Ninh Binh Panorama Homestay

We ate here three times out of four because the food was the best we found nearby. The host welcomed us with tea and a map showing the main sights, and was super nice. The bungalows were spotless and had all the amenities, even an electric blanket for cold days. It’s a beautiful spot among rice fields, and renting bikes made it easy to get to the boat rides and temples. I’ll definitely come back.

The setting is so quiet, with lotus fields, mountain scenery, and incredible views, yet it’s centrally placed enough that renting a moto is easy. There’s a beautiful pool too. The family were wonderfully hospitable and all the food was delicious. I hope I get to return soon.

I stayed longer than planned because Panorama Homestay was so peaceful and away from the busy town. From my bamboo hut I could see cows, egrets, and farmers in the rice fields, with karsts sitting in the autumn fog. The heated bed was the best part, a welcome bit of comfort on chilly nights. I’ll definitely be back.

We spent one night in a room and another in a bungalow. The room was decent, with a shared bathroom, and there are hammocks outside for stargazing. The bungalow costs extra, but it’s worth it: well built, and you can make the terrace private to relax without other people looking over. After our boat trip at the Van Long nature reserve, heavy rain sent us back early, so we enjoyed Ninh Binh’s beauty from the shelter of that terrace instead. The two sisters who run the homestay left the city for this peaceful haven. Their restaurant is in the main building, and the sisters and one husband cook delicious meals. I recommend the coconut chicken and tamarind beef. There are only a few bungalows and two rooms, so it stays quiet, and free WIFI is available. Arriving at sunset, with the view glowing gold, made the bumpy trip feel worth it. We rented a motorbike, but the final stretch is a small rocky road built to reach the homestay. If you’re not comfortable riding, the hosts can pick you up.