Hanoi Capital Premium Hotel

Thuy made getting around so easy. She helped arrange buses, our transfer to Sapa, and the airport, so the trip felt worry-free. The room was clean, breakfast and service were great, and it was easy to walk around from this location. We felt at home here and are sure we'll come back. I'd recommend it to friends.

The location is excellent, just steps from St. Joseph's Cathedral and a short walk to Hoan Kiem lake. The staff were okay, and at least admitted they had put us in a downgraded room. They offered about 25% off our two-night stay, which we accepted because it was 10pm and we didn't want to haul our luggage around looking for another hotel. Still, it was frustrating and gave us a terrible first impression of Vietnam. We booked a deluxe family suite with an outdoor view. Instead, after arriving, the receptionist walked us to another Hanoi capital hotel about 10 meters away. We were fine with that as long as the room matched our booking, but it was a twin-bed suite facing a backstreet. After a quick look around, I called the receptionist, who said our booked room was unavailable and offered the discount. The room was filthy. There was a shoe print on the sheet, the damp linen was torn like a fish net, and dust was everywhere. The toilet sat on a brick base and was so high that at 1.75m I couldn't put my feet properly on the floor. The shower door swung inward, but pulling it outward made it slam into the vanity. It felt fragile, and I worried it would break. The room photos on the booking page are misleading, and I don't understand the 8.9 cleanliness score. Hygiene matters most to me when I travel, and Hanoi capital premium hotel was the worst. After leaving Vietnam, I tried to review the hotel on Agoda and found my booking had been cancelled. I think that's why they waited to charge us until arrival. They may have expected a bad review and cancelled the booking, which really angered me. Google Maps is where I'm fighting back.

The staff were especially welcoming, and Thug gave us plenty of useful travel tips. The hotel is clean and tidy, with a warm, cozy feel. Its spot near the cathedral, lake, and old town made it easy to get around and find places to eat.

There's plenty of good food within walking distance, and a great hidden bar just across the street. The hotel is a stone's throw from the famous old chapel in the old quarters. Rooms were neat and clean, and the front desk staff were friendly and full of helpful information. Ask Ellie to make you a nice salt coffee, too!