Eldora Hotel

We spent five nights at the Eldora midway through a 12-week tour of Southeast Asia. Reception welcomed us warmly, gave us two room cards, and showed us how everything worked. They warned us the hot water could run very hot, and they were right at any time of day or night. Our room was beautifully furnished, with large twin beds, comfortable pillows, a table and two chairs, a well-stocked minibar, plenty of storage, and complimentary water replenished daily. There was also a large safe, useful for my MacBook and camera. The bathroom had a walk-in shower and a roll-top bath, perfect for a soak after walking around the city. We’d planned dinners elsewhere, so only ate breakfast at the restaurant. The staff were attentive and friendly, and there was plenty of food with a good range for different dietary needs. Omelettes were made fresh, the Danish pastries were delicious, and the coffee was strong and hot. One rainy evening, reception lent us an umbrella. They also arranged an English-speaking driver and car for a day visiting three of the Emperor’s Tombs. Even with entrance fees and a tip, it cost much less than a group tour booked locally or online. We could explore the tombs, which include much more than a single building, at our own pace and enjoy the surroundings. Reception said our driver Nin had limited English, which we were fine with, but he actually spoke very well. He told us about the sites, the countryside along the way, his family, and Vietnamese life, including how Covid affected tourism. Thanks to everyone who made the stay so enjoyable and memorable. Sorry I didn’t get individual names to mention, but you all did a fantastic job.

Our room had no view, just a wall about five feet away, though the bed was firm and comfortable, just how we like it. We were with a Gate 1 tour group, so the trip price included the hotel and breakfast and I can’t comment on their costs. The hotel is central, within walking distance of lots of shops and restaurants. We also took a day trip to palaces, mausoleums, and several other places. The bathroom was the largest we’ve had on this trip. The shower and toilet shared one partition without a curtain or divider, so afterward you have to mop up water from the floor with a towel. Our guide warned us the hot water was very hot and the shower and bath floor got slippery when wet, and pointed out shower mats and rubber slippers. He didn’t mention that you could burn yourself on the hot water pipe if you accidentally touch it while turning the handle. Not sure why it was designed like that. The buffet offered a wide selection, but most of it wasn’t to our taste, unlike at previous hotels. The food we did try wasn’t hot, such as the pancakes and waffles, or cold, like the cut fruit, juice, and cereal milk. There were only two juice choices, with ice available to add to a glass. A heat lamp was there for some dishes but wasn’t switched on. Front desk and restaurant service was good, and that was all we needed.

My travel agent picked this hotel, and I was pleasantly surprised by how grand and luxurious it felt. The staff were still friendly, and the location was good. We enjoyed the pool, buffet breakfast, and restaurant dinner.

Check-in went smoothly and the staff were nice. The breakfast buffet was plentiful, too. The room layout was strange, with no doors and a huge glass window between the bedroom and bathtub. The gym felt like an afterthought, stuck in a side room with little equipment and a big pillar in the middle.