Since its foundation in 2008, Fusion Hotel Group has grown into one of Vietnam’s – and now also Thailand’s – premier hospitality groups, with about 4,000 rooms in 16 hotels and resorts across the two countries.
While the group has largely focused on blending luxury with wellness through its signature all-spa-inclusive model, its new brand, Fusion Originals, is set to take things in a new, art-fuelled direction.
When Fusion Original Saigon Centre opens its doors to travelers in July, the property will become the flagship of the company’s new concept – to create experiences where each differs almost entirely from the last, all under one brand name.
While the majority of luxury hotels base their design on being able to fit in anywhere in the world while clinging to their own brand image, Fusion Original Saigon Centre is all about pride of place in Saigon. It aims to offer luxury experiences whilst steeping visitors in the city’s rich narrative – both modern and historical.
Inspired by local art and culture
From the entrance to the wall art, every feature of Fusion Original Saigon Centre takes its cue from the vibrant tapestry of its surrounding city. The entrance and lobby spurn the wide-open efforts of most luxury hotels. Rather, the narrow entrance is reminiscent of the city’s signature narrow alleyways, or Hẻm, which hide many of Saigon’s best-kept secrets. Like the tens of thousands of hẻm snaking through the city, much is hinted at, but little is revealed by the blank picture frames on the walls and limited view of the lobby.
And like many of those hẻm, the narrow entrance gives way to a more airy yet still cozy space. It’s packed with unique décor, and characterized by colors equally soft and bold – shades of red, brown, and gold. Though the design offers a sense of comfort upon arrival, the whimsical color layout and use of floor-to-ceiling poly-art pattern add layers of fun, while depictions of Vietnamese women in traditional áo dài, a hint at the vibrance to be found while exploring the city.
The nod to the country’s narrative is also on full display in the property’s all-day restaurant, Miss Thu, where the chefs pay homage to the local culinary heritage and add an upscale twist. Here, the ceiling lighting installations take inspiration from traditional nón quai thao hats, the walls feature traditional hand fans and the ancient Đông Sơn drum of the northern Red River Delta.
Connecting visitors to the narrative
Embedding visitors into the narrative of Saigon and Vietnam as a whole, rather than offering shelter from it, is all part of the Fusion Hotel Group’s mission with its new brand. “Travelers these days want to connect with a story; they want to feel part of the distinct narrative of a place,” says Kevin Beauvais, CEO of Fusion Hotel Group.
“Traditionally guests found that story outside of their hotel,” he goes on, “But with Fusion Originals, we want to inject visitors directly into the plot with hotels that boldly embrace their inspiration and leave guests wanting to talk about where they stayed as much as the local sights.”
With so many features of Saigon’s culture woven into the design itself, the property’s location alone allows visitors to easily plug into the city around them. It’s based in the modern Saigon Centre, alongside the popular Takashimaya Mall, and offers spectacular views of the city in all directions.
Such a central location allows visitors access to the bustling city life within a few steps away. Ben Thanh Market is just 300 meters down the newly reopened Le Loi street, Saigon Opera House, the storied Dong Khoi street, and Nguyen Hue boulevard are just as close in the opposite direction, while the Reunification Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral are less than ten minutes away on foot.
Business travelers are just as primely positioned as tourists too. As well as being located in a thriving commercial building, some of the city’s other major business hotspots – Vincom Center and Bitexco Tower, are just a few minutes away.
Luxury remains at the core
For all the Fusion Hotel Group’s exploits in honoring the property’s home city, luxury service and amenities are still right at the top of the priority list.
All of its 99 bespoke accommodation units, from Original to Deluxe to Two-Bedroom Executive Suites, are spacious and elegantly designed, offering panoramic views, workspaces, barista stations, a snack-filled Reload Pantry, as well as plenty of entertainment options.
When a moment of solitude from the vibrant Saigon life is needed, The Nest, an exclusive guest lounge, offers a secluded, luxury escape from city life, while guests can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool on the sixth floor – a fantastic place to take in the city from a distance and recharge.
In keeping with the Fusion Hotel Group’s commitment to health and wellness, there’s also complimentary access for guests to the state-of-the-art California Centuryon Fitness, also located on the 6th floor.
For solo travelers who want more from their stay, couples in need of more location and travel convenience, or busy professionals wishing to soak up the city without compromising work, Fusion Original Saigon Centre is looking ready not just to meet their needs, but to showcase its own personality, and the personality of the city, to make for a unique stay.