Hanoi Old Quarter Homestay

The rate went up by 60% just half an hour after I received the booking confirmation. I cancelled, of course. This was a waste of time and felt like a scam. I wouldn't recommend it.

We had dinner with the other guests one evening, and it was really nice. Breakfast was good too, with several kinds of Pho as well as Western choices like eggs and butter. The staff were friendly and helped us arrange taxis, pick restaurants, and get local tips. We stayed in three different rooms over several nights while exploring North Vietnam, and each one was clean and comfortable. The homestay is well placed for getting around on foot. We also enjoyed the 3D/2N Bai Tu Long Bay trip with Swan cruises, though we wondered if booking directly with an agency in Hanoi might have cost less. Some people on our tour seemed to have paid quite a bit less than we did. We really enjoyed our stay and recommend it.

The room was roomy and clean, with a comfortable bed, working AC and hot water, a desk, and a bathroom with a separate shower. There wasn't much natural light, but the quiet made that trade-off feel fair. The homestay sits down an alley, away from the noise and bustle, while still making a handy base for exploring the Old Quarter. Luan was a gracious host and made us feel at home. We joined him and his staff for a home-cooked dinner on our first night, which was a great experience, and breakfast was good, with both typical and Vietnamese options. There was also a jug of drinking water available. They lock the gate at midnight. If you're back later, there's a doorbell and a number to call. We stayed out later than planned on our second night, and it took a while for the attendant to wake up. We felt bad about disturbing him, but didn't have another way in. We really enjoyed our first two nights here and would recommend it as a comfortable, convenient place to stay.

I'm unhappy with how this was handled. Three hours before check-in, they cancelled our booking because of “electrical issues” and offered us no solution. If guests are charged when they cancel, why isn't the hotel charged for cancelling on us?