Phong Lan Hotel

The owner’s response to my lost laundry was to ask where I was headed, then tell me to “Buy some new clothing in Hanoi then.” He said some of my clothes had been mixed up with another guest’s, who had already checked out. The missing name brand items were easily worth over $100 USD, and he offered no apology or compensation, not even a waived laundry fee, breakfast, cheap tourist shirts, or a complimentary night. My room also wasn’t cleaned at all during my 4 night stay. The staff’s English wasn’t very good, even though most customers were foreigners. The value, view, and location were good, but the rest was a letdown.

The rooms are roomy and clean, with terraces looking out toward the bay. The view is especially lovely from an upper floor. Phong Lan Hotel is easy to find on Cat Ba island’s main street, just 50m from the ferry port, and within walking distance of the attractions. One thing missing, though: there are no blanket sheets.

There was a disgusting smell around the restaurant and outside too, like dead fish or something. The Banh Mi on the menu sounded good, but they couldn’t make a decent one with just egg. It was terrible. I haven’t written a review in a long time, but I won’t eat here again.

The chicken was basically overcooked bones and skin, and the “fresh” spring rolls were fried. The mixed fruit shake turned out to be plain mango juice. This was the worst meal I had in Vietnam.