Phillippe Le Bourhis, Hotel des Arts Saigon, M Gallery Collection

Philippe Le Bourhis, General Manager of Hôtel des Arts Saigon talks about the evolution of Vietnam’s luxury hospitality scene and its bright future as a premier travel destination in Southeast Asia.
Philippe, a seasoned hotelier with 35 years of experience in the luxury industry, shares his incredible journey as a Frenchman in Southeast Asia and reflects on his time living in Indonesia before making Vietnam his home.
Throughout the conversation, he delves into the charm of his favorite cities, including Ho Chi Minh City—where locals often debate whether to call it Saigon or Ho Chi Minh. Philippe offers an exclusive look at Hôtel des Arts Saigon, an M Gallery Collection Hotel, and an architectural masterpiece that blends French Indochine elegance with modern luxury.
With its meticulously curated art collection, timeless interiors, and a rooftop bar offering breathtaking views, the hotel embodies the sophistication of a bygone era while catering to the needs of today’s discerning traveler. The influence of French culture is deeply embedded in the hotel’s architecture, food, and wine selection, making it a true embodiment of the French-Vietnamese fusion that defines Saigon.
A key highlight is the highly anticipated Albion restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Kirk Westaway, best known for his modern interpretation of British cuisine at JAAN in Singapore. This exciting addition to Hôtel des Arts Saigon is poised to redefine the city's fine dining scene, bringing a sophisticated yet approachable culinary experience that blends contemporary European flavors with locally inspired ingredients.
Philippe discusses the impact of Michelin-starred dining on Vietnam’s culinary reputation, emphasizing the new opportunities it has created for the country’s food scene.
Philippe highlights the growing emphasis on wellness, dietary preferences, and cultural immersion among luxury travelers.
Philippe reflects on Vietnam’s resilience and entrepreneurial spirit, which have allowed the country to bounce back from the pandemic stronger than ever, drawing in travelers who seek not just luxury but also meaningful, immersive experiences.
As Vietnam cements its place on the world stage as a high-end travel destination, Philippe explains what sets it apart. From its rich cultural heritage and dynamic cities to its pristine landscapes and world-class hospitality offerings, Vietnam is poised to rival regional hotspots like Thailand and Bali. The conversation touches on the evolving expectations of luxury travelers, with a shift toward authentic, sustainable, and highly personalized experiences—from exclusive wellness retreats in the countryside to private yacht excursions in Ha Long Bay.
Philippe also shares personal insights from his extensive career in luxury hospitality, reflecting on his experiences managing elite hotels across Southeast Asia, what he has learned from staying in some of the most exclusive properties in the region, and how he keeps up with ever-changing travel trends. He leaves listeners with a powerful piece of advice: “Dare to travel and embrace destiny.”
This is an insightful conversation that will leave you inspired to experience Vietnam’s vibrant culture, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional dining firsthand.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
1:03 - Philippe’s Journey, A Frenchman in Southeast Asia
2:18 - Life in Indonesia where he previusly lived
3:31 - Philippe’s Favorite Cities
06:11 - Ho Chi Minh City or Saigon?
6:50 - Hotel Des Arts Saigon: Luxury & French-Vietnamese Elegance
7:38 - French Influence: architecture, food and wine
9:37 - Michelin-Star Dining: Kirk Westaway’s British Restaurant
11:00 - The opportunities Michelin has brought to the country
11:42 - Post-COVID Travel Trends: Wellness, Dietary & Culture
13:07 - Vietnam’s Resilience & Entrepreneurial Spirit
13:42 - Wellness service at Hotel Des Arts Saigon
14:09 - Hotel Des Arts Saigon's current client base
15:10 - What does Vietnam bring to the table?
16:27 - Philippe’s Career path
17:44 - Philippe’s hotel stay in SE Asia
18:50 - Philippe’s background
20:13 - Keeping up with travel trends
20:46 - Advice: Dare to Travel & Embrace Destiny
22:20 - 35 years of being in luxury industry
23:55 - Outro
SUBSCRIBE above to this YouTube Channel, Where2FromHere for the best and latest regular luxury travel updates. For collaborations, contact us at: renaemanos@mac.com
Host: Renae Leith-Manos
Editor: Angga Kuntara
Content Writer: Virginia Zhang
Graphic & Design: Rebecca Wilkinson

For more luxury travel go to: www.renaesworld.com.au
For more information on Hotel des Arts: https://www.hoteldesartssaigon.com/
Check out our luxury travel instagram: @renaesworldofficial
For Luxury Hotel Consulting: www.luxuryhotelconsulting.com
Watch every episode with spectacular visuals from some of the world’s best and most luxurious hotels over on Renae’s YouTube channel, “Renae’s World, Where2FromHere”.