Azerai Founder Adrian Zecha Vision for the Boutique Hotel Brand

Azerai Founder Adrian Zecha Vision for the Boutique Hotel Brand

A Legacy of Hospitality Innovation

Adrian Zecha, the legendary hotelier behind some of the world’s most iconic hospitality brands, recently visited Azerai Resorts in Vietnam, reaffirming his passion for creating meaningful travel experiences. At 92, the founder of both Aman Resorts and Azerai shows no sign of slowing down. “I can’t just sit there and do nothing. Life should be used to create and explore,” he said with a smile during his visit.

His journey brought him to the elegant Azerai Ke Ga Bay, a 56-key beachfront resort south of Ho Chi Minh City, and to Azerai La Residence, Hue, a historic Art Deco mansion overlooking the Perfume River. These two properties reflect the brand’s philosophy: blending luxury with local culture, tranquility, and a deep sense of place.

Azerai Ke Ga Bay – Serenity by the Sea

Azerai Resorts Vietnam in Ke Ga Bay

Opened in 2020, Azerai Ke Ga Bay offers a rare mix of modern comfort and natural beauty. The resort stretches along five kilometers of pristine beach framed by lush ginger gardens. Guests can watch local fishermen at work each morning, a reminder of Vietnam’s authentic coastal traditions.

Recently awarded “Most Instagrammable Hotel in Asia” by Luxury Travel Advisor and named by The Times as one of Southeast Asia’s best boutique hotels, Azerai Ke Ga Bay is both stylish and soulful. Its secluded setting is perfect for couples and families seeking peaceful luxury.

Azerai La Residence, Hue – History Meets Elegance

Azerai La Residence, Hue

Nine hundred kilometers north, Azerai La Residence, Hue is a living piece of history. Once the residence of the French colonial governor, the 122-room mansion captures timeless elegance with its Art Deco design.

Guests can take slow cruises along the Perfume River, exploring Hue’s ancient citadel, temples, and pagodas. Inside the hotel, vintage interiors and a tranquil garden create a contrast with the bustling city life just outside its gates. Recognized by Time Magazine as one of the “World’s 100 Greatest Places” and praised by The Times of London, it remains one of Vietnam’s most remarkable boutique stays.

The Spirit of Azerai

Adrian Zecha at Azerai Ke Ga Bay, Vietnam’s boutique beachfront resort

For Zecha and his long-time partner Jonathan Breene, Azerai is not defined by a formula but by a vision: thoughtful luxury rooted in local culture, nature, and authenticity. Each property feels unique, yet both reflect the brand’s understated elegance and connection to place.

Zecha credits his team for the continued success of Azerai. “I lead fantastic people who will carry on these legacies,” he said. His words echo his belief that great hospitality is about people, culture, and creating memorable journeys.

For more information or to make a booking at Azerai Ke Ga Bay, call +84 (0) 252 3682 222, email reservations.kegabay@azerai.com or visit azerai.com/azerai-ke-ga-bay/.

For Azerai La Residence, Hue, call +84 (0) 234 3837 475, email reservations.laresidence.hue@azerai.com or visit azerai.com/azerai-la-residence-hue/.

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About the author

Thomas holds a university degree with a focus on Languages, Humanities, Culture, Literature, and Economics, earned in both the UK and Latin America. His journey in Asia began in 2005 when he worked as a publisher in Krabi. Over the past twenty years, Thomas has edited newspapers and magazines across England, Spain, and Thailand. Currently, he is involved in multiple projects both in Thailand and internationally. In addition to Thailand, Thomas has lived in Italy, England, Venezuela, Cuba, Spain, and Bali, but he spends the majority of his time in Asia. Through his diverse experiences, he has gained a deep understanding of various Asian cultures and communities. Thomas also works as a freelance writer, contributing short travel stories and articles to travel magazines. You can follow his work at www.asianitinerary.com

View all articles by Thomas Gennaro