Nature Hotel

The reception team made a great impression, always professional, warm, and ready to help. The whole stay felt thoughtfully arranged, and I left feeling it had gone beyond what I expected. Nature Hanoi Hotel has a lovely atmosphere, and I’d happily recommend it.

There’s a bank right beside the hotel, which is handy, though its exchange rate for Singapore dollars was extremely poor when I checked. Other nearby banks seemed unfamiliar with foreign currency and would only handle US dollars, euros, or Australian dollars. If you’re coming from Canada or elsewhere in Asia, you may need to travel about 20 minutes to Dong Dao and ask specifically for the foreign-currency counter and an experienced staff member. Otherwise, you could end up with a trainee who turns away your notes because she can’t make a decision. The breakfast is a real highlight: lots of Vietnamese food, eggs, bacon, croissants, fresh fruit, and juices. But later the breakfast room is for staff meals and rest only, with no food or drinks for guests. There’s a terrace looking over the Red River, but nowhere to sit there, and no room has a balcony. After a day or two, having to leave your room every time you want coffee or a cigarette gets old. This is basically a large B&B, and there isn’t a comfortable spot in the hotel to unwind with either. Rooms and bathrooms are spacious and modern. My sixth-floor room smelled fresh, although some other floors had a damp, wet-carpet smell. Some rooms have windows, but they don’t open. That didn’t bother me much, given Hanoi’s commonly poor air quality. The AC is strong. The staff are friendly, but asking for more than a 10-15 minute extension is awkward. They say yes, but their eyes say no. Be aware that laundry comes back in clear bags, folded inside out, including underwear, so it’s visible. The hairdryer is left plugged in beside the bathroom sink, so take extra care if you have children. They advertise tours, but there isn’t really access to them. It may work for locals who know where to find a cafe, for a quick work trip, or for families with teens who can keep an eye on their own kids. I wouldn’t choose it for a solo traveler or someone visiting Vietnam to relax. There are safer, more comfortable options nearby for solo travelers or groups of women at the same or a lower price.

The receptionists were warm and professional, and the hotel had a peaceful feel. There are lots of amenities nearby, and it’s within reasonable reach of the city center and Hanoi attractions.

It’s a clean hotel with good staff and a decent breakfast. Just keep in mind it’s a long way from the Old Quarter.