Ben Thanh Dorm Homestay Central Saigon - Hostel

It’s dirt cheap and in the best possible location. I spent two nights there and met some nice people. There always seemed to be someone on the balcony to chat with. The showers and toilets were okay, though nothing special, which is about what you’d expect at this price. I didn’t see bedbugs, but people there said there were some, so wash your clothes after staying, just in case. Also, don’t leave your things unattended, since basically anyone can get into the hostel at any time. I was there during the national holiday and enjoyed walking around the center, with the option to pop back and rest just a five-minute walk away. All in all, I had a great experience.

The dorm was cramped, with so little room to move that it felt claustrophobic. There was just one bathroom attached to the toilet for all those travelers, so queues and unsanitary conditions were an issue. Cleanliness was poor too, with even basic hygiene standards not being met. I struggled to sleep on the hard, convex mattresses, which offered almost no support. Getting in was a hassle as well: the entrance is through a narrow, small tunnel partly blocked by parked motorcycles. For the lower price, it might suit budget travelers willing to give up comfort and cleanliness. Anyone looking for a pleasant, hygienic stay should look elsewhere.

The owner was nice and the location was good, but I found bedbugs. Even after I moved to another hostel weeks later, there were still some on my clothes and bag. I’d suggest another hostel at the same price with a better bed and shower room.

Really, really dirty and disgusting. The smell in the room was awful. I had to wash all my clothes after spending just a few hours there, and checked out at 4 a.m. because I couldn’t stay in that room any longer.