Backpackers

We stayed two extra nights because we were having such an incredible time, and my wife keeps trying to plan another trip. Our family of four came for a warm winter week and had a gorgeous experience at Sea Vibe Cat Ba. The location is an easy walk from town but away from the bustle, beside a small lake with a stunning view of the hills behind. A few other homestays are along the quiet road, and our girls quickly made close friends with local children. The staff helped us figure out how to get there from Hanoi even before check-in. They arranged a boat tour of the islands, which was jaw-dropping and a bargain, gave us great tips for town and the island, and rented scooters. They also did two loads of laundry and made lovely breakfasts and dinners. They were relaxed and easy to deal with while we were unsure how long we'd stay or where to go next. They were so lovely that our girls cried while hugging everyone goodbye, and they were kind to the kittens and old dog living on the street.

We couldn't find anywhere to stay on cat ba, so the staff let us and a few others sleep for free in the common area and on the sun loungers. They gave us blankets and pillows to make us comfortable, served us free breakfast in the morning, and helped us get a taxi the next day. We didn't see the rooms, since we just slept in the common area, but the bungalows looked gorgeous and the hostel had a great vibe. The staff were so kind and helped us a lot. Can't recommend the place enough for that.

The garden was lovely, and the Sea Vibe Hostel staff were very friendly. I felt sad seeing the kittens shut overnight in a cage that seemed too small, where they had to sleep in feces, including diarrhea, and urine. I understand not wanting little cats to roam at night and get lost, but a room or a larger cage with a litter box and a place to sleep would be better than metal bars. Fresh water and food would help too. The cats had diarrhea, which I suspect may be because they only get rice. Meat is important for cats' health since they need taurine, or they can get sick. The cats were really sweet, and I believe the hotel/hostel cares about them. I hope they take this as feedback and improve their situation. Breakfast buffet had a good range, including noodles, rice, fruit, vegetables, and eggs. Staff played very loud party music from 9 a.m. and throughout the day, which sometimes bothered me. The hostel is outside the center, but less than a 10-minute bike or motorbike ride away. There's a short forest hike to a lagoon. The pool was empty.

Thank you very much, Mr. Li. The hostel was clean, the bathroom had plenty of space, and the view was incredible. I booked a six-bed room, but because there weren't many people, they put me in an eight-bed room so I could have a better view. The people there are so kind. When I woke up late and missed breakfast, they made another one for me. When I was about to leave, only five minutes away by motorcycle, he offered to take me there for free since it was so close. I really appreciated it. If you go, be kind to these people, they have nothing but kindness.