Hanoi Hotels

In Hue we had stayed in the Binh Minh Hotel (12 D Nguyen Tri Phuong) which was an excellent choice with a selection of rooms from $15 to $30. All were clean, breakfast was included there was a free, fast internet connection and the staff were very friendly. We were, therefore, happy to take the receptionist's recommendation on Hanoi hotels before we flew there.

On arrival there was a luxury car waiting for us courtesy of the Prince Hotel (51 Pho Luong Ngoc Quyen). It was free provided we stayed for three nights otherwise they'd charge $10 (it's a 35km journey!). The Prince Hotel is in the heart of the old city with plenty alternatives. We found the staff disinterested as they preferred to play games on the internet rather than deal with guests. We had a room at the front which was noisy until midnight, it wasn't paticularly clean and the electric point to the boiler located in the shower was positively dangerous. The following morning we moved on to the Sunshine Hotel (see below).

It seems that once a hotel makes it into the Lonely Planet guidebook it's a license to raise their prices. In general there are plenty other cheaper options around with staff who are much more welcoming. If you arrive at a reasonable just have a stroll around and see what you come across. Here are a few recommendations. Suggested prices may prove inaccurate as there are sporadic offers depending on vacancies.

Budget Hotels

Viet Anh Hotel (11 Pho Ma May)
Web: www.vietanhhotel.com
Excellent facilities in this relatively new establishment with nice, clean rooms, satellite TV, high speed internet and great breakfasts. Very friendly and helpful staff. Check out the rave reviews on their website. (average $20 a night)

Thuy Lam Hotel (17 Hang Ga)

If you're seriously on a budget this place comes well recommended by numerous backpackers. It has clean rooms, is located right in the old quarter and serves up a fine noodle soup for breakfast. (average $10 a night)

Tin Tin Hotel (14 Hang Non)

This is a gem of a budget option in the Hoan Kiem district within easy reach of all the main central attractions. It lies on a street that is set just a little from the hectic streets of the Old Quarter which provides a welcome escape. Large clean rooms and bathrooms. The family owners will make you most welcome and really go out of their way to make you feel at home. (average $10 a night)

Mid-Range Hotels

Sunshine Hotel (42 Ma May)

We stayed here in the old quarter and were very comfortable in our large, clean room with air-conditioning, satellite TV and fridge. Hotel looked after our stuff whilst we went to Halong Bay and had our room waiting for us when we returned. (average $30 a night)

Win Hotel (34 Hang Hanh)

Well run establishment with very friendly, English speaking owners. Comfortable rooms, good breakfast and fine location in the heart of the old city. Staff can sort out anything for you!(average $30 a night)

Classic Street Hotel (41 Pho Hang Be)

Ideal location in the old quarter giving easy access to all the restaurants and sights of this central district. Rooms are functional and spotless, great breakfast and satellite TV in rooms. (average $30 a night)

De Syloia Hotel (17A Tran Hung Dao)

Highly recommended boutique hotel with large, clean rooms and plenty little touches to make you feel most welcome such a fresh fruit each day and daily papers. Good restaurant and close proximity to other fine eateries. A short distance from the old quarter so a little more peaceful.(average $70 a night)

Deluxe/Luxury Hotels

Sofitel Metropole Hanoi (15 Ngo Quyen)

This stylish hotel is a grand option with beautiful furnishings throughout and a very attentive and friendly staff. Its restaurants are first class so need to go hunting for meals in the evening. Great location and nice swimming pool. (average $200 a night)

Hilton Hanoi Opera (1 Le Thanh Tong)

Lying across the road from the Metropole this lacks the charm of its neighbour but is still a first class establishment favoured by business clients. Beautifully designed like the city's Opera House over which it offers stunning views. (average $200 a night)

Sheraton Hanoi Hotel (11 Xuan Dieu Road)

This is a good choice if you're looking for a quiet life and want to be away from the madness of the old quarter. Located in the Tay Ho District the hotel is a few minutes from the centre by taxi, it is a high quality establishment offering everything you'd expect from a Sheraton. (average $150 a night)

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