One Hotel Hanoi: Vietnam's Most Luxurious Escape? (You Won't Believe This!)
Honest Review: One Hotel Hanoi – Is it REALLY Vietnam's Most Luxurious? (You Know I Had to Find Out!)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from a whirlwind stay at One Hotel Hanoi, and let me tell you, the "Most Luxurious Escape" claim? Yeah, I went in skeptical. Very skeptical. I mean, how luxurious can a hotel really be? But hey, for research purposes (and a desperate need for a vacation), I dove in headfirst!
Before we get to the nitty-gritty, let's be REAL for a sec. Traveling is messy. It's wonderful, it's exhausting, and sometimes, it smells vaguely of airport pretzels. So, consider this review less a polished brochure and more a chat with a slightly frazzled, but ultimately thrilled (mostly) traveler.
First Impressions (and the Dreaded Accessibility Check)
Okay, first things first: Accessibility. This is where things get a tiny bit… patchy. The hotel claims to have "Facilities for disabled guests," and sure, there's an elevator. But I didn't see a whole lot of detailed info on accessible rooms or specific features on their site. This needs SERIOUS improvement. If accessibility is a MUST for you, I'd strongly recommend contacting them directly to get the lowdown and make sure it fits your needs. Don't rely on vague promises!
Checking In (and the Glorious Promise of Wi-Fi)
Checking in was relatively smooth, thankfully. Contactless check-in/out is a godsend these days. And THANK GOD, because the promise of Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! AND Internet access – wireless AND Internet access – LAN? (Seriously, who still uses LAN in 2024?! But hey, points for options!) – was everything to me. I'm a digital nomad, so connectivity is basically oxygen. WiFi coverage was generally solid, though I did have a couple of blips in the room, but nothing too traumatic.
The Room: My Sanctuary (Mostly)
Okay, the room. Here’s where the "luxury" started to kick in. I had a non-smoking room (phew!), and it was… ridiculously comfortable. The blackout curtains were a lifesaver after those jet-lagged nights. The extra long bed? Pure bliss. I'm talking seriously, I could practically do cartwheels on that thing! My room also had all the usual suspects: Air conditioning (praise be!), a coffee/tea maker (essential), a mini bar (tempting!), and a safe (crucial). The slippers and bathrobes were a nice touch. The mirror was strategically placed for maximum selfie-taking potential (ahem). I also appreciated the hair dryer and toiletries. Honestly, the daily housekeeping was a luxury I could easily get used to.
The Bathroom: Pure Zen (and a Tiny Squawk)
The private bathroom was a masterpiece. I'm talking separate shower/bathtub (yes, please!), with fresh towels, and more amenities. Plus, the lighting was perfect for… well, whatever you need to do in a bathroom. There was an additional toilet, which is always a plus. It was all supremely civilized. However, I had a small issue with the water pressure on the first day. Fine, it's a minor issue. But for a "luxury" hotel, the water should be flowing like a majestic waterfall.
Eating & Drinking (and the Epic Breakfast)
This is where One Hotel Hanoi really shines. Let's start with the Breakfast [buffet]. Holy moly, people. It was a culinary adventure! We are talking the full gamut! Asian breakfast, Western breakfast, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Salad in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant and Desserts in restaurant are to die for. I'm not even kidding, the croissants were flaky perfection, the pho was ridiculously good, and the fresh fruit was… chef's kiss. Seriously, I'm still dreaming about that breakfast. So much variety! There were also restaurants, a bar, a coffee shop, a poolside bar, and the option of room service [24-hour]. The bottle of water in the room was a thoughtful touch. Sadly, I did not see any Happy Hour. Note to One Hotel: Happy hour is a MUST for luxury!
Things to Do (and the Pool with a View)
The options here are, shall we say, extensive. The swimming pool [outdoor] was gorgeous. The Pool with view makes it even better. I spent a whole afternoon floating there, feeling utterly decadent. The Fitness center and Gym/fitness (did I mention I may have needed to burn off some of that breakfast?) were well-equipped. The Spa was also amazing – I indulged in a massage, which was the best decision I ever made. I definitely want to try the Foot Bath and Sauna next time.
Relaxation, Detox, and Body Bliss:
The Body scrub and Body wrap were both AMAZING. They definitely helped me relax and recharge. I also loved the steam room to help relax. I have to say I wished I tried the Spa/sauna too!
Cleanliness & Safety: Because, You Know, the World
Okay, let's talk about COVID. One Hotel Hanoi clearly takes hygiene seriously. There was Hand sanitizer everywhere. They also offered Professional-grade sanitizing services. I saw a sign about Daily disinfection in common areas and Rooms sanitized between stays. I also noticed Anti-viral cleaning products. I personally appreciated the Individually-wrapped food options. I saw that employees were trained in Staff trained in safety protocol. The Safe dining setup was a plus. There wasn't an option to Room sanitization opt-out available but that's ok. In these messy times, I'm happy with the precautions.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
Here's where One Hotel Hanoi really goes above and beyond. The Concierge was incredibly helpful, the Daily housekeeping was flawless (as mentioned), and the Laundry service was a lifesaver. They also had currency exchange and a Cash withdrawal (handy!). There’s an elevator (again, good for accessibility!), luggage storage, doorman etc. I didn’t use all the options, of course, but it was nice to know they were there. They have a convenience store, which is clutch. Seriously, a gift shop and even a shrink!
For the Kids: Fun for the whole family (or a break from them 😉)
I didn’t have any kids with me, so I can’t give you firsthand experience, but they do offer Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, and Kids facilities, including Kids meal.
The Downside (Because, You Know, Nothing's Perfect)
Okay, here's where I get real. While the hotel is fantastic, it’s not perfect. The accessibility needs serious improvement, as noted. Also, the prices are decidedly luxury. I think it is too expensive but if you have the money it would be worth the price.
The Verdict: Is One Hotel Hanoi Really That Luxurious?
Yes. Mostly.
It’s not flawless (what is?), but One Hotel Hanoi delivers on its promise of luxury. Amazing breakfast, gorgeous pool, comfy rooms, and impeccable service. And if you have the money, and care for a little pampering? Go for it. You deserve it!
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Step Inside THIS Extravagant Art Nouveau Gem in Germany!Alright, buckles those seatbelts, buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into my chaotic, possibly-slightly-delusional, and definitely-opinionated adventure at One Hotel Hanoi. This isn't your perfectly-Photoshopped travel blog, folks. This is the raw, unfiltered truth – with maybe a few embellishments, because, well, it's more fun that way.
Day 1: Arrival and the Great Bun Cha Debacle (and a Side of Existential Dread)
11:00 AM: Landing in Hanoi. Let’s be real, I’m more excited about the post-flight nap than the actual city. The airport is a blur of frantic taxi hagglings and what I think is a customs form (pretty sure I just signed away my firstborn). Thank goodness for pre-booked transport.
12:30 PM: Arrival at One Hotel Hanoi. Okay, first impressions: Damn, it's pretty. And air-conditioned. Bless the air-con. The staff are impossibly polite – could they smell my jetlag? I think I just mumbled something about needing a "comfy chair and a stiff drink" at check-in. Which, honestly, isn’t as bad as the time I… well, let’s save that story for later.
1:00 PM: Room… ahhh, a haven. Actually, it’s a gorgeous haven, all minimalist chic and windows that look out onto… a busy street. Which, you know, adds to the "authenticity." Unpack, collapse into a plush bed, and immediately vow to conquer Hanoi. Starting, of course, with a nap.
3:00 PM: Awakened, refreshed… and RAVENOUS. Bun Cha, I’m coming for you! I venture out, armed with a Google Maps screenshot and a stomach that’s rumbling like a Godzilla in heat.
- The Bun Cha Debacle: This is where things get… messy. After wandering for what felt like an eternity, I stumble upon a tiny, overflowing eatery. Smells like heaven! I point, grunt, and manage to order (or at least think I order) Bun Cha. What arrives? Absolutely NOT what I expected. Turns out, I’d ordered something with a suspiciously pink sauce. I think I might have been tricked by a very cute-looking Vietnamese child pointing at a random dish. Never trust a cute face! Panic sets in. I try to eat it. I fail. I pay, looking like a complete idiot, and retreat, defeated. My stomach grumbles. The bun cha dream is shattered.
- Quirky Observation: The scooters here! They’re like a swarm of angry bees buzzing through the city. Seriously, I think they have some sort of secret hive mind collective.
5:00 PM: The existential dread sets in (probably a delayed reaction to the pink sauce incident). I decide to find a quiet place and eat something bland. I’m at a tiny cafe that serves Banh Mi (bread) and coffee (strong coffee). It's all a big life lesson about resilience, right?
6:30 PM: Walked along the Hoan Kiem Lake, it's all serene and gorgeous. I see the Turtle Tower, which is so pretty, and the crowd is just… there. I’m slightly touched that others seem to have better ideas about what to do!
7:30 PM: Dinner! I find a restaurant with actual English menus and I think. I'm cautiously optimistic. I’m starving. I want something safe, like fried rice.
9:00 PM: Back at the hotel. I’m tired. Jetlag is biting hard. Time to plot my revenge on Bun Cha, and sleep.
Day 2: Culture, Cooking, and Catastrophe (of the delicious kind)
8:00 AM: Waking up, feeling slightly less like a zombie. Delicious breakfast at the hotel. I’m starting to think the air-con is my best friend.
9:00 AM: The Temple of Literature. Wow. Just… wow. I wander around, marveling at the ancient architecture, the serene courtyards, and the sheer history of the place. I almost bumped into a giant stone frog (totally my fault, I was staring at a particularly ornate roof tile). The quiet is almost a shock after the chaotic streets. A nice shock, though.
10:30 AM: Cooking Class! Finally, a chance to redeem myself from yesterday’s culinary fail. This is supposed to be a fun, hands-on experience, and I’m actually excited.
- The Cooking Class Catastrophe (the good kind): This was amazing! I learned how to make fresh spring rolls! I made a mess, I dropped some pho ingredients, and I burned a little bit of rice paper. But the instructor, a tiny woman with a huge smile, was incredibly patient. And the food? Delicious! Finally, vindication for my taste buds! Turns out, Vietnamese food is as amazing as everyone says. I happily eat the entire meal: I'm absolutely stuffed.
- Emotional Reaction: I’m genuinely thrilled. I may even have a new hobby.
2:00 PM: Afternoon. I'm going to try to find a cafe and write out some postcards to my beloved ones. Maybe I'll try my luck at a massage.
4:00 PM: Massage! Oh, sweet, blissful relief. I felt knots the size of golf balls. The masseuse, a tiny wizard with magical hands, kneaded them away. I almost fell asleep and forgot what's going on!
6:00 PM: Stroll through Hanoi Old Quarter. Just… prepare yourself. It’s a sensory overload in the best way possible: the sights, the smells, the sounds of vendors hawking their wares. I try to get lost in the maze of streets. My direction sense still poor.
7:30 PM: Dinner… I stumble across a tiny, plastic-chair-filled restaurant and devour a bowl of Pho. Again, I accidentally ordered a dish with what looked like a very interesting jelly. I’m starting to realize you win some, you lose some. Learn from your mistake.
9:00 PM: Back at the hotel, planning how to avoid pink sauce for the rest of the trip and also dreaming about the massage!
Day 3: Halong Bay (Boat, Views, and a Slightly Seasick Me)
6:00 AM: Early wake-up! Because Halong Bay. I'm still not 100% sure I booked the right tour. I am starting to think this early start means I'm not a morning person.
7:00 AM: Picked up to go to the Bay. The bus ride is… interesting. I try to sleep.
11:00 AM: Arrive at Halong Bay. Wow. Absolutely stunning. The emerald waters, the limestone karsts… it's truly breathtaking. I hop on a boat, feeling a mix of awe and… mild seasickness. I might be a land person.
1:00 PM: Lunch on the boat. The food is surprisingly good, and my seasickness isn't too bad. The views are incredible! I take a TON of pictures.
3:00 PM: Kayaking through the caves. It's fun, a little bit of exercise. The water is clear and the caves are beautiful.
4:00 PM: Sunbathing. The whole experience feels like a dream. The water is warm and the sky is blue. I spend some time lounging on the sundeck.
5:00 PM: Boat ride back to the Harbor. I’m happily exhausted.
9:00 PM: Back at the hotel. I had a fantastic day. I’m happy. Time to sleep.
Day 4: Departure (and a Last-Minute Banh Mi Blitz)
8:00 AM: Final breakfast at the hotel. Sigh. It’s time to say goodbye. I will miss the air conditioning more than I care to admit.
8:30 AM: I’m determined to go for a final Banh Mi – a good Banh Mi. I'm gonna find one. I am in charge of this. I will not fail this time.
9:30 AM: Success! I find a tiny stall with a long queue. I order the works. It’s perfection. I almost weep with joy.
10:30 AM: Pack up. One last look at the room. I'm gonna miss it.
11:00 AM: Check out. I leave a tip for the incredibly helpful staff. I actually feel a little sad to leave!
1 PM: Airport. Goodbye, Hanoi. You were chaotic, delicious, beautiful, and occasionally slightly terrifying. I'd come back. I'd also learn to navigate with more directions. But mostly, I'd come back for the food!
1:30 PM: Flight.
Final Thoughts:
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Is One Hotel Hanoi REALLY as luxurious as they say?
Okay, picture this: you walk in, and BAM! Chandeliers that could probably fund a small village. Marble floors so shiny you could see your bewildered face. And then… *the smell*. A ridiculously expensive, subtly floral perfume that hits you like a luxury brick. So, yes, the luxury factor? Check.
But… and there's always a but, isn't there? My first room had a teeny, tiny, almost insulting "balcony." We're talking, like, enough space to stand and contemplate your existential dread in the face of such opulence. I was expecting a sprawling terrace to sip champagne and judge the commoners below! (Just kidding… mostly.)
Oh and the pillow menu? It’s a *thing*. I spent a solid ten minutes trying to pick between the goose down and the… I don't even remember what the other options were because Goose Down won. It was fantastic though, honestly.
Overall? Yes, it's luxurious. Ridiculously so. Be prepared to feel slightly underdressed even in your fanciest clothes. And maybe invest in some new socks. Mine were looking a little… worn.
What's the deal with the service? Is it overly-attentive or…?
Okay, let's be real. The service at One Hotel is almost… *too* attentive. I swear, I took a step towards the pool, and *poof!* a waiter materialized with a chilled towel and a cocktail, before I even knew I was thirsty. It's like they have hotel-vision, constantly scanning for a guest's unspoken needs.
There was that one time I accidentally spilled a smoothie on my pristine white shirt. Disaster. But before I could even panic, a gentleman in a perfectly pressed suit appeared, whisked away my shirt, and brought it back, spotless, within minutes. Magic, I tell you! (Side note: I still feel guilty about that smoothie. Sorry, guy!)
The staff are phenomenal, but sometimes, you just want to be left alone! Give the waiter a break to get his breath. It's almost overwhelming at first. I needed to adjust to the constant pampering. And remember, a little friendly politeness goes a long way in return, it will pay off!
Tell me about the food! Is the dining as good as the hype?
Alright, deep breath. The food. Oh, the food. Honestly? It's mostly as incredible as everyone says. But, here's where my messy, human, slightly-hangry self comes in.
The breakfast buffet? Forget about it. Prepare to spend at least an hour just *browsing*. There's everything. EVERYTHING. Miniature pastries, exotic fruits you've never heard of, made-to-order omelets, every kind of coffee imaginable. I started with good intentions – "I'll just have a light salad, some fruit..." And then the croissants happened. And the pain au chocolat. And suddenly, I was fighting for space at the juice bar because I needed ALL the smoothies. It's a gluttonous paradise, in the best way possible.
Dinner at the main restaurant? Exquisite. The presentation is art! But, here's a confession: one night, I was SO overwhelmed with choices, I just ordered a burger. A *fancy* burger, mind you, with truffle aioli and hand-cut fries, but still. Sometimes, you need simplicity. Even at a place like One Hotel. It was a delicious burger, though. No regrets.
So, yes, the food is amazing. Possibly even life-changing. Just pace yourself. And maybe skip the burger… unless you *really* want it. No judgement!
Is the Spa worth it? I'm on the fence...
Ugh, the spa. Okay, here's where I fully embrace my inner drama queen. Yes, the spa is worth it. I mean, it's like walking into a cloud of essential oils and serenity, with the most amazing massage ever. So, yes, absolutely worth it.
I'm not a spa person, generally. I tend to fidget, I'm awkward when someone is rubbing oil on me, and I always feel like I can do more productive things, even when relaxing, but the spa at One Hotel? It was… different. My therapist had magical hands. I swear, every knot, every tension I didn’t even *realize* I had, vanished. *Poof*. Gone!
The space itself is stunning, it's like you're entering a different world of peace and quiet. So, yes, it's expensive, but honestly? It was worth every single penny. Just do it. Treat yourself. You deserve it. You might even sleep for 12 hours afterward, like I did. It's that good.
What are some of the quirky experiences you can get there?
Quirky? Oh, One Hotel Hanoi is FULL of quirky. Here's a few things to keep your eyes open for:
- The "Secret Garden" Breakfast: Turns out, One Hotel has a secret rooftop garden where you can arrange a private breakfast. Think fresh everything with views of the city. (It also attracts a lot of Instagrammers, FYI.)
- Personalized Art Tour: They arranged a private art tour from a local museum. They handpicked the person who would have loved to explain the art, the history, while we were there and it was so niche and so detailed.
- The "Do Not Disturb" Button: Because being bothered is a chore, the rooms have a super clear "Do Not Disturb" button that lights up the outside. So, if you’re feeling antisocial, you can barricade yourself in your room without any guilt.
- The Room Service Menu: Forget your typical menu. This one includes everything from the aforementioned burger to a whole roast duck. Midnight cravings are fully catered for.
- That Random Statue of a Dragon: No, really. There's a statue of a dragon in the lobby. No explanation. It’s just… there. (I kinda loved it.)
It's the little details that make it special. It’s the kind of hotel where you stumble upon something new and exciting every day. Embrace the quirky!
Is there anything *bad* about One Hotel Hanoi? Seriously, what's the catch?
Okay, disclaimer: I’m being brutally honest here. There are a few things. But, let's be real, it will be hard to find. Honestly, if you are looking for a fault finder, there will be some:
- The Price: Let's not kid ourselves. It's expensive. Really, really expensive. You'll need to win the lottery or sell aUnique Hotel Finds