Situated on a hillside overlooking Xuan Huong Lake, this extraordinary property features a mere 19 rooms and suites and has an almost B&B ambiance or the feel of a plush Mediterranean villa. Though not as luxurious and country-clubish as the Dalat Palace, the Empress is not as pretentious either.

The Empress' cozy, bistro-like restaurant adjoins the tastefully appointed, chalet-type lobby, where both superlative Western and Asian cuisines are offered. Dining is also offered in the garden courtyard overlooking the lake. On the terrace below is a large outdoor cafe/bar, perfect for a pre-dinner cocktail or nightcap. The service here is extraordinarily friendly and efficient, even family-like.

The suites and rooms surround a cozy courtyard. Most overlook the lake. The suites are particularly impressive, with a sunken bath and jacuzzi beneath a high, sky-lit ceiling. Marble floors, antique phones, gorgeous rattan furnishings and a 36-inch screen television fill out this amenity-packed option.

The deluxe rooms offer only slightly less - you don't get a jacuzzi, and the TV is smaller - but are spacious and airy, with a generous number of windows hinged to polished, hardwood shutters. Though the superior rooms are bit more scaled-down, both in size and character, the price is a bargain.

The location of this hotel on Xuan Huong Lake might actually make it a better hotel than the more famous Sofitel Dalat Palace Hotel. The hotel staff is very friendly and room is adequate. The view over the lake is wonderful and it is a very short walk to restaurants, cafes, and the incredible Dalat Market. The restaurant is very elegant looking and again has a nice view over the area.