilled prawns and sweet cherry tomatoes. This elegant spread of flavors receives an unexpected humility in the form of delicious young corn that calls to mind bắp xào in spicy butter garlic sauce. Taken together, it proves how Vietnam’s fine dining and street food both contribute to the nation’s esteemed culinary reputation.

Our meal ended with 1114 coconut jelly. A popular, palate-cleansing dessert, coconut jelly is a masterpiece of simplicity. Chef Thịnh embraces the coconut’s reputation for versatility by using young coconuts harvested from the resort’s grounds to make the jelly and an incredibly silky ice cream. Decadent without calling undue attention to itself, the item was the perfect closer to one of the best meals we’ve had at a resort anywhere in the country. 

Innovation Inspired by Local Seasonality

The Journey of 5 Elements we savored during our visit might not be exactly the same during your visit. The menu frequently undergoes small changes to reflect what produce, meats, and fish are in season, along with the creative impulses of Chef Thịnh and his team. For example, coal fire might bring out the savory notes of tender spring chicken with fresh broccolini and the baby carrots, instead of pork. Or perhaps, scallops will serve as the centerpiece of a starter instead of salmon. The room for flexibility allows Madame Son to serve the absolute best dishes possible while honoring the recipes the local team develops in harmony with the ingredients they grew up with. It also means they can make great use of sustainable ingredients, some of which come from the resort’s garden. This à la carte menu experiences seasonal changes as well. Intriguing items we hope to return to try include lobster bánh mì, Hanoi’s famous chả cá Lã Vọng made with cod, and dry-aged duck.

Eager for any opportunity to showcase local flavors, the cocktails served at Madam Son provide another space for creativity. During our visit, a gin cart frequented our table to serve cocktails made with several varieties of local gin and Vietnamese fruits, herbs, and spices. Honeys made from bees pollinating local plants not only provide fantastic narratives to the drinks, but also deliciously peculiar flavors to the drinks made with traditional Vietnamese rice wine and local rum.

A Growing Reputation

While Madame Son is the hallmark dining destination at Marriott Danang Resort & Spa, it isn’t the only place on the premises for a good meal. The Goji Kitchen and Bar serves international fare that aims to bring something for everyone, including a full children’s menu. Meanwhile, Non Nuoc Bar thrives with seafood and barbeque items that complement cold beer and the ocean waves in the background. Finally, the Writer’s Bar reminds one that some of history’s greatest authors appreciated a strong cocktail, a comfortable chair, and an esteemed ambiance when working.

Chef Thịnh is young but has already accomplished much in his career. Most notably, he helped Madame Son win the award for Best Resort Restaurant in Vietnam at the 2025 Haute Grandeur Global Awards. Noting its innovative approach to contemporary Vietnamese cuisine and successful emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, the judges recognized its commitment to culinary excellence and its modern take on traditional Vietnamese flavors.

Whether it's the convenient location next to your hotel room, the allure of impressive accolades, this article’s promise of a stellar meal, or just happenstance, whatever brings you to Madam Son will be worth it. 

Summer travelers are invited to step into barefoot elegance on Phú Quốc’s storied shores.

Cozied up against a sun-lavished beach on Phú Quốc Island, La Veranda Resort – MGallery invites travelers to relive the slow, romantic summers of the 1950s. Recognized with the 2024 World Luxury Spa Awards and celebrated among Vietnam’s Top 10 Best Resorts in the 2025 DestinAsian Readers' Choice Awards, La Veranda offers a rare blend of French Indochine grandeur and barefoot tropical ease.

Built as a French colonial-style seaside mansion, La Veranda evokes an era where summers stretched endlessly and life moved with grace. Shaded verandas, handwritten postcards, soft jazz on the breeze — every corner of the resort transmits a timeless charm designed for today's discerning traveler.

For the 2025 summer season, from now until the end of September, La Veranda is offering two carefully designed offers that invite guests to rediscover the elegance of slow living by the sea.

The Holiday Saver

Crafted for seekers of an all-encompassing escape, the Holiday Saver package aims to give guests a full and extended embrace of the many things La Veranda does best. It includes a stay, cocktails, spa experience, and luxury dining. Guests can luxuriate in a four-day, three-night stay that includes buffet breakfasts, two leisurely lunches, and two candlelit dinners at the award-winning fine dining destination, The Peppertree, a tropical cocktail experience, as well as a full-body treatment. Taken together, the entire summer stay will capture the slow, sunlit pleasures of a tropical Indochine summer.

Wellness Hers & His

La Veranda is well known for its health and beauty treatments and the Wellness Hers & His caters to travelers who want to look and feel better than ever after a vacation. The package for two offers a three-day, two-night stay paired with a full-day holistic wellness journey at the resort’s award-winning TĨNH Wellness Sanctuary. Couples can choose between a Detox or Burnout Recovery program, each thoughtfully designed to restore both body and mind.

Whether lounging by the saltwater pool, indulging in award-winning spa therapies, or savoring gourmet French-Vietnamese cuisine overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, every moment at La Veranda feels like stepping into a postcard sent from a romantic version of the past.

Escape into a barefoot summer dream at La Veranda — where the past lingers sweetly and new memories are waiting to be written:

See full summer offer details here.

“These years of my life are very important, they shape the person I'm going to be in the future,” said Danko, a student who just finished Grade 9 at International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC).

While reflecting on his past five years at the school, Danko explained: “A lot of what I’ve learned is going to stick with me forever. ISHCMC was a place where I was able to learn more about math, English and the obvious school subjects, but also a place where I learned more about myself. It's a place where I've learned how to interact with other people and develop interpersonal communication, leadership, and collaboration skills.”

Classroom opportunities to explore real-world activities related to Danko’s academic interests, as well as his formal and informal leadership roles, exemplify the ISHCMC education. Supported by fantastic facilities and expert educators, the school provides opportunities to grow intellectually and socially, so students become well-rounded, globally-minded, self-motivated lifelong learners ready to thrive in the world. 

Before arriving at ISHCMC five years ago, Danko had attended other international schools, including most recently in Kenya. On his very first day, he witnessed ISHCMC’s inviting and supportive culture. “The most important thing is the people that are around you, and as soon as you get here, you get a buddy that will take you around; that will show you everything at the school, and help you integrate.” This uplifting community has allowed him to thrive academically, extracurricularly, and socially during the past five years.

Learning That Applies Beyond the Classroom

Career decisions remain far in the future for Danko, though he is already thinking that he might want to enter the finance field, or something to do with astronomy and aerospace engineering, because he loves mathematics. The International Baccalaureate Programme (IB) relies on inquiry-based, cross-disciplinary activities and applied engagements to foster learning and help him prepare for whatever ambitious goals he sets for himself. 

For Danko, the International Baccalaureate Programme Middle Years Program (IB MYP) at ISHCMC allowed him to explore his interest in mathematics via engaging, diverse projects, as compared to the textbooks and problem sets of more traditional educational approaches. For example, all grade 9 students worked together on the Chance carnival. In groups of three to four, they designed original games involving complex probability that were then physically constructed for students in younger grades to test. Danko and his peers then analyzed the actual probabilistic values observed compared to the theoretical ones they had calculated. Danko also noted that the activity was enjoyable and a great opportunity to work collaboratively with his peers.  

The Chance carnival assignment reveals how the IB MYP supports students in honing inquiry-based approaches to problems and interests in meaningful ways. While the program expects a lot of the students, ISHCMC’s teachers provide the support needed for them to rise to the challenge. As Danko explained: “It's very rigorous; It really pushes me to try my best … the program here has been curated in a way where it brings the best out of me."

In addition to the expert and experienced staff, students fully benefit from the IB program in all grades thanks to the school’s world-class facilities which include a media center, professional theater, recording studios, design suites, music practice rooms, NBA-size basketball court, rooftop sports field, 25m 8-lane pool, food tech and science labs. These spaces and technologies further diversify the options for students to explore their interests while gaining real-world skills.

Endless Opportunities to Learn and Grow Outside the Classroom

A school is more than its physical space, of course. As Danko explained: “Although the facilities here are top-notch, what really sets ISHCMC apart from other schools is the atmosphere itself... There's definitely a liveliness and energeticness.”

This lively atmosphere is perhaps best observed within the school’s extracurriculars. Students grow and learn in significant ways at ISHCMC thanks to the vast number of clubs, teams, groups, and activities available to students of all ages. Spread across athletics, performing arts, academic, and community involvement disciplines, the voluntary activities give students more chances to discover what they enjoy while cultivating collaborative skills.

Danko offered his philosophy on the availability of activities: “There are a lot of opportunities at ISHCMC, and I personally believe that if you're given an opportunity, then you should take it. Why not? That's how I look at life, and that's something ISHCMC does well: gives you the opportunities, and then you get to make the decision on what you want to do.” Such an outlook led him to take on a leadership role in the Model United Nations (MUN), participate in a Youth Peace and Justice Conference, serve on ISHCMC’s Student Executive Team, and play various sports such as badminton, football, and cross country.

When explaining his involvement in many extracurricular activities, Danko shared a Michaelangelo quote that resonates deeply with him: "The greatest danger for most of us is not that our aim is too high and we miss it, but that it is too low and we reach it."

Building Leadership Through Groups, Sports and Clubs

Through roles like football captain and MUN secretariat, Danko says leadership has been his most meaningful area of growth. As his football team’s captain and a leader in the MUN, he has not only been able to develop leadership skills, but also reflect on their value. He admits that the roles are good for his resume, but more so, they are learning opportunities. “Leadership is something you can learn and develop. You can get better at,” he said.

Leadership isn’t just taught, it’s lived at ISHCMC, as Marco Longmore, the Head of School, stressed earlier this year. The tangible effect of a school of leaders means classrooms, clubs, sports fields, and stages are all filled with individuals eager to support one another to succeed. As Danko said, “You can learn leadership from a certain role, which allows you to apply leadership on a team, in an organization, and even in a classroom. For example, in class, if somebody doesn't understand the concept, you can be someone who goes out of their way to give them a hand and explain it to them, visualize it for them.” 

Holistic Development of Life Skills and Global Mindedness

The many extracurricular opportunities available to ISHCMC students, in addition to the rigorous academic expectations, encourage the development of time management and organizational skills. With the support of teachers, peers, and their families, students come to understand how to recognize what they are realistically capable of doing and the most effective way to accomplish the tasks. “It's the idea of prioritizing time and prioritizing what you do,” Danko said. “Sometimes I have too much on my plate to the point where I'm not doing everything perfectly, but I understand I have only this much time, so I have to plan it out, I have to schedule it.”

In the same way that class activities prepare students for real-world projects and extracurricular organizations allow them to practice the collaborative roles they will need to take on in future relationships, workplaces, and groups, exposure to the need for balancing tasks, choosing interests, and managing deadlines prepares them for adult scheduling and accountability. 

Meanwhile, having a global mindset is not just a core value at ISHCMC but a philosophy holistically embedded across the school. The IB curriculum fully embraces it, using diverse examples, experience,s and perspectives for its materials and projects. Meanwhile, many of the extracurriculars concern themselves with global connectivity, be it the MUN’s focus on how national governments cooperate, theatre productions that look to scripts from around the world, or athletics with particular cultural roots like yoga and kungfu. 

Students develop a global mindedness without even needing to seek it out because of the school’s inherent diversity. With students and faculty reflecting more than 60 nationalities,  working with and learning from people with different backgrounds, experiences, cultures and outlooks is guaranteed. ISHCMC underscores to students how this is a core strength of the education. As Danko said: "I truly enjoy learning from various cultures and individuals, seeing how different people approach not only learning, but also how they behave and interact in everyday life and activities."

As Danko looks ahead, he noted plans to continue developing his leadership skills while becoming more experienced and invested in his interests as they become clearer. Over the last five years, he has grown and matured immensely, which also allowed him to look back and put himself in the shoes of a child just arriving at the school. Danko is now leaving the school, however, mentions how he does not regret the choices he has made over his years at ISHCMC. His biggest piece of advice for such a student involves recognizing the strength and warmth of the school community and everyone’s desire to work together to ensure success. "It's easy to get carried away with work, but sometimes you need to take a moment to understand what's happening around you to see how many people are helping you,” he said. 

Maurice Nguyễn and Rosie Ngô had studied and lived overseas but returned to Vietnam to raise their family.

They wanted a world-class, British-style education for their daughter, but it was 1997, and no such institution existed in Saigon. So they founded British International School Ho Chi Minh City (BIS HCMC), which has developed into a prestigious institution with a reputation for academic and social excellence.

Maurice Nguyễn and Rosie Ngô with their daughter.

One Global Group, Two Premium International Schools

As BIS students graduated and continued on to impressive, globally esteemed universities, the school started noticing a troubling trend. Maurice explained to Saigoneer that “as students progressed through BIS, accessing an extremely high quality of international education, we were finding that some of our local Vietnamese nationals were losing the ability to effectively communicate in their mother tongue. Additionally, they were becoming detached from their own heritage and culture and asking themselves, ‘who am I and where do I really come from?’”

This realization struck a nerve with Maurice because “when students connect with their own language, culture and traditions, they truly understand two very important aspects of their own identity – they know who they actually are and where they come from,” he said. “This helps them to think differently, engage and fit within an ever-changing world whilst also knowing where they belong.”

BVIS HCMC campus.

With these students in mind, in 2011, the team behind BIS opened the British Vietnamese International School (BVIS) with the goal of “giving families a choice to maintain and develop their cultural identity and allowing students to fully experience an international education,” Maurice said.

An Opportunity to Find The Path Suited for Each Student

For the past fifteen years, BVIS has been providing students with a premium international school education while allowing them to strengthen deep connections with their linguistic and cultural identity. They achieve this by delivering the National Curriculum of England in the Primary years in both English and Vietnamese while transitioning to an international education in the Secondary curriculum via 93% English instruction.

In addition to the equal balance of languages in the primary years, BVIS differs from BIS by offering the International A Levels for secondary students. Compared to BIS’s International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), it fosters a specialized, subject-focused pre-university pathway for students certain in their career trajectories. Both globally recognized programs prepare students to thrive at top universities around the world.

Bảo Quyên represents BVIS at the prestigious STEAM Conference at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the USA.

With the united collaboration of BVIS and BIS, parents have the opportunity to choose the school that represents the right fit for their child’s strengths, aspirations, and cultural goals. The decision is not a matter of good or bad, but rather, the right fit for each individual. Maurice stresses: “What’s important to know is this: regardless of which school you choose, your child will experience the same high standard of teaching, outstanding pastoral care, and world-class learning opportunities. At both BIS and BVIS, we share the same unwavering commitment to excellence.”

Collaboration Enhances Learning Opportunities

Despite serving different demographics, BIS and BVIS are intimately connected. They support each other by sharing best practices, leadership training, and a commitment to excellence as empowered by their membership in the Nord Anglia Education group. Together, BIS and BVIS represent a united educational community where every student benefits from a broader network of learning, leadership, and values.

BVIS and BIS Primary Student Leadership Conference.

Joint teacher development, school leadership forums, and occasional co-hosted community and charity events allow the faculty of both schools to share ideas and develop from one another’s experiences. Meanwhile, the students of both schools enjoy joint events, competitions, student council meetings, and cultural exchange projects, allowing them to broaden their global outlook and connect to larger, more diverse communities.

BIS and BVIS teachers collaborate and share knowledge.

Both BVIS and BIS are able to further their students’ and teachers’ connections with networks far beyond their campuses thanks to Nord Anglia. A collaborative network of more than 80 schools worldwide provides access to an exchange of ideas and experiences at a global level, including through partnerships with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Juilliard, and the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF).

Shaun Williams.

Shaun Williams, Regional Managing Director, Southeast Asia, Middle East and India at Nord Anglia Education, told Saigoneer that exclusive global conferences, professional development, and shared best practices help BVIS and BIS both “raise standards, stay innovative, and deliver the best to your child.” Meanwhile, “for students, it opens a world of opportunity. They take part in exclusive global summits, regional sports competitions, and collaborative events with world-leading institutions — all designed to develop leadership, creativity, and confidence on a global stage.”

Bright Futures Ahead with Shared Commitments to Excellence

Dee Grimshaw arrives from BIS to be the new BVIS principal.

As BVIS’s 15th anniversary approaches in the next academic year 2025-2026, the school is focused on strengthening its position as one of the leading international schools —offering a distinctive educational experience for families who wish to combine international learning with a strong connection to the Vietnamese language and cultural identity.

Further exemplifying the connection between BVIS and BIS, the school will welcome a new principal. Dee Grimshaw will arrive at BVIS after six years as headteacher at BIS. Meanwhile, Simon Higham, the current principal at BVIS will become the new principal at BIS. This leadership transition is part of the ongoing strategy to ensure the schools remain aligned with one another while adapting to the evolving needs of their unique communities.

Dee Grimshaw (left) and Simon Higham (right).

Because BVIS and BIS are both united around the same commitment to world-class teaching and learning, pathways to top global universities, and holistic development and are supported by Nord Anglia, two unique but complementary pathways exist in Saigon. As Maurice explained: “Ultimately, we’re proud to offer these two distinctive pathways because we know that no two families — and no two students — are exactly alike. And that’s exactly why we’ve created environments where every child can thrive, in the way that suits them best.”

“The goal of our school is to focus on inclusive practices where our students' individual learning styles are identified so that their learning journey is enriched,” explained Dr. Hana Adams, the Director of Student Support Services at International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC). The school emphasizes challenging engagements and inquiry-based thinking, and within this rigorous approach, whether ahead or behind their trajectories, some students need additional support to surpass expectations and thrive.

ISHCMC students can reach academic and social well-being goals because growth is carefully assessed and tracked, which allows experts to support and enrich learning. “The way we've developed our support services team is to have a level of expertise so that every child's needs can get met … we have experts on both campuses and dedicated spaces to ensure that all the childrens’ learning is enhanced and then, when needed, specific students get the extra level of support and enrichment that they need,” said Dr. Hana.

How Student Growth is Monitored

To ensure students are provided learning materials and enrichment opportunities that allow them to surpass expectations, academic and well-being growth must be monitored. The holistic monitoring method involves key formative and summative assessment periods, learning update reports, routine collaborative care conversations with the academic and pastoral teams, consultation with parents, observations of the student in their learning environment both in and out of the classroom, data collection, and standard assessments.

When each student begins their studies at ISHCMC, academic benchmarks are created that account for the child’s unique skills, abilities, and background. These outlines of a student’s current level allow teachers to devise lessons and instructions to support individual growth and success. The progress is then monitored in several ways, including rubrics applied to each learning cycle as part of ISHCMC’s continuum IB offering of International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IBPYP), Middle Years Programme (IB MYP), and Degree Program (IBDP). Data from formative and summative assessments is mapped to individual growth profiles, enabling timely and targeted support.

In addition to these empirical methods, students’ academic and well-being growth is carefully observed. Deep knowledge of each student enables the school’s educators to promptly provide targeted support or extend learning opportunities as needed. At ISHCMC, strong partnerships between families and the school, along with a nurturing classroom culture, ensure every student is recognized as an individual and supported to thrive.

Devising Effective, Personalized Strategies for Support and Enrichment

When a teacher recognizes that a student would benefit from alterations to their learning plans, whether providing additional enrichment or support, an organized response is swiftly implemented. For example, a subject teacher may meet with their department lead to review a student's results and determine differentiated supports for the subject. The teacher could also make a referral to the student support services team. Depending on the situation, the support services team will meet with the teacher and start to gather information about the student across subjects to better pinpoint needs. Strategies to address the situation will be devised, allowing time to monitor progress. 

Families are involved in this process early on to ensure a holistic understanding of the child’s school and home life. Strategies such as supporting the child's time management or organization skills will be shared with parents so they can support their child at home. Close communication empowers children to foster their sense of inquiry, independence, and agency as the core adults around them are focused on similar goals. Families are also encouraged to create a supportive environment at home where children can openly share their learning, achievements, and successes in school.

ISHCMC’s intentionally low student-to-teacher ratio allows personalized support to take place within the classroom, without disrupting the flow of learning. Rather than pulling students out of class, support is often delivered during regular lessons, whether through an additional teacher working closely with a student during a group activity or a dedicated support aide providing targeted, tiered interventions. This in-class model helps maintain a cohesive, inclusive learning environment while ensuring that every student, whether needing a challenge or extra guidance, receives the individual attention they need to thrive

How Specialists Shape Personalized and Inclusive Learning at ISHCMC

ISHCMC is able to meet and often exceed every student’s learning needs thanks to its exceptionally skilled and fully embedded team of specialists. “One of the things our school has that many others don’t is in-house clinicians,” explains Dr. Hana Adams, Director of Student Support Services. “We have full-time specialists on staff, including a speech and language therapist and an occupational therapist, who are deeply involved in daily school life.

These professionals do more than respond to challenges; they actively shape learning environments. For example, the speech and language therapist works closely with Early Years teachers, equipping them with strategies to better understand and engage with children who are not yet verbal. This proactive collaboration enhances every child’s learning experience, not just those receiving direct services.

Working in tandem with classroom teachers across all grade levels, the support services team helps foster an inclusive culture grounded in individual care, early intervention, and high expectations. Through ongoing professional development, co-planning, and input into classroom design and learning strategies, these experts ensure that ISHCMC classrooms are dynamic, accessible, and responsive to diverse learning needs, so that every student is set up to succeed from the start.

A Culture of Care that Drives Confidence and Excellence

At ISHCMC, a deeply embedded culture of care ensures that every student is known, supported, and empowered to thrive. The visibility and collaboration of the school’s expert support services team make it clear that seeking help, whether academic, social, or emotional, is not only accepted but encouraged. Students are taught that asking for support is a strength, and because this mindset is normalized, they feel confident taking ownership of their well-being and learning.

This culture is reinforced by Positive ISHCMC (POSISH), a school-wide initiative embedded into daily life. POSISH delivers regular lessons and workshops on topics such as digital citizenship, safety, positive relationships, and comprehensive sexual education. By proactively addressing real-world issues within a caring and inclusive framework, POSISH helps students develop strong social-emotional awareness and self-advocacy skills. Because the program is fully integrated into the curriculum, teachers and students alike have the flexibility to explore timely topics while maintaining academic momentum.

This whole-child approach complements ISHCMC’s inquiry-based IB education where students consistently achieve exceptional academic outcomes. IB scores are far above the global average, MAP scores place ISHCMC in the top 1% worldwide, and graduates are accepted into the world’s most competitive universities,  including Oxford, the London School of Economics, University of Melbourne, Seoul National University, Harvard, and Yale. To benefit from this world-class education, students are supported and challenged as individuals. Because their growth trajectory is closely monitored and expert-led responses are quickly implemented, ISHCMC students not only meet but consistently exceed academic and social well-being expectations, becoming confident, capable learners prepared for success anywhere in the world.

Behind these results is a school-wide commitment to seeing each child as an individual. Students’ growth is continuously monitored, and tailored support or enrichment is implemented the moment it’s needed. As a result, ISHCMC students don’t just meet expectations they consistently exceed them, emerging as confident, capable learners prepared to lead and succeed on a global stage.

“Each morning, the gates open to the joyful rhythm of footsteps and confident smiles. Students independently stroll in, waving to friends and familiar adults, ready to begin the day. With great enthusiasm, they engage in conversations, unpack their bags, tuck away their belongings, and proudly ‘check in’ before eagerly venturing off to discover what learning awaits them. This sense of confidence, independence, and joy isn’t an accident; it’s the result of a thoughtfully designed environment and an intentional approach to learning that nurtures essential life skills through meaningful play.”

You might think that Leanne Le, the Early Years PYP Coordinator at the International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC), is describing secondary students, but in fact, she’s talking about Early Years learners on a typical day at school.

“Even our youngest learners, some just two years old, walk in with a sense of purpose. At ISHCMC, the Early Years are more than a beginning; they are the groundwork for lifelong learning,” said Leanne.  

Each Early Years classroom invites curiosity. Thoughtfully arranged learning provocations spark exploration: role-play scenes nurture language and social connection, and sensory tables invite wonder. In this world of play, symbolic expression blooms, mathematical ideas take shape in towers and trains, language flows freely through puppet voices, drawing and storytelling, and scientific reasoning unfolds in puddles, shadows, and investigations of materials. Here, play is powerful and deeply intertwined with learning to provide children with the most authentic and age-appropriate ways to express ideas, solve problems, and dive into inquiry with joyful purpose. 

Learning that Lasts a Lifetime

While it may look like carefree and directionless fun to the untrained eye, when guided by ISHCMC’s experienced teachers, play becomes the foundation for development that shapes a child’s lifelong learning journey. 

Play at ISHCMC isn’t filler, it’s foundational. Guided by expert educators, play becomes the language through which children build not just academic skills, but lifelong capabilities: critical thinking, collaboration, empathy, resilience, and confidence. “In the first five years of life, a child’s brain grows to 90% of its adult size,” Leanne said. “That means what happens in these years lays the neurological and emotional foundation for the rest of their lives.”

ISHCMC views play as a powerful tool to support how young children explore, connect, and thrive. Whether constructing towers, caring for animals in a pretend zoo, or sharing stories at circle time, students are developing symbolic thinking, early numeracy and literacy, motor coordination, and interpersonal skills. Every moment is rich with purpose.

“We are not ‘soft’ — we are very intentional,” Leanne explained. Teachers shape each classroom environment around not only learning objectives but also draw inspiration from the voices, curious questions, and interests of each student. The Reggio-inspired classrooms are designed to promote independence and ignite student agency so the children feel empowered to make their own choices and successfully steer their learning adventures. When learners see their voices being honored, they become more engaged, energized, and invested in their learning, especially when they know their teachers collaborate with them as partners. It’s on that shared path that the real magic happens.

Alongside students’ agency, teachers serve an important role. “Our teachers here at ISHCMC are responsive to our learners,” Leanne noted. “We know when to gently step in, offer guidance, scaffold the learning, or make difficult decisions with our students because learning to make appropriate choices and navigate meaningful learning isn’t always easy; those muscles are still developing in our learners.”

Why the Early Years at ISHCMC Matter More Than Ever

The experiences a child has before the age of six set the tone for how they learn, relate, and engage with the world. That’s why families choose ISHCMC to give their children not just a preschool, but a purposeful, future-focused beginning. In an era where adaptability, collaboration, and creativity matter more than rote memorization, the ISHCMC Early Years program provides children with traits that define success now and in the future.

“Our students leave Early Years not only ‘ready for school,’ but eager for it,” Leanne said. “They are curious thinkers, confident communicators, and compassionate collaborators. They are children who feel safe to try, supported to grow, and inspired to lead.”

Intentional, Inquiry-Driven, Child-Centered

ISHCMC’s Early Years program draws from the Reggio Emilia approach and aligns with the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP). The teachers are experts in designing open-ended provocations, and curiosity-sparking scenarios tailored to children’s interests and developmental needs.

For example, during a Sharing the Planet unit, students transformed their classroom into a zoo to explore living things. When a student suggested the crocodile was hurt, the class embarked on a journey to learn about animal care, empathy, medical symbols, and veterinary roles. With each playful question, literacy, numeracy, and inquiry skills grew organically and meaningfully.

“Teachers here are not just observing—they’re documenting, assessing, and gently guiding,” Leanne explains. “Our goal is to cultivate children who can think, choose, and communicate for themselves. That doesn’t happen by chance. It’s intentional.”

Building Traits That Matter Most

Beyond academic milestones, ISHCMC’s Early Years program builds a child’s sense of self. Every child is seen, heard, and encouraged to take initiative, whether leading a line, helping a friend, or making food choices that support health and wellbeing.

Children learn to express ideas in a “hundred languages,” Leanne said, through art, music, movement, construction, role-play, storytelling, and more. With Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles embedded in daily life, every learner is supported, challenged, and celebrated for their individual growth.

And perhaps most importantly, students learn how to make and grow from mistakes. “We model and celebrate a growth mindset,” Leanne said. “Our students know that making a mistake means they’re learning. That’s the foundation of resilience.”

New, Calm Spaces That Encourage Curiosity and Pride

ISHCMC believes environments are the third teacher, and to encourage students’ curiosity and nurture their capabilities, the school recently renovated its Early Explorers spaces to be calm, natural areas that support the ways they learn best. From light-filled classrooms to soft textures, every detail has been thoughtfully curated to foster discovery and a sense of belonging. Inside the inviting spaces, children feel free and safe to explore, ask questions, and be themselves.

The renovation goes far beyond a new coat of paint. They reflect the school’s belief that children deserve to begin their learning journey in environments that are open and connected to nature. Thus, they are filled with wood, stone, fabric and sunlight, as opposed to distracting plastics, providing calm comfort.

Provocations to incite wonder are placed throughout the spaces. Free from fears of doing anything “wrong,” the items invite creative exploration. Whether it’s a set of blocks, a pile of leaves, or colorful tapestry, everything is an opportunity to discover and make meaning. As a whole, the rooms aim to give children a space that allows them to think and feel deeply in their own ways.

Significantly, the classrooms support connection with one another as the children develop understandings of self in relation to peers. Glass walls, shared spaces and collaborative moments support the critical aim of fostering healthy socializing at a young age. Meanwhile, ISHCMC believes that children’s thinking and learning should be made visible to themselves and others. Doing so allows them to reflect on as well as take pride in who they are becoming, so documents reflecting on-going learning and evolving projects cover the walls.

Early Explorers spaces are places of discovery and connection that lay the foundations of lifelong learning. Whether it’s the quiet confidence of solving a puzzle alone or the joy of working together, each moment is intentional.

“We are intentional in everything we do. We're building our students up so that they don't need us, and I know that's a hard thing for some of us adults to hear, but when they get there, that's when you know you've done a good job,” Leanne noted. Indeed, the resilient, inquisitive, and kind adults all parents want their children to become are influenced by their earliest experiences.

How many stores do you need to visit to find all the toys, beauty and skincare products, accessories, stationery, food and beverage, and lifestyle items you are craving? OH!SOME, a retail brand newly arrived in Vietnam, aims to make it just one.

This mission was made clear on June 20, 2025, when OH!SOME opened the doors of its flagship one-stop store in Vincom Center Đồng Khởi.

The first thing guests will notice when entering OH!SOME is its sheer size. At 2,000 square meters with sections carefully and clearly delineated based on product type, it represents a pleasing departure from typically crowded and confusing shopping outlets in the city. With wide aisles, colorful displays, bright lighting, and creative arrangements, it’s easy to locate exactly what one is searching for while also supporting comfortable browsing. Designed like a chocolate factory, signature yellow and other candy-like colors stand out alongside chocolate cube-shaped pillars, mirrored walls, and plush backdrops to serve as appealing social media photo backdrops

In addition to its size and intuitive layout, OH!SOME distinguishes itself from traditional stores by selling unique items, including exclusive collections resulting from a long-term partnership with Disney in 2024. Winnie the Pooh and a seaside-themed Stitch collection are sold alongside anime favorites like Haikyu!! and Attack on Titan collectibles. Catering to shoppers of all ages, the inventory also includes Korean, Chinese, and Japanese beauty products that have achieved viral status as well as practical yet stylish daily items tailored to local lifestyles. Young children can enjoy a full range of thrill-enducing toys and blind boxes.

The flagship store in Vincom Center Đồng Khởi is the seventh OH!SOME outlet in Vietnam. While new here, the brand has already made a name for itself abroad, with more than 110 offline stores across Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Cambodia. Committed to becoming a global brand, its products aim to offer the best from around the world. A membership program with offline engagements such as DIY workshops further aim for a sense of local community. 

Shopping in OH!SOME can best be likened to browsing TikTok Shop or Shoppee but in real life. Fun, colorful, dynamic and engaging, it comforts visitors with the idea that what’s missing in their soul can be purchased at an affordable price.  Or in the words of the brand itself: "The name "OH!SOME" is a playful blend of the words "OH!" and "Awesome." It captures that spontaneous moment of surprise and delight — the feeling we want our customers to experience every time they step into our stores, discover something new from our brand, or use our products in their daily lives."

Beach or mountains? Entertainment-rich city, sleepy small town charm or secluded resort? Accommodations with opportunities for luxurious indulgences or cozy spaces for bonding? When planning vacations, families are often forced to choose between many good options. Some places, however, allow travelers to have a little bit of everything.

Summer holidays are understandably associated with beach getaways filled with sunrays and calm waters. Whether coming from abroad or landlocked locales, Vietnam’s long coastline is an obvious destination. Within this long stretch of land, Đà Nẵng has emerged as the most popular destination thanks to its clean beaches and vibrant city life that offers world-class dining and cultural explorations. Its international airport is mere minutes from the coast, allowing travelers to dip their toes in the sand soon after touching down.

Saigoneer relishes any opportunity to explore Đà Nẵng and fill afternoons with lovingly brewed tea, adventurous forays into the sea aboard a surfboard, or poking about to find interesting pastimes. The food, both local specialties and international trends, is fantastic as well. But sometimes the city feels a bit hectic, and the looming skyscrapers distract us from the calm sky stretching over the ocean. In such situations, we prefer to cruise down the coast a bit for quieter lodging.

Danang Marriott Resort & Spa, Non Nuoc Beach Villas is a haven of mango trees and lakes that extend to a serene beachfront. Emphasizing natural beauty and quiet spaces, it rests just 30 minutes south of Đà Nẵng. One can enjoy the many virtues of the metropolis before or after venturing to the resort, which contains 122 private villas ideal for gathering as a family to connect. The spacious, sunlight-filled living rooms invite loved ones to gather around a board game or movie with enough space for children to spread out toys and activities, while private bedrooms and bathrooms allow for some alone time.

More than just a place to rest one’s head while exploring the beautiful surroundings, Danang Marriott Non Nuoc Beach Villas contains a great number of activities for all ages and interests. The Beach Lounge is replete with games including a pool table, a large screen television for live sports, a beach area for family movies, and a pool with basketball nets. Meanwhile, a beautifully shaded tennis court and spacious paths for cycling and running accommodate sporty guests. Those preferring sedentary pampering will appreciate the on-site Quan Spa Non Nuoc that lets adults pamper themselves with a full range of treatments that rely on creams, lotions and even hot stones from the nearby environment.

Central Vietnam is home to a great number of fresh, delicious dishes, including mì quảng, bún chả cá and bánh xèo along with international foods served at an increasingly long list of Michelin-recognized restaurants. Danang Marriott Resort & Spa, Non Nuoc Beach Villas honors these local flavors while offering interpretations of the fresh seafood and central spices within their expansive portfolio of dining options. 

The Beach House Restaurant serves elevated meals from 5:30pm that incorporate freshly caught fish and crustaceans alongside steak, while the morning buffet at Man Ho has dedicated stations to introduce guests to regional specialties as well as an expansive array of global items from Korea, India and the West. Coldbrew coffee made with locally sourced coffee is a can’t-miss treat, but the most special dining opportunity involves a full spread of grilled seafood, sides, and drinks enjoyed in one’s private villa with calming waves in the distance.

While Đà Nẵng beckons like a bright light to the North, there is much to explore around the resort in other directions as well. Marble Mountain, an attraction that draws visitors from around the world, is ever present in the background. And only slightly further down the road is Hội An. It’s UNESCO-recognized Old Town’s lanterns are even better than in photos, and acquire profound beauty when seen surrounded by lanterns in the river. Outside of the tourist areas, vast rice fields tended by water buffalo and gardens teeming with fresh vegetables harken back to a simpler way of life. Danang Marriott Resort & Spa, Non Nuoc Beach Villas makes exploring these areas particularly easy by packing delicious lunches that include fresh coffee or small batch gin drinks made with local ingredients. They can even arrange transportation and guides to make the exploration as easy and comfortable as possible.

Planning a vacation where all family members can leave with priceless memories can be stressful, particularly when people have different interests, habits, and desires. Selecting a resort conveniently placed between Đà Nẵng and Hội An allows everyone to find activities they enjoy. Danang Marriott Resort & Spa, Non Nuoc Beach Villas goes a step further by providing relaxation, entertainment and culinary joys surrounded by blissfully serene nature. 

In a dining scene rapidly evolving toward global recognition, chef Francis Thuận Trần emerges as a distinctive voice—passionate, uncompromising, and deeply rooted in Vietnamese culinary identity.

With Nephele, his debut restaurant recently honored as Michelin Selected in June 2025 alongside the Sommelier Award for co-founder Paul Võ, Thuận crafts not only meticulously layered dishes but entire experiences that resonate with authenticity, innovation, and soul. From his signature mastery of poultry to his thoughtful approach to sustainability and team-building, Thuận is helping elevate Vietnam’s fine dining narrative while remaining grounded in purpose and personal integrity.

Saigoneer sat down with Thuận to learn more about his journey, philosophy, and vision for the future of Vietnamese cuisine.

Chef Thuận Trần preparing a dish at Nephele.

Looking back on your career, what are you most proud of?

I’ve been in this profession for 15 years and have never once regretted choosing this path. It has been a journey with clear direction — challenging at times, but I’ve been fortunate to overcome each hurdle and arrive at where I am today: running my own restaurant and being warmly embraced by our guests.

I take pride in the unwavering support I’ve received from my family, friends, and colleagues. To me, determination is the key to success. I’ve made a lifelong commitment to this craft — it’s a marriage, and I intend to honor it for life.

How would you describe yourself as a chef?

I’ve been organized since childhood — an invaluable habit that helps me manage a multitude of tasks, particularly in the ideation and execution phases of Nephele.

I’m also a perfectionist, constantly striving to deliver the best possible guest experience. I dissect every misstep, share insights with the team, and maintain high standards, never compromising for convenience. The intense period of launching and building Nephele has been both mentally and physically taxing. Now, I’m looking to return to my culinary roots and find a financial planner to support the business side.

I’m also learning to embrace pauses — sometimes it’s better to stop and breathe rather than push too fast.

What inspired you to create Nephele, and how does it reflect your personal growth as a chef?

I’ve always dreamed of having a restaurant that expresses my own personality and style. Amidst a competitive F&B landscape filled with big names, I’ve remained steadfast in my philosophy: deeply understanding local ingredients and aiming to elevate Vietnamese cuisine to a regional level.

One feature I’m particularly proud of is our well-curated bar, Ethereal. It offers guests a unique pre-dinner experience — light bites and elegant beverages before they ascend to the main dining room. Our non-alcoholic menu, crafted by bar manager Hùng Lê, is another highlight that reflects our commitment to inclusivity and innovation.

Nephele has materialized exactly as I envisioned — and that brings me immense pride and joy.

Nephele's Kitchen Hall (left) and Ethereal Bar (right).

What do you think has contributed to Nephele’s success so far?

My personal growth and the passion of my young team.

I’ve applied everything I’ve learned from working in both Vietnam and abroad, adapting operations to align with Vietnamese culture and the skill levels of our local team. I introduced a new, structured workflow for our staff, designed to foster autonomy, mutual respect, accountability, transparency, and a deeper understanding of our offerings.

Having previously handled financial management for a previous restaurant, I’m also able to allocate budgets wisely and develop flexible solutions. My background in civil engineering has further helped me forecast and manage construction costs effectively.

Nephele's Head Sommelier, Paul Võ, winner of the Michelin 2025 Sommelier Award.

In today’s challenging economic climate, what is your strategy for attracting guests?

I focus 50% on affluent local diners with a cultivated palate, and 50% on tourists. After seven months in operation, our targeted marketing for these two segments has proven effective, as seen in our booking numbers. I’ve set a goal for Nephele to be among the top 10 must-visit culinary destinations in Saigon, especially since many visitors stay only two or three nights.

I’m fortunate to have Paul Võ, our Co-Founder and Head Sommelier, whose deep knowledge of wines and beverages enhances our offerings. He curates private events for VIP guests and ensures every dining experience at Nephele is elevated.

What ingredient do you take the most pride in working with?

Poultry. That’s my sweet spot. Some guests even call me “the bird man” (laughs).

I’ve so far never received a single complaint about my poultry dishes. I believe the reason comes from my understanding of the ingredient, particularly when it comes to roasting.

The pigeon dish on our current menu uses fresh three-week-old pigeons delivered daily from a local farm in Ho Chi Minh City. I roast them using a technique inspired by Chinese cuisine — achieving crispy skin not by glazing with honey, but by air-drying to let the moisture evaporate. The drying time varies depending on the bird — squab, duck, or wild duck. Too long, and the meat oxidizes and discolours. For instance, pigeons should only be dried for four days.

Nephele's tomato (left) and trout nasturium (right).

How do you balance tradition and innovation in your dishes?

Creativity, for me, must begin with a deep understanding of tradition. I analyze a dish’s origins, context, and evolution and then select the elements that resonate most with the present moment to reinterpret it in a way that remains rooted but refreshingly new.

How do you incorporate sustainability and seasonality into your menu design?

Human nutrition mirrors our teeth — some are flat, some are pointed. We need about 40% protein; the rest should come from grains and fruits. That’s the philosophy behind my menu structure.

From the beginning, I’ve been intentional about ingredient selection and reuse. Take our sourdough bread, for example. Made with an 8-year-old yeast, it’s freshly baked each day and offers health benefits. Leftover bread is repurposed into a miso paste served with the bread itself, doubling the flavor profile.

Meanwhile, our bar helps minimize waste by turning unused kitchen ingredients into cocktail components.

Maintaining balance is vital; today’s menus can’t lean too heavily toward meat or too far into plant-based. It must be thoughtful and holistic.

What are today’s discerning diners seeking in terms of flavour, texture, and storytelling?

Our target guests — upper-middle-class and above — come from both older and younger generations, with broad culinary exposure.

It’s extremely challenging to satisfy both groups. That’s why I believe a chef must stay true to their identity while also being transparent about ingredient provenance. Health and integrity must go hand in hand.

What excites you most about the evolution of Vietnam’s dining scene?

Vietnam’s F&B sector is on an upward trajectory. I see us now where Thailand once was — experiencing steady, compound growth. I genuinely don’t see much risk in this industry at the moment.

Saturation is still a long way off, unlike markets such as Bangkok, Singapore, or Hong Kong, which are becoming overcrowded. Diners are now turning their attention to Southeast Asian countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam.

Since Nephele opened seven months ago, we haven’t had to absorb a single day of loss.

Is there a dream you’re working toward in the near future?

I’m hoping to launch a new dining concept by the end of 2025 or early next year — one with a completely different character from Nephele. At the same time, I’m actively searching for new talents for Nephele, so I can shift my focus back to culinary creativity. I’ve also teamed up with a local chef in town to form a research group focused on ingredients and recipe development, with plans for collaborative pop-up events in 2026.

The Nephele team.

“It’s the spark behind a love of learning and the foundation of everything we do,” This is how Dr. Tosca Killoran, Deputy Head of School, described inquiry-based learning at International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC). “When students are encouraged to lean into their curiosity, even when it leads to mistakes, it builds real excitement for exploration, questioning, and discovery.” she continued.

Indeed, the school’s promotion of inquiry-based learning allows students to flourish academically while developing critical thinking and leadership skills as well as a sense of global citizenship that helps them progress to bright futures. 

Dr. Tosca speaks to ISHCMC community in the school's performing arts center. 

How Inquiry-Based Learning Differs From Traditional Education

The world’s leading education experts have long moved on from endorsing students memorizing facts and details to repeat back to teachers. Instead, an approach that forefronts student explorations of high-level questions and real-world experiences has proven to best nurture curiosity, develop critical thinking skills, and improve retention of important information. Teachers serve as facilitators and mentors who pose questions for students to approach individually and collectively, stepping in as needed to guide their learning process. 

Poking your head into a class that employs inquiry-based learning may be unfamiliar at first. Students are rarely lined up at their desks, writing down material from a board at the front of the room. Rather, they are dispersed in small groups debating topics, interacting with multimedia or not even in the classroom at all, but out on a field trip. These textbook-free moments reveal how the goal of learning shouldn’t be an ability to regurgitate information, but to expand one’s understanding via a cross-disciplinary and collaborative search for answers. The complexity of these questions and the freedom to seek answers is of course, dependent on each student’s age and situation, with teachers closely monitoring so they can “really understand each student’s needs and tailor the learning experience to what will support their growth most effectively,” Dr. Killoran said. 

Dr. Killoran offered an example that helps clarify what inquiry-based learning looks like and how it can enable meeting all the educational standards set forth by esteemed International Baccalaureate (IB) Programmes. “Instead of just reading about fish swimming upstream, students go to the river themselves. They investigate which species are present, whether they’re indigenous, how the river flows, and why. In doing so, they engage in authentic data collection, pattern recognition, hypothesis testing, and spatial reasoning. These skills directly address ACARA Science and AERO Math standards. Inquiry like this isn’t free-form; it’s deeply grounded in clear learning objectives and international benchmarks. The difference is, students meet those standards through meaningful, hands-on exploration that sticks.”

Through inquiry-based learning, ISHCMC students master all the conventional math, science, language, and history skills that universities and careers will require, but they develop much more. The ISHCMC curriculum is guided by the IB scope and sequence and firmly grounded in internationally recognized standards, including AERO and ACARA, ensuring both depth and global rigor. A search for answers requires students to become adept critical thinkers with robust problem-solving skills. They can work independently but also collaboratively with strong interpersonal skills, allowing them to become confident in themselves and their abilities. Because they come to understand how not knowing an answer or being wrong is a necessary step in the journey, they are resilient in their search for solutions and self-assured once they reach conclusions. ISHCMC provides a safe space for students to make mistakes and grow, or, as Dr. Killoran put it: “putting yourself out there in uncertain situations is how one learns confidence.”

How Inquiry Yields Leadership Skills

Critical thinking, solution-oriented mindsets, effective communication, and a desire to collaborate are all skills developed by inquiry-based learning that make for effective leaders. Thus, leadership does not need to be taught as a specific skill, but is rather an intrinsic part of the learning process at ISHCMC. 

Students also become good leaders by observing good leadership. Dr. Killoran explained that having exceptional teachers follow the inquiry-based system themselves provides strong models. “When adults can say, ‘That’s a great question! I don’t know the answer, but let’s find out together,’ they model curiosity, research skills, and how to navigate information safely. Students don’t just hear about inquiry-based learning, they experience it through the way their teachers think, speak, and explore.” Better than merely being told an inquiry-based approach works, the students experience it in action.

Because ISHCMC expects that students take co-ownership of their learning, there is ample space for them to practice leadership within the regular curriculum. For example, Dr. Killoran shared that when creating the lessons for global citizenship, teachers provided students with a survey on what was important to them and what they wanted to explore. Those ideas were then incorporated into the learning plan. Each student needed to think through the impact of their choices on themselves and their peers and how the decision would support their learning.

As part of a holistic approach to development, ISHCMC provides many avenues to practice leadership outside the classroom as well. A wide variety of sports, clubs, and extracurricular activities allow students to explore their passions with a sense of independence that cultivates self-motivated leadership. Similarly, the IB culminates in a degree program that requires a CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) project wherein they interact with outside communities to make a tangible difference. 

How Global Citizenship is a Matter of Inquiry

Being a positive, contributing member of the world community requires an interplay of traits and perspectives. Empathy, communication, collaboration, and intercultural collaboration are all skills that inquiry-based learning cultivates that make global citizenship possible. Beyond the curriculum, ISHCMC excels in this respect in part because of the school’s diverse makeup. Currently, the student body represents more than 60 countries with different backgrounds, traditions, religions, experiences, and outlooks. 

When designing the questions and scenarios that shape each unit of inquiry, teachers intentionally draw from a wide range of cultures and global themes. This not only broadens students’ understanding of the world but also invites them to connect with and reflect on their own identities. Beyond the classroom, students regularly share their experiences with one another in ways that go “beyond flags, festivals, and food,” as Dr. Killoran put it. By the time they graduate, ISHCMC students have engaged with diverse perspectives and developed the open-mindedness needed to navigate a global society.

Happy, healthy, inspired students make the best learners, which is the ultimate goal of an ISHCMC inquiry-based education. “We want students who are energized, who feel real ownership of their learning, and who can’t stop talking about it,” Dr. Killoran said. “That kind of engagement is exactly what we’re aiming for.” The results of an inquiry-based system can be measured in more conventional ways, as well, with students scoring well above the global averages for the IBDP and the MAP (Measure of Academic Progress) Test before accepting offers to some of the world’s most prestigious universities with impressive scholarship offers. 

ISHCMC follows inquiry-based education not because it will produce these accomplishments, but rather, the accomplishments provide evidence of why it's the best approach to learning.

Leadership isn’t just taught, it’s lived at International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC). With a legacy spanning more than 30 years, ISHCMC has helped generations of students gain entry into top global universities and thrive as leaders in their fields while contributing to their communities. As it continues to elevate its academic vision, new Head of School, Marco Longmore, is providing the ISHCMC community with fresh guidance.

Confidence to Lead With Purpose

When discussing the character traits that ISHCMC cultivates in its students, Longmore used the phrase “confidence without arrogance.” He explained that students have “confidence in their sense of self and sense of place within their community,” which is essential for them to thrive personally and professionally after graduating. Equally important is their ability to contribute with humility. They know that “their success is built around a willingness to lead when required, but most often being willing to be a real contributor through the leadership of others,” he said.

Longmore also stressed that the school’s diversity is a core strength of its identity and educational approach. Students are individuals who cannot be contained within any specific demographic. They have unique backgrounds, perspectives, and needs. ISHCMC understands that fostering each student’s passions is essential for developing an appreciation for lifelong learning. A broad and flexible curriculum wherein students take a leadership role while also receiving the support and guidance of veteran teachers and peers nurtures their sense of determination. Formal and informal opportunities to explore areas of interest provide every child with “a sense of fun and enjoyment,” he says before noting “but that doesn’t mean it’s going to be easy.”

A Legacy of Success

Brown, Cornell, Oxford, the London School of Economics, the University of Toronto, Seoul National University, and Waseda are amongst recent placements for ISHCMC graduates. The school’s legacy also includes individuals who matriculated to Harvard, Yale, the University of Pennsylvania, University of California campuses, and the University of Chicago, with an emphasis on destinations that are the right fit for students, regardless of rankings. Such accomplishments help prove the school’s holistic approach to student-led, inquiry-based learning truly readies them to take the next step, as assessed by some of the most strict admissions offices in the world.

While these universities represent doors to incredible opportunities, Longmore cautions that an open door is only useful if students have the means to step through it. Thus, ISHCMC places great care and attention on helping students receive scholarship support. A robust university counselor program combined with decades of experience helped the 84-student graduating class of 2024 receive more than US$56 million in scholarships across 1,100 offers in 22 countries.

More than just the ability to thrive at some of the world’s greatest universities, students have critical thinking skills, inquisitive mindsets, and collaborative abilities reflective of deep and meaningful learning that will ultimately take them much further than a test result or university. They will be able to adapt to and lead in the uncertain decades ahead. Confident in themselves, the students are excited for what’s ahead. Longmore says, “They are sad to leave ISHCMC, but there is a sense that they are ready to move on.”

An Ambitious Curriculum with Measurable Success

ISHCMC’s holistic approaches to education result in clear and identifiable learning objectives that can be measured against international standards. For example, the class of 2024 averaged 34 points on the IBDP (International Baccalaureate Degree Program), which is well above the global average of 30 points. This is consistent with the school's performance over the last 30 years.

ISHCMC is Saigon’s first continuum International Baccalaureate (IB) school in the city, meaning students begin the globally recognized program that assesses university-preparedness from age three. Such consistency helps students best orient themselves to inquiry-based, creative approaches to problems that rarely have a single solution. Moreover, the school’s longstanding traditions and legacy of over 30 years of operation provide students with proven methods for the IB program and learning in general.

A key element of the IBDP is the Creativity, Activity, Service or CAS project. Emblematic of ISHCMC’s belief in the value of contributing, it requires students to lead or support an undertaking that embraces their creative and critical thinking for the benefit of a community within or outside the school. Recent examples include establishing a Library of Joy to introduce a culture of reading to students at a remote school in Đắk Lắk; working with Heartbeat Vietnam, which provides lifesaving surgeries to Vietnamese children in need; and helping conservation efforts for Vietnam’s threatened biodiversity with Wildlife at Risk. One current CAS project involves launching a social impact club at ISHCMC, which will join the school’s more than 60 organized events that have welcomed over 14,000 participants.

In order to develop graduates who are confident individuals driven by unique interests and united by core values of compassion and resilience, the school must be able to observe, evaluate, and understand skill development. One essential tool for this is the MAP (Measure of Academic Progress) Test, administered twice a year from Grade 3 to Grade 10. The individual results allow teachers, students, and families to collaborate on goals, learning plans, supplemental materials, and strategies for improvement. Here, ISHCMC excels as well, with Primary School students ranking in the top 1% globally for growth in MAP Math and Reading, underscoring how strong academic performance begins at a young age and continues throughout a student’s development.

Another important means for showcasing academic growth occurs during formal meetings between students, parents, and teachers. These student-led events allow children to not only show off what they’ve learned but also reveal how they confidently take ownership of their education with enthusiasm. The meetings also allow parents to better know the teachers. These highly qualified professionals, 60% of whom have Master’s degrees and 100% have teaching certifications, are essential for the school to reach their academic goals. As Longmore puts it, “to eat a great meal, you must have the best ingredients.”

In the same way a single score or university offer cannot serve as proof for a complete education, no single student could epitomize an ISHCMC graduate. The young adults are simply too unique in their backgrounds, passions, and individual talents to be reduced to an archetype. They do, however, share many skills and traits. They are humble, purposeful leaders eager to build a better tomorrow for themselves and their communities. To sum these traits up, Longmore turned to another Scotsman, the poet Sir Walter Scott, to describe what this means: “The will to do, the soul to dare.” He says ISHCMC grads have the lifelong will to start important tasks every morning and the soul to continue them until completed well.