Hanoi's Hidden Gem: Luxury at Blue Hanoi Inn (Spa & Hotel)
Hanoi's Hidden Gem: Blue Hanoi Inn – A Review That's Actually Honest (and a Little Bit Messy)
Okay, folks, buckle up! I've just returned from a whirlwind trip to Hanoi, and I'm here to spill the tea (or, you know, the ca phe sua da – the delicious Vietnamese iced coffee) on the Blue Hanoi Inn (Spa & Hotel). This isn't your cookie-cutter, PR-spun review. This is the real deal. Expect rambles, occasional tangents, and a healthy dose of opinion. Let’s dive in!
Accessibility – The Real Test:
First things first: Accessibility. Okay, this is where things get slightly complicated. They claim to have facilities for disabled guests, but the devil's in the details. While there's an elevator (thank goodness!), I didn't have a chance to specifically test the wheelchair accessibility of the rooms or other spaces. I do remember the lobby being relatively flat, but honestly, my focus was on… well, you’ll see. I suggest calling ahead for a truly thorough assessment if accessibility is top of your list.
Staying Safe: A Very Necessary Focus
Let's just address the elephant in the room: COVID-19. Given the times, safety is HUGE. The Blue Hanoi Inn takes it seriously. I saw hand sanitizer stations everywhere! Seriously, like, every corner. They're serious about daily disinfection in common areas and, crucially, seem to have staff trained in safety protocols. Plus, you can opt-out of room sanitization. The whole place felt…clean. Not sterile-hospital-clean, but reassuringly safe. Good job on the Anti-viral cleaning products too! Room sanitization opt-out available, That's a plus for the more sensitive among us. Safe dining setup and Sanitized kitchen and tableware items were a big thumbs up.
Food, Glorious Food! (And the Occasional Regret)
Alright, the food. This is where my inner foodie REALLY got excited.
- Breakfast: The Asian breakfast was a glorious smorgasbord of pho, spring rolls, and other deliciousness. I'm all in on Western breakfast too! Plus Breakfast [buffet]. There’s also Breakfast in room, if you're feeling lazy, and I'm here for it.
- Restaurants and Lounges: The restaurants offer both Asian cuisine and International cuisine. The Coffee shop was a lifesaver. The Poolside bar looked tempting, though I was too busy… well, you'll see. And, hey, a little Happy hour never hurt anyone. My one regret? Not trying more from the vegetarian restaurant. I'm not vegetarian but maybe I was feeling too much of that meat.
- Specific Shout-Out: The A la carte in restaurant was phenomenal! My advice? Order everything. Okay, maybe not everything, but definitely try the pho. It was so good that I almost forgot I was in a hotel. Almost.
- Room Service: And because I am a vacationing legend, the Room service [24-hour] was my best friend. The Bottle of water was a lifesaver
The Relaxation Station: Where I May Have Lost Track of Time…
Okay, this is where the Blue Hanoi Inn really shines. Prepare for a gushing moment.
- Spa Heaven: The spa is… incredible. Forget everything – and I mean everything – you think you know about spas. I indulged in a Body scrub and Body wrap, and I emerged a completely different person. Seriously, I think I shed a decade. The Massage was divine. The therapist worked out knots I didn't even know I had. Seriously, it was so relaxing I almost fell asleep.
- Pool with a View: And the Pool with view is breathtaking! It's an Swimming pool that makes you want to jump right in. I had a blast, and I would book again for just the view!
- Sauna, steamroom, and fitness center: While I did hit the Gym/fitness center once (out of a sense of obligation), I was much more interested in the Sauna and Steamroom. The Foot bath was a lovely little treat.
Rooms: Cozy Comfort, with a Few Quirks.
My room was a Non-smoking haven (thank goodness!), and it's hard to complain about Air conditioning. It was also equipped with a desk, Mini bar, Slippers, bathrobes and the Free bottled water. The Bed was extra long, which was great for me! Now, The Blackout curtains helped me survive the sleep deprivation from my excursions.
The Annoying, But Still Important, Stuff…
- Internet: Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! That's a HUGE win. I survived.
- Services: 24-hour front desk is a lifesaver. Laundry service came in handy.
- Getting Around: They offer Airport transfer, which is crucial after a long flight. Taxi service is readily available. Plus, the Car park [free of charge] is a bonus.
Things to Do (Beyond Spa-ing):
Hanoi has SO much to offer! Exploring the Old Quarter is a must, and the Blue Hanoi Inn makes it a breeze. The concierge was helpful with arranging tours and providing recommendations. Other options are provided like Family/child friendly places and Meeting/banquet facilities, or Gift/souvenir shop.
Final Verdict: A Hidden Gem Indeed!
The Blue Hanoi Inn is a fantastic hotel! It's not perfect, but its quirks and charm make it a worthwhile stay. The spa experience alone is worth the price of admission. The service is excellent, the food is delicious, and the location is ideal for exploring Hanoi.
My Advice? Book it. Now. Because I'm definitely going back, and I don't want my spot to be taken!
Here's Your Can't-Resist Offer for the Blue Hanoi Inn!
Escape to Hanoi's Hidden Gem: Luxury Awaits!
Tired of the same old routine? Craving some serious pampering? Then pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable experience at the Blue Hanoi Inn (Spa & Hotel)!
Here's what you'll get:
- Unwind in Spa Paradise: Indulge in luxurious treatments, from rejuvenating body scrubs to blissful massages, at our world-class spa. Rejuvenate, Relax, Repeat.
- Wake Up to Culinary Delights: Savor a delicious Asian breakfast, or a Western experience. Enjoy a memorable dining experience!
- Unbeatable Comfort: Stay connected with Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Relax in the comfortable room with a luxurious bed.
- Stay Safe and Worry-Free: Feel secure with our enhanced safety measures, including stringent sanitization protocols and trained staff.
- Prime Location: Explore Hanoi's vibrant culture and historical landmarks. Visit the nearby attractions for all your vacation needs.
Book Now and Get:
- A special welcome gift! (We’re not spilling the beans, but trust us, it's good.)
- Discounted rates on spa treatments.
- Complimentary airport transfer so you can start your vacation in style.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience true luxury in the heart of Hanoi.
Click here to book your escape! [Insert Booking Link Here – Remember to make this live!]
P.S. Because I forgot to mention, the Check-in/out [express] service was a breeze. Another plus. And the couple's room setup looked very romantic… just saying. And the Smoking area was very discrete.
Escape to Paradise: Little Muine Cottages Await in Phan Thiet, Vietnam!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your perfectly curated travel blog. This is me, just back from Hanoi, and still kinda smelling vaguely of pho and street food fumes. And the Blue Hanoi Inn? Well, let's just say we had a relationship. A complicated, slightly sweaty, and ultimately, pretty damn good one.
Day 1: Arrival – Jet Lag, Jaw-Dropping Charm, and the Great Bahn Mi Heist
Morning (or Whenever the Heck I Woke Up): Landed in Noi Bai Airport. Let's be honest, after 18 hours of travel, the only thing I wanted was a bed. The pre-booked airport transfer from the hotel materialized like a mirage. The driver, bless his heart, navigated Hanoi traffic with the grace of a caffeinated ballet dancer.
Afternoon: Arrived at the Blue Hanoi Inn. Okay, first impressions: the lobby? Gorgeous. All sleek lines, calming blues, and this incense-y smell that promised serenity (which, spoiler alert, I desperately needed). Checked in, and the staff was so genuinely friendly, I actually teared up a little. Jet lag, folks. It's a beast.
Afternoon – The Bahn Mi Predicament: My stomach started to rumble, which is basically an alarm system whenever I'm in a new place. I was determined to experience the real deal. And I heard about some phenomenal Bahn Mi around. Armed with a vague map and a burning desire for a perfect sandwich. I set off. Oh boy.
- The Chase: The first place, a little hole-in-the-wall, was closed. My inner monologue: "DE-FE-AT! This is how it starts, you know. The slow erosion of your travel dreams due to unforeseen closures.". The second, a bustling street vendor with a line a mile long. "Ambitious," I thought, queueing up. The aroma of roasting pork… it was torture. Eventually, I got to the front. And the sandwich…GONE. They'd run out. The woman just shrugged and smiled. I almost (ALMOST) cried.
- The Victory: Down, but not out. I stumbled upon a tiny stall a few blocks away, and I'm telling you, the Bahn Mi was a revelation. Crisp baguette, savory pork, the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, everything wrapped in a perfect little package.
Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant recommended by the hotel. Honestly, I don’t even remember the name. All I remember is a lot of delicious food, way too much beer, and feeling ridiculously, ridiculously happy. Seriously, that first evening in Hanoi? Magic.
Day 2: Culture Shock, Cyclo Rides, and the Coffee That Almost Killed Me (in a Good Way)
Morning: Started with the hotel breakfast. The pho was incredible, the fruit was fresh, and the coffee… ah, the coffee. It was strong. Like, "staying up all night to contemplate the meaning of life strong". I downed two cups. I felt like I could conquer the world. (Spoiler: I mostly just wandered around in a caffeine-fueled haze for the next few hours.)
Mid-Morning: Booked a cyclo tour of the Old Quarter. This was simultaneously thrilling and terrifying. Navigating the chaos of Hanoi traffic on a tiny bicycle-powered cart? Let's just say my life flashed before my eyes approximately 17 times. The tour was great though – the ancient temples, the narrow streets, the sheer, overwhelming energy of the city.
Afternoon: A visit to Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. Yes, it was beautiful. Yes, I took photos. But honestly? The heat was killer, and all I could think about was getting back to the hotel's air conditioning and maybe a nap.
Afternoon – The Coffee Craze: I tried the egg coffee. Oh. My. God. It's like a fluffy, sweet, decadent custard floating on top of strong Vietnamese coffee. Pure heaven. I may have had three. (Remember that caffeine-fueled haze? Yeah, it's back.) I also found the hotel's location to convenient to seek out more coffee shop. I stayed in coffee shops for at least 3 to 4 hours.
Evening: Wandered around the night market. The energy was insane – music, food vendors, people everywhere. I bought a silk scarf that's probably overpriced and something I'll never wear (but it made me feel like a sophisticated traveler). Dinner at a street stall. I watched the locals, trying very hard to seem like I was doing it right.
Day 3: Water Puppets, Massage Mayhem, and the Bitter Reality of Goodbye
Morning: A visit to the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. It was surprisingly charming! The puppets were adorable, the music was catchy, and I had no idea what was going on, which made it even more fun.
Afternoon: Ah, the spa at the Blue Hanoi Inn. This was my ultimate savior. After all the walking and the chaos, getting a full-body massage was exactly what I needed. It was heavenly. I swear I briefly considered never leaving.
Afternoon – The Massage Incident: I was so relaxed. And then… the masseuse started on my feet. Now, I am ticklish. Extremely ticklish. I tried to be stoic. I tried to breathe. But every time her fingers touched my soles, I almost jumped off the table. I bet they still talk about me.
Evening: The dreaded packing. My heart sank when I started packing. It was time to go. Dinner was at the hotel restaurant. The food was good, but the feeling of sadness loomed above it, especially when considering the journey. A final, long look at the city lights.
Day 4: Departure – A Last Pho and a Tearful Farewell
Morning: One last delicious pho at a local restaurant. One last look at the crazy traffic. The airport transfer was easy, and even though I was exhausted, the memories of the amazing people I met and the food and drinks.
Departure: As the plane took off, I had a silly thought. Hanoi. It’s not a perfect trip – I got lost, I over-caffeinated; I missed the bus, and I failed miserably at haggling. But it was perfectly Hanoi. I promised myself I'd be back.
The Blue Hanoi Inn – The Verdict:
Look, this isn't a glossy review. The hotel wasn't spotless all the time. There were some tiny issues with the shower and the air conditioning once or twice. But honestly? The staff was incredible, the location was perfect, and the overall vibe was exactly what I needed. It was the kind of place that felt like a hug after a long, crazy day. Would I go back? In a heartbeat. And maybe, just maybe, I'll try to avoid the egg coffee next time. Maybe. (Probably not.)
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Blue Hanoi Inn: My Brain-Dump FAQs (Because Let's Be Real, You Need This!)
Okay, spill. Is the Blue Hanoi Inn REALLY as luxurious as it claims? I mean, "luxury" these days...
Alright, buckle up, because this is where it gets real. "Luxury" in Hanoi can mean anything from a slightly fancier bedsheet to, well, the Blue Hanoi Inn. And yes, in THIS case, they're actually delivering. I walked in, and honestly, my jaw *slightly* dropped. Think crisp white linens, a bathroom bigger than my first apartment, and a level of quiet that felt... illegal. It's not *Vegas* luxury, all glitz and show. It's the kind of quiet, refined luxury that whispers, "Relax. We got this." And after the chaos of Hanoi's Old Quarter? Sweet, sweet music to my frazzled nerves.
I will say, the AC was a little *too* good. Might have needed a sweater in July. Minor detail. But hey, nobody's perfect, right?
The spa! Everyone raves about the spa! Is it hype, or is it…heavenly?
Okay, the spa. THIS is where things get… personal. Let's just say, my shoulders were *screaming* after a week of lugging my backpack around. The Blue Hanoi Inn's spa? Pure. Freaking. Bliss. I opted for the deep tissue massage.
At first, I was a little nervous. "Deep tissue" often translates to "torture." But the therapist? She had the hands of an angel. Or maybe a ninja. Either way, she worked out knots I didn't even know I *had*. I swear, I felt like butter being kneaded. It wasn't just good; it was transformative. Okay, I might have snored a little. Don't judge. I was *transformed*.
And after? Ginger tea and that feeling of… lightness. The kind where you feel like you could float away. Highly recommend. Pack extra underwear – you might need to replace the ones you sweated through from pure relaxation.
Is the location convenient? I don’t want to spend half my trip in taxis.
Location, location, location! And the Blue Hanoi Inn nails it. It's kinda tucked away, which means it's quiet. But it's also close enough to the action. Like, walkable to the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and all the delicious street food you can possibly shove in your face.
That said... be prepared to navigate Hanoi's traffic. Scooters are EVERYWHERE. It's a cultural experience in itself, but I'm not gonna lie, the first few times crossing the street felt like a contact sport. Luckily, the hotel is usually a nice retreat from the chaos.
The food! What's breakfast like? Can I get a proper Pho fix to start the day?
Breakfast? Oh, the breakfast. Guys, it's a spread. Like, seriously. Pancakes, eggs, fruit, pastries, pho (YES!), and enough coffee to keep you wired until lunchtime. I may or may not have sampled a little bit of everything… more than once.
The pho was *legit*. The kind that warms you from the inside out. The pastries were perfectly flaky. The fruit was so fresh, I swear I could taste the sunshine. Look, I'm a sucker for a good breakfast, and this one delivered in spades. My only regret is that I only ate breakfast there three times. Should have gone all in.
Okay, Okay, so where are the downsides? Nothing's *perfect*, right? Dish the dirt.
Alright, honesty hour! It's not *all* sunshine and rainbows. Here's the slightly messy truth: The Wi-Fi was a little spotty in my room. Not a deal-breaker, but definitely annoying when trying to upload vacation photos. And the elevators… well, they're small. Like, "one person plus luggage" small. Prepare for a slight wait, especially during peak hours.
But honestly? Those are minor quibbles. Considering the overall experience, I'm reaching for any flaws at all. The biggest "downside" was probably having to leave. Seriously, I almost tried to stow away in the luggage, just to stay longer.
The staff! What about the service? Are they genuinely helpful?
The staff? They were fantastic! genuinely polite and helpful, and they always had a smile. I had some questions about booking a cooking class. They not only gave me excellent recommendations but also offered to call and book it. This saved me a ton of effort.
I felt like they genuinely cared that I was happy. It's those little things that make a difference, you know? They were quick to offer extra towels, and helped with taxi bookings. Just lovely people.
Is it worth the price? I'm on a budget, but...
Look, let's be real, Hanoi can be done *cheap*. But the Blue Hanoi Inn? It's… not budget. You're paying for a premium experience. And honestly? I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
Consider this: After a few weeks of backpacking and roughing it, the Blue Hanoi Inn was like finding an oasis in the desert. It was *worth* every penny for the peace, the pampering, and the escape from the hustle and bustle. Think of it as an investment in your sanity. You only live once, right?
Tell me more about that spa experience! Did you go back? Give me all the messy, glorious details!
Okay, fine. You twisted my arm. Let's talk spa. So, I went back. Twice. I mean, how could I not? The first time was that mind-blowing deep tissue. Second time? I tried the hot stone massage. HOLY. MOLY.
Picture this: They place these warm, smooth stones on your back, and the therapist works them and me into a state of complete zen. I swear, I could feel the tension just melting away. My shoulders, usually a tight knot of anxiety, were finally at peace. I felt like a pampered cat, purring with contentment. Okay, maybe I drooled a little again. It was just so good. The aromatherapy oils? Heavenly. The music? Peaceful. The whole experience? Pure, unadulterated bliss. I'm seriouslyBook a Stay
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