He visited Vietnam in July to explore the potential for high-end lifestyle experiences.
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Tom Parker Bowles participated in afternoon tea and a food show. Photo courtesy of News Licensing |
Why do you see Da Lat as a promising destination for elite luxury services?
I arrived in Vietnam at the end of July for a trip that combined work and leisure. After the hustle and energy of Ho Chi Minh City, reaching Da Lat felt like entering a completely different world. HCMC is frenetic, youthful, and fast-paced. In contrast, Da Lat is gentle, unhurried, and imbued with a calming sense of peace.
I was in town for a prelaunch event introducing what will become Vietnam’s first private, members-only club for the elite—a place to savor life and rejuvenate mind, body, and spirit. Its cool climate, tranquil setting, and natural beauty won me over immediately.
With its rich natural heritage, Da Lat has all the ingredients of a world-class destination: privacy, elegance, and exclusivity. It’s the kind of place where membership means belonging, not simply paying, much like the elite clubs of London, New York, or Hong Kong.
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Da Lat, with its many beautiful sceneries, is in the top 3 most beautiful flower viewing spots in the world. Photo by Dang Van An |
What do you see as Da Lat’s chances for success?
Having overseen dining at prestigious clubs like Soho House and 6 Grosvenor Place, I’ve interacted with royals and billionaires from around the world, experiences that sharpen your sense of what works.
In Da Lat, I see investors with the vision and resources to partner with world-class experts in architecture, wellness, and luxury hospitality. The infrastructure for a premium private club is taking shape.
I truly believe this project will surprise people. The wealthy, whether in Vietnam or abroad, are looking for spaces where they feel unique, where every detail is curated to match their lifestyle and tastes.
What struck you about Vietnamese cuisine?
As someone who lives and breathes food, I always seize the chance to explore local dishes. Before coming here, I already loved pho, bun cha, banh mi, and bun bo Hue, which I’d had in London and New York. But tasting them in Vietnam, where they were born, was an entirely different experience.
The regional diversity of Vietnamese cuisine is absolutely remarkable. It deserves far greater international recognition.
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Morning mist in Da Lat. Photo by Vo Trang |
Michelin has recently awarded stars to nine Vietnamese restaurants and listed hundreds more. What’s your view?
Personally, I’m more drawn to street food and humble, local spots than high-end dining. That said, Michelin’s arrival is a major milestone; it elevates Vietnam’s culinary profile on the global stage.
I do hope the guide continues to celebrate traditional Vietnamese dishes and establishments deeply rooted in local culture, not just French- or Japanese-influenced fine dining.
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A private club is about to launch in Da Lat. Graphic courtesy of Haus Da Lat |
How would you present Da Lat to your international friends?
This trip left me with genuine admiration and excitement. Vietnam is one of the most enchanting countries I’ve visited, and I look forward to returning.
From both a lifestyle and culinary perspective, its appeal goes far beyond the scenery. With its cultural depth and gastronomic richness, Vietnam is perfectly positioned to host elite destinations.
In Da Lat, I believe the vision of a world-class private club, an oasis for extraordinary individuals, is well on its way to becoming reality. Vietnam will soon take its place among the world’s most exclusive luxury destinations. Sooner than many expect.
