Halise Home & Retreat Ninh Binh

The setting feels remote and peaceful, though you’re close to several attractions on foot or by bike. They offer free bikes, and the front desk helped me plan my stay when I texted for advice. The place is kept to a high standard, and it’s probably one of the best hostel stays I’ve had. The value is absolutely worth it. I stayed in the mixed dorm with eight beds. Late January was quiet, and I had the room to myself on two of my three nights. That peace was just what I wanted. The facilities and bathroom were clean and tidy, with plenty of clean towels. There were disposable toothbrushes, combs, and shaving kits, plus flip-flops by the entrance for wearing inside the dorm. The staff made me feel looked after from the moment I arrived until I left. They’re all so kind and go out of their way to make your stay comfortable. Room service is available by text, whether you need ice or water, for example, and they even bring your laundry to and from your room. Katherine and Ana deserve a special mention. They checked on me and were always ready to help. Ana also lent me a jacket for a few days when mine was in the wash and late January felt a little chilly. You can order restaurant food to your room, too. I enjoyed it. It costs a bit more than food at other places in Vietnam, but the quality and flavor were very good, and the serene, beautiful view while eating made it worth it. The breakfast buffet was phenomenal, with Western and vietnamese options, a pho station where they make your bowl, and a scrambled egg station where they cook it how you like. There was fruit, yogurt, and fresh passion fruit juice on tap that was bangin. I was really impressed with the selection.

The room soundproofing is poor, so you can hear people in other rooms clearly. Still, it’s quiet enough for a family holiday, and the setting is peaceful and romantic, with lots of plants and a lake nearby. It’s close to Hang Mua Cave, mountains, and rice fields. I’d highly recommend staying here.

The breakfast was fab, especially the omelette and egg station, and I loved having a midday checkout. Katherine at the front desk welcomed us and was wonderful and super helpful. Our rooms felt lovely and luxurious, and the location tucked between the mountains was out of this world. We loved our stay at Hali Home!

It feels tucked away and private, yet the accommodation is still close to all the tourist spots. We could use the free bikes to explore the area. The ladies at reception were kind and very helpful, and Katherine was especially welcoming and friendly. I loved waking up to the peaceful view over the lake and river. Thanks for having us.