Imagine stepping into a world of ancient charm and modern luxury. Hoi An, a city in Vietnam, is a treasure trove of history and cultural fusion, evident in its unique architecture. Sturdy wooden homes with Japanese support joists, Chinese tiled roofs, French louvered shutters, and bright yellow walls line the city’s lantern-lit stone streets, canals, and bridges, a testament to its past as a bustling trading port. Hoi An’s unique story unfolds through the tale of Sotaro Araki, a Japanese merchant, and Princess Ngoc Hoa, a Vietnamese aristocrat, who fell in love and married in the late 1500s, blending cultures and traditions.
A Love Story Woven into Design
This captivating love story serves as the inspiration for the Hotel Royal Hoi An, a boutique hotel that pays homage to Hoi An’s rich heritage. The hotel’s second wing, named Wakaku after the princess’s Japanese name, embodies the feminine elegance of the princess’s life. Delicate, curved furniture, Tiffany blue pillows and paintings, a graceful bathtub surrounded by lavish curtains, and leaf-mold door handles evoke the princess’s refined taste.
The hotel’s first wing, named Sotaro, reflects the traditional Japanese aesthetic of the merchant. Rich, dark wood floors, latticework, and metal accouterments create a sense of sophisticated serenity. Lanterns, blending Japanese and Vietnamese styles, bathe the rooms in a soft, warm glow. Most rooms offer breathtaking views of the placid Thu Bon River, while large doors invite the cool breeze to sweep through. The same ambiance extends to the main lobby, where guests can savor welcome tea in stately plush chairs beneath ceiling mirrors accented with Japanese leaf paintings.
A City Centre Oasis
While many five-star resorts are being built in the area, Hotel Royal stands apart by being situated right in the city center. A short stroll along the river takes guests to the Old Town, where they can explore original architectural styles, browse famous tailor and leather shops, and indulge in authentic cuisine, such as cao lầu (thick noodles with pork and local greens) and bánh bao – bánh vạc, delicate, handmade dumplings.
A Haven of Relaxation
Even though Hoi An offers an abundance of sights and experiences, Hotel Royal provides ample reasons to linger within its walls. The large Art Nouveau style pool shimmers with the light reflecting off its tiles, like dowry jewels. The Woosah Spa offers beautifying and refreshing treatments, while the full fitness center provides a haven for guests to exercise in cool peace.
A Culinary Journey Through Time
The story of Sotaro and Wakaka extends even to the dining options at Hotel Royal. The Wakaka restaurant serves fresh sashimi and sushi dishes, a tribute to the princess’s Japanese heritage. The Faifo restaurant, named after the city’s moniker among foreign traders, serves a delectable array of Vietnamese and Western dishes, including Hoi An specialties. A complimentary breakfast buffet offers a tantalizing selection of dim sum, omelets, lotus root salads, quiche, and pad thai.
Majestic Views and Unforgettable Memories
Hotel Royal takes full advantage of its prime location with the highest rooftop bar and pool in the city. As the sunset streaks the sky with opal colors, the fading light glints off the ceramic roofs of the Old Town, brightly colored boats paddle up the Thu Bon, surrounded by bright lanterns, and light falls calmly on the lush mountains in the distance. The majestic views of the river and town from the pool bar provide guests with a glimpse of the heritage and charm of this unique destination.
A Gateway to Hoi An’s Soul
Hoi An’s distinct architectural style and vibe make it a must-see destination for local and international tourists. Hotel Royal stands as the ideal place to explore this captivating city, offering a glimpse into its rich history and cultural tapestry. The hotel’s carefully designed and individually decorated rooms connect guests to the city’s heritage through the story of Wakaka and Sotaro while pampering them with the finest service, meals, and amenities, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
