Its eccentricity on show for all to see, this stylish spot stands pride of place between Hoàn Kiếm Lake, the Old Town and French Quarter in a capital rich in culture. Embodying a spirit that’s still in full swing a century on, the design concept – courtesy of architect Bill Bensley – reimagines the city’s operatic heritage in hotel form. Immersed in a theatre of maximalism, a stay at Capella Hanoi isn’t one you’ll easily forget.  

Tastefully switching the modish less is more for more is more, rooms are a lesson in elegant grandeur. Marrying modernity with the timeless authenticity of Vietnamese interiors, an exquisite attention to detail truly sets the stage for a performance. High in the rafters (or between us, the top floor), four magnificent Opera suites are an artistic tribute to individual librettos. Each complete with an expansive terrace, choose between The Prince of Tartary, Turandot, Scheherazade or Madama Butterfly. 

Backstage – the impressively named signature restaurant – feast on the flavours of northern Vietnamese cuisine in the company of elaborate costumes. Here, Opera isn’t celebrated in an abstract sense, preferring to pay tribute to the artists, composers and designers themselves, displayed most of all in the Diva Bar. A date with classic 20s cocktails and succulent small plates awaits, in a glamourous venue dedicated to the women who altered the course of Opera with their craft. Though perhaps if the programme requires a more pared-back evening, we may suggest Michelin-starred Koki, with its minimalist setting, for Teppanyaki and Izakaya fine dining, followed by cocktails and live jazz in the living room.