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Kempinski to make Vietnamese debut with riverside resort and spa designed by Kengo Kuma

03 May 2024
High-end five-star hotel company Kempinski Hotels is making its mark in Vietnam with a luxury waterfront property overlooking the Saigon River.

Set to open by 2026, Kempinski Saigon River – designed by Kengo Kuma & Associates – will feature 100 guestrooms and suites along with a 1,500sq m Resense Spa offering immersive wellness experiences rooted in local remedies.

Originally a joint venture between Kempinski and spa consultancy Raison d’Etre, wellness consultancy Resense was acquired by Kempinski in 2021 to strengthen its wellness strategy.

Resense continues to operate independently, with Kempinski using Resense's infrastructure and expertise to more deeply integrate wellbeing into its hotels.

Beyond wellness, guests at Kempinski Saigon River will have access to a collection of dining venues including all-day dining and a signature Vietnamese restaurant, as well as a riverside bar and executive Lounge.

The hotel is currently being developed in cooperation with Vietnamese property developer Ecopark Corporation, which owns other luxury hotels across the country and has a portfolio of real estate projects that include residences, schools, retail and universities.

“Kempinski has been present in Asia since 1992, but we’re extremely proud to be now entering the exciting market of Vietnam with this truly unique hotel,” says René Nijhof, chair of the Board of Directors, Kempinski.

“Inspired by the spectacular cultural and natural landscape of southern Vietnam, Kengo Kuma & Associates has reimagined life on the river. Together with the presence of Ecopark Corporation, we’re redefining riverside luxury for a new generation of travellers who demand authenticity and heartfelt local experiences.”

Landscaping by Bangkok-based landscape architecture and design studio PLA will follow the gentle curves of the river and perpendicular canal, with bridges, ponds and manicured gardens creating a seamless connection to nature throughout the hotel.

Situated in Dong Nai on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City, Kempinski Saigon River is part of a broader 55-hectare development called Ecovillage Saigon River that will also feature residences, schools, a sports club and retail areas along 700 metres of riverfront, connected to Ho Chi Minh City via a 45-minute speedboat ride.

Dong Nai itself is currently undergoing a major infrastructure expansion and improvement project designed to reduce travel times and foster economic growth, including improvements to the road and railway networks, improved waterways and a new airport.

More about Kempinski
Created in 1897, Kempinski Hotels is claimed to be Europe’s oldest luxury hotel group.

Today, the Kempinski Group operates 82 hotels and residences in 35 countries and currently has more than 28 projects under development around the globe.


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