Caravelle was opened in 1959 by Air France and the Australian government.

With 10 floors, it was the highest hotel in Vietnam at that time. It was fully equipped with modern facilities such as air-conditioning and had marble floors imported from Italy. In particular, the hotel was protected by bulletproof glass.

In late 1975, it was renamed Doc Lap (Independence). In October 1992, the name Caravelle was used again, aiming to revive the golden age. A 24-storey building was built next to the old one to expand business operations.

From 1960 to 1975 was the severe period of the Vietnam War. At that time all the major news agencies around the world had their offices in the hotel, such as Life, Associated Press, and CBS.

The restaurant on the first floor was the place where politicians and the elite gathered to discuss current events. From the terrace on the 10th floor, journalists could observe demonstrations and coups d’etat taking place before the Opera House or the Presidential Palace.

The coffee area on the third floor is now decorated in a nostalgic style and showcases many old photos of Saigon.

This is where the American CBS television channel was based. 

The hotel today has 335 luxury rooms, seven restaurants, and one spa. In 2001 it was used as a studio for the crew working on the film "The Quiet American" directed by Phillip Noyce.

The Saigon Bar has the best view as it overlooks the small square in front of the city theater. The hotel welcomed many famous guests such as former US President Bill Clinton and others.

Princess Anne of England, movie stars Michael Caine and Brendan Fraser (starring in the popular movie "The Quiet American"), and Brian Barron, a famous journalist who won many international awards.

Looking down from the 10th floor, you will see Dong Khoi Street, the most luxurious road in Saigon, and the old mall Eden (now Vincom) on the left, and the oldest hotel in Saigon, the Continental.