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Hanoi map and directions for a travel schedule of 2 days

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One of the toughest problems existing in Hanoi is the complex system of city transportation. Due to the long-age formation of this metropolis, as well as a terrible long-term plan of zoning, even the locals agree that it’s easy to get lost in Hanoi center. As a result, in the case of foreign travelers, no matter how experienced they are, they still need Hanoi map and directions so that they can avoid being lost.

This issue is more important if the visitors want to explore Hanoi by themselves. Once they don’t get exact direction, it will be time-consuming to let them arrive at their final destinations. Unfortunately, the majority of the Vietnamese are not really good in English. Or their speaking skills can be so terrifying that you cannot understand even one word. Asking for help is sometimes impossible. What the guests always put in their bags, therefore, is a mobile device with GPS system, or a paper map.

If you or your relatives have a plan for a 2-day trip in Hanoi, what I will suppose below could be very helpful. Instead of checking Google Maps frequently, or buying a map from the Internet or somewhere, by reading it, you will have general direction in the inner city. Actually, transport in Hanoi outskirts is not quite complicated. But I think it’s unnecessary because your limited schedule will obstruct you to discover this area. So firstly, let’s focus on a few central districts of Hanoi these days.

Hanoi map and directions from the airport to your hotel

To facilitate your journey, booking a room in a hotel inside Hoan Kiem District is sensible. Indeed, most of Hanoi attractions are located in and around the district. So you can save up your time significantly. However, it is problematic that the international airport, Noi Bai Airport, is sited in the suburb, very far from the city center. Consequently, if you plan to travel by yourself, you are unlikely to know what you should do after leaving the plane. For example, taking a taxi could be very costly. Because some drivers usually prefer a long route to earn more money from you. Meanwhile, shuttle buses might take you to a wrong destination. To make this point clearer, I imagine that you make reservation at a hotel beside Hoan Kiem Lake. And then, your best route is illustrated by the image below.

Go out of the airport and turn left to Vo Nguyen Giap Street. Cross over Red River => Present in Vo Chi Cong Street.  Turn left to Hoang Hoa Tham Street, then pass through Hanoi Botanic Garden. Travel through Phan Dinh Phung Street, turn right to Hang Cot Street. Turn left to Hang Luoc Street. Finally, you can see Hoan Kiem Lake at the end of the road.

A suggestive hotel there is Apricot Hotel (No.136 Hang Trong Street).

HANOI MAP AND DIRECTIONS FOR THE FIRST DAY

In the morning

The first tourist spots on the first day is usually the Old Quarter. Located in the north and the west of Hoan Kiem Lake, actually, this sector is a system of numerous streets. Just go around it once, you will certainly get lost. That’s why a first-timer is advised to travel only some prominent streets, such as Hang Gai for silk products, Hang Dao for clothes, and Cha Ca Street for traditional restaurants. Remember that there are countless one-way streets surrounding Hoan Kiem Lake. So, it would take a great deal of time to stop at your preferable places by vehicles. Meanwhile, the Old Quarter is quite small. It would be better if you go on foot. Hanoi map and directions in this case is like the image below.

From Le Thai To Street => Turn left to Luong Van Can Street => Turn left to Hang Gai Street

Or from Le Thai To Street, turn left to Luong Van Can Street. Turn right to Cau Go Street, and turn left to Hang Dao Street

Another choice: From Le Thai To Street, and turn left to Luong Van Can Street.Go straight ahead to Cha Ca Street

If you are a shopaholics, do not miss Dong Xuan Market in the north of the Old Quarter. What you need to do is following this direction:

Start from Le Thai To Street , turn left to Luong Van Can Street. Turn right to Cau Go Street, and then turn left to Hang Dao Street. Go straight ahead until you see Cau Dong Street

What’s more?

If possible, you could spend little time on taking photographs at Long Bien Bridge, an ancient construction mainly made of steel. Nonetheless, it’s a bit far from Hoan Kiem Lake, and consequently, just take consideration of your health condition carefully.

From Le Thai To Street, turn left to Luong Van Can Street. Go straight ahead to Hang Giay Street, turn right to Gam Cau Street. Then you can see the bridge on the opposite site of Yen Phu Street.

In the afternoon

After regaining your energy, I suggest that you should visit the French Quarter in the south of Hoan Kiem Lake. Since the region comprises the roads connecting with each other like a chessboard, your travel will be simplified. Renting a bike is advisable. Anyway, your route to have an excursion of noticeable attractions there could be:

From Hoan Kiem Lake, move to Trang Thi Street. Turn left to Tran Quoc Dat Street , and turn right to Hai Ba Trung Street. Turn left to Hoa Lo Street to visit Hoa Lo Prison

After that, go straight ahead and turn left to Ly Thuong Kiet Street to visit Vietnamese Women’s Museum

Next, continue going on Ly Thuong Kiet Stree. Turn left to Phan Chu Trinh Street, and visit Hanoi Opera House

In the following stage, turn right to Trang Tien Street to visit Museum of National History

Finally, go out of the museum, turn left and go straight to visit Trang Tien ice-cream restaurant and go back Hoan Kiem Lake.

HANOI MAP AND DIRECTIONS FOR THE SECOND DAY

In the morning

Never forget that Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is only open in the morning, expect for Monday and Friday. That’s why it’s your stoppage on the second morning in Hanoi. Using bike again is a suggesstion for you because it’s in the vicinity of Hoan Kiem Lake. Hanoi map and directions for you are:

From Hoan Kiem Lake, move to Trang Thi Street. After that, turn right to Tho Nhuom Street, and turn left to Hang Bong Street.  Turn right to Dien Bien Phu Street, go straight and turn left when you see Le Hong Phong Street. Turn right to Ngoc Ha Street before you stop at No.19 to enter Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

Parking plot is available there.

In the afternoon

Spending almost the morning to observe Ho Chi Minh’s Complex and One Pillar Pagoda, your next places of interest is West Lake, the largest lake in the north of Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Grateful for a short distance, it is a good location to take a rest and have lunch as well. Hanoi map and directions for you then are:

From Ngoc Ha Street, firstly, turn left to Le Hong Phong Street, and turn left to Chu Van An Street. Pass a roundabout to turn left to Dien Bien Phu Street. Then turn right to Doc Lap Street (Many head offices of Vietnam’s important political departments are located there, while Ba Dinh Square is on your left). Go straight and turn left to Hoang Van Thu Street and turn right to Hung Vuong Street.  Pass two intersections and attend Thanh Nien Street, and move until you see West Lake on the left and Truc Back Lake on the right. Then,  stop at the entrance of Tran Quoc Pagoda.

You can park your bike at the restaurant opposite Tran Quoc Pagoda and have a brisk walk around West Lake before tasting wonderful food there. I guess you will need at least 2 hours to retrieve your energy as well as enjoy the magnificence and freshness of the lake.

What’s next?

The final attraction in this itinerary is the Temple of Literature, or Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam in Vietnamese, the first university of Vietnam. What you should do are:

From Thanh Nien Street, turn left to Thuy Khue Street, then turn left to Mai Xuan Thuong Street. Next,  turn left to Phan Dinh Phung Street, after that, turn right to Hung Vuong Street. Pass through Presidential Palace and then turn left to Hoang Van Thu Street. Turn right to Doc Lap Street,  turn left to Dien Bien Phu Street, tTurn right to Chu Van An Street. Go ahead and turn left to Nguyen Thai Hoc Street.  turn right to Van Mieu Street, and turn right to Quoc Tu Giam Street. Finally, you can visit the Temple of Literature.

Go to the airport

A bit different from the journey in which you leave the airport, in order to move to Vo Chi Cong Street from Hoan Kiem Lake, you could:

Move to Trang Thi Street, turn right to Dien Bien Phu Street. Next, turn left to Tran Phu Street, go ahead and you will see Kim Ma Street. Then, turn right to Dao Tan Street, and turn left to Vo Chi Cong Street at the second intersection.

I hope that with Hanoi map and directions I’ve given to you, the worry about being lost could be blown away when you have a short trip in this city. Just save it in your computer or mobile phone. Of course, transport wardens often patrol around some streets in the inner city. But ironically, most of them aren’t expert in English. As a consequence, don’t spend time on trying to communicate with them.

What are the best family hotels in Hanoi for vacation in Vietnam?

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Have you ever wondered that when you find accommodation for your family during an outbound trip, there are loads of falsified information about bad-condition hotels? That’s why you need get to know the best family hotels in Hanoi for vacation in Vietnam to avoid to be deceived. This article will suggest you some of them to let you make your holiday of a lifetime.

1. Splendid Hotel & Spa

Address: No.06, Hang Hanh Street, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi

Located in the center of Hanoi, Splendid Hotel & Spa offers your family a perfect view of Hoan Kiem Lake from open windows, and convenience if your companions want to discover the Old Quarter, The Temple of Literature and other attractions, which is not far away from the hotel.

With well-appointed amenities such as wireless internet access, refrigerators, private bathrooms, or 24-hour airport shuttles, your family can take pleasure in luxurious services the hotel brings to you. Noticeably, there are 20 guestrooms in the hotel with comfortable bedding suitable for all your family members. Besides, you can request an extra one with reasonable prices.

  • Near attractive areas
  • Lakeview
  • Sumptuous facilities

2. The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa

Address: No. 20-22 Chan Cam Street, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi

One of the best family hotels in Hanoi which should be mentioned is The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa.  Inside the Old Quarter, the hotel gives you a chance to soak in one of the most bustling area in Hanoi at night after a few minute walking. Therefore, finding shopping streets around Dong Xuan Market, or wandering around Hoan Kiem Lake to enjoy street music performances at the weekend is a simple task for your family.

While resting a wide ranges of rooms attached with several modern appliances, you are also provided with the service at Swan Spa and Treatments, a magnificent facility of the hotel. After using it, you can turn yourself to a prettier person after the treatment whether you are male or female. Besides, rooms of The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa are decorated following such a royal style that your family might feel like staying in a castle.

  • Golden decoration
  • Spa and restaurant
  • Inside the Old Quarter
  • Extraordinary services

3. JW Marriott Hotel Hanoi

Address: No.8 Do Duc Duc Street, Nam Tu Liem District, Hanoi

JW Marriott Hotel Hanoi has received many good international reviews as one of the best family hotels in Hanoi. Although it has a long distance from the center of Hanoi, its location is close to the most active commercial areas in the capital, and this’s the reason for a fact that it will be a great choice if you are going to be in a business trip.

Surrounded by a wide playground, this lavish hotel can assure that your children will have a chance to run around and play in the open air. The views from JW Marriott Hotel Hanoi is towards green areas, allowing you to rejoice in nature and fresh air. Apart from approximately 300 rooms and five-star furniture, baby-sitting services and swimming pools are also provisioned to your family.

  • Five-star accommodation
  • Playground
  • Impressive outside
  • Professional services

4. Intercontinental Hanoi Westlake

Address: No.1A Nghi Tam Street, Tay Ho district, Hanoi

Another choice for best family hotels in Hanoi well-known among foreign visitors is Intercontinental Hanoi Westlake. Nearly a 40-minute drive from Noi Bai airport, you don’t need to wait for a long time to arrive this 5-star hotel. Moreover, just have a short walk, and then you can attend Westlake, a wonderful attraction in Hanoi, where you are able to partake in sports such as jogging or canoeing.

Of course, there isn’t a dearth of high-tech relaxed devices in every room of the hotel. Also, using refrigerators and bathrooms with bathrobes and obtaining city views are available. For leisure activities, you could travel to a restaurant and a bar inside the hotel to wind up in the evening. And for more relaxation with your loved ones, a swimming pool and a sauna are the best selections for your family.

  • Sumptuous facilities
  • Extraordinary services
  • Lakeview
  • Five-star accommodation

5. Hanoi Bonsella Hotel

Address: No.3 Bao Khanh Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

When referring to a kid-attracting hotel, you should find more information about Hanoi Bonsella Hotel. Actually, the hotel is very close to Hoan Kiem Lake and Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, merely a 2-minute walk. As a result, your children can observe amusing shows performed in the theater, or take part in many dynamic activities around Hoan Kiem Lake at the weekend Some of such games are to balance themselves with hoverboards, and to play music with street musicians.

Additionally, the hotel provides you with a lot of amenities to look after your young children such as cribs and added rollaway beds. In the case that you feel retired, take it easy and look at Hoan Kiem Lake from the window in your room. It is thought that your mind would be refreshed immediately.

  • Lakeview
  • Near attractive spots
  • Professional services

6. Noble Boutique Hotel

Address: No.98 Hang Gai Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

To plunge yourself in a historical but bustling atmosphere in the Old Quarter with your family, a marvelous suggestion for you could be Noble Boutique Hotel. It’s also one of the best family hotels in Hanoi due to many reasons.  Firstly, the location is at Hang Gai Street, the most active road which allows you to attend food streets, shopping markets on foot. Upon your arrival there, you can be exposed to thousands of prompting toys and tasty meals to buy for your child.

Secondly, the hotel caters many choices of guestrooms. On the basis of your family members, you are able to have an option among several spacious room. Moreover, if you are a fan of handmade clothing, just go to Thuy Ky Shop inside the hotel. Not only handkerchiefs, table clothes, but also bed linens, pillows are all made of first-rate fabric cotton, wonderful furniture to let you improve the grandeur of your bedrooms.

  • Textile shop
  • Inside the Old Quarter
  • Professional services
  • Sumptuous facilities

7. Fraser Suites Hanoi

Address: No.51 Xuan Dieu Street, Tay Ho District, Hanoi

If you and your family need to stay away from noise in the inner city, you should travel to Fraser Suites Hanoi. Owing to the location in the oasis, an unpolluted area, the hotel offers an exceptional view of the Westlake. In addition, you can go around to relish refreshing air that is very beneficial to your health, especially to stabilize your mind and relieve depression after stressful work.

The hotel, admittedly, is so professional that it has a wide range of service to let you family relax comfortably. Such must-go facilities as Al Fresco, an Italian restaurant, bars, swimming pools, and tea houses, etc… are likely perfect places for parents, while a fascinating garden should be not missed since it enables your family to go sightseeing along a small path and then get a view of the Westlake and ancient pagodas.

  • Lakeview
  • Playground
  • Sumptuous facilities
  • Extraordinary services

In general, these are all the best family hotels in Hanoi I suggest you. Perhaps, this is to some extend dependent on my subjective feelings. But please, believe in me! After coming there, you and your family will be absolutely impressed with what they serve to you.

Swan’s Gone Raw Vegetarian Restaurant – Review: Unexpected fairyland for vegetarians

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Finding a vegetarian restaurant nowadays is not really difficult, but searching for a top-quality one is problematic. This could become a huge problem if you prefer the eatery in the Old Quarter. However, by visiting Swan’s Gone Raw Vegetarian Restaurant, I passed this problem very easily. You still don’t believe it, do you? Alright, just read Swan’s Gone Raw Vegetarian Restaurant – Review below. Then, you will imagine what I enjoyed there.

Like many people, I often worry about my health since two years ago, a doctor said to me that I was overweight, and to stay away from obesity, I had to follow a vegan diet. Complying with this suggestion, I have gradually become a vegetarian. Whenever and wherever I am, I always favor vegetable and fruit for my meal. Even when I attend Hanoi for my holiday, I still kept this habit. Luckily, I read an article about Swan’s Gone Raw Vegetarian Restaurant on the Internet, and then I booked a room at Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel, of which the restaurant is an integral part. After staying there, all my concerns about it were blown away.

Swan’s Gone Raw Vegetarian Restaurant – Review about location

In fact, I wanted to enjoy my trip to Hanoi by myself, so I didn’t register any services provided by Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel. Instead of being picked up by the hotel’s car, I just took a taxi to travel around Hanoi capital upon my arrival at Noi Bai airport. Until the evening, I went to the restaurant at No.16H Duong Thanh Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. It is quite simple to find it because the restaurant is inside an outstanding building lying in a small valley, 10 meters away from the main road.

Interestingly, despite the site in the center of the Old Quarter, the ambiance in this place is pretty tranquil and silent. Perhaps for many vegetarians, it is so suited to them that they can enjoy their meals and achieve peace in their mind. And this is also my ambition. Nonetheless, if someone aspires to engage in prompting activities in the Old Quarter, or wander around Hang Da Shopping Mall, Hoan Kiem Lake, Dong Xuan Market after having meals, he or she merely needs a few minutes to walk from the restaurant.

  • Easy to find
  • Tranquil and peaceful
  • Near exciting attractions

Swan’s Gone Raw Vegetarian Restaurant – Review about building outside

As I mentioned, due to a fact that the restaurant is operated by Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel, a member of Thuy Ky Hospitality Group, it is inside a 9-story building. More exactly, it occupies the whole second floor of the property. I have to say that its outside consists of European architectural style and Vietnamese one. The first proof for this is an ancient gate near the restaurant. The second could be several ornaments and balcony outlines, meanwhile, the third is the floor with impressive tiles.

I asked an employee and then received an answer that the building, indeed, is recreated based on an old house from the period of French colonization at the beginning of the 20th century. That is the reason why the restaurant obtains two exciting feature: modern and antiquated.

  • Outstanding
  • Modern but antiquated

Swan’s Gone Raw Vegetarian Restaurant – Review about space

Following the guidance of the staff, I turned left from the entrance of the building, went up to the stairs to present in Swan’s Gone Raw Vegetarian Restaurant. And what I said at the first sight was “What an amazing space!”

“Spacious” and “warm” are the most exact words to describe the restaurant. It can serve dozens of customers at the same time while all eaters still feel very comfortable. Moreover, it is very strange that the rest of the hotel is painted with white color, whereas the walls of the restaurant are orange, which enhances the warmth inside the restaurant. This is because, from the employee’s explanation, in the Vietnamese belief, vegan meals are considered as cold food, and therefore, if people eat them excessively, their body temperatures will decrease, leading to certain illnesses. To solve this, they need something warm, and one of the solutions is to create a warm ambiance.

Because the time I arrived was a bit early to have dinner, there was only me in this place. But when I finished my meal, about over 10 people were staying there.

Swan’s Gone Raw Vegetarian Restaurant – Review about facilities

Turning to its facilities, firstly, I want to refer to appliances. From tables, chairs to cabinets, all of them are made of natural wood, improving luxury and grandeur for the restaurant. Tools for meals such as plates, spoons, cups, etc… are placed in a separate area very close to where the eaters sit. Consequently, they never wait for a long time to be served, or are able to serve themselves.

I also paid attentions to decorative objects. Bulbs with exotic shapes, Vietnamese lacquered paintings and the features of lotus printed in the windows are the most fascinating. There is no lack of unique ornaments such as ceramic statues and vases.

Interestingly, a small window in the kitchen lets guest have a direct view of the chef’s process of making dishes. Actually, I’m a cooking lover too, and so seeing this operation was an intriguing experience for me to diversify the list of my recipes.

  • Warm and cozy
  • Luxurious and grand
  • Comfortable and convenient

Above all, Swan’s Gone Raw Vegetarian Restaurant – Review about food

It would be regrettable unless the food in the restaurant is not reviewed. As you mightn’t know, during its feudal period, Vietnam was deeply influenced by Buddhism ideology, which honors the abstention from killing animals, leading it to form the diversity of meatless dishes. Excitingly, this cultural aspect has still be kept until now, and can be seen in the restaurant’s menu. Therefore, all types of vegetarians can fulfil their demand, even in the case that they are discerning eaters. Actually, that is also the reason why I preferred Vietnam for my holiday.

More importantly, apart from Vietnamese dishes, the restaurant innovates numerous new recipes on the basis of European cuisine which no eateries can match. Such an exclusive feature can make many people be surprised, and I was no exception. As you can see from the menu, there are a wide range of dishes. And the prices are very cheap and affordable, about 2-4 USD/dish. This is because vegetable components for food in Vietnam are abundant due to favorable weather. Immediately, I ordered Asparagus soup, Clay pot tofu mushroom, and Four Seasons roll.

Awesome components

“It’s unbelievably scrumptious!” – These dishes were much more delicious than I had expected.

One beneficial point is that all fruits and vegetable for dishes are very fresh and clean. From what I observed, it seems that they come from a well-known organic farm, Van Noi farm, in Hanoi and lots of famous food companies. As a result, the restaurant can bring the highest quality to its customer, and of course, they do not need to worry about food hygiene and food safety. Interestingly, this was the first time I could eat the whole three dishes when I dined out. I recommend that even if you are not a vegetarian, you should taste that unforgettably delicious food there once.

In order to discover Vietnamese cuisine more, for my dessert, I chose Sweet lotus bean longan gruel. Everything is perfect! Consequently, on the following days in Hanoi, I always visited Swan’s Gone Raw Vegetarian Restaurant for all my meals.

  • Savory and tasty
  • Plentiful
  • Cheap but 5-star-quality

The final point in Swan’s Gone Raw Vegetarian Restaurant – Review about staff

There are about 20 employees in the restaurant, and all of them very friendly and willing to help me everything. For example, I didn’t need to search for a parking area since the security did this for me, or some guests attending there later could find comfortable seats within a few seconds. Moreover, they are very agile and good at reaction. None of guests have to wait for meals too long.

It’s noticeable that the chefs working for the restaurant are very reachable. They do not hesitate to guide some eaters through the precise methods to process vegetable components, and provide some special recipes. Admittedly, I learnt several valuable lessons from them and successfully cooked new dishes for my loved ones after I went back home.

  • Hospitable and helpful
  • Reachable
  • Like professional teachers

All in all, tasting food at Swan’s Gone Raw Vegetarian Restaurant is one of the most memorable experiences during my life. From facilities to dishes, none of them will dissatisfy you. My review is somehow incomplete since it cannot describe something very abstract. That’s why I think you should go there to feel the fairyland for vegetarians by yourself.

Spa review – Swan Spa and Treatments: Paradise to perfect human beauty

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One of people’ habits these days is to beautify themselves, even when they are on holiday. Of course, I’m no exception. During the time I traveled to Hanoi, I visited Swan Spa and Treatments to take care of my body. If you have the same plan as mine in the capital of Vietnam, how about experiencing this spa once? Of course, you might doubt it. That’s why you need to read my spa review – Swan Spa and Treatments firstly.

Before any outbound trips, I often prepare myself very carefully, from attractive destinations to some places for resting. That is the reason why I searched for a spa near the Old Quarter to facilitate my journey. Suddenly, an article about The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa was shown up, and then I was interested in a spa called Swan Spa and Treatments inside it. Immediately, I booked a room at the hotel, and eagerly waited for the trip.

Fortunately, as soon as I arrived at Noi Bai airport, because I had registered the services of pick-up with 25 USD provided by the hotel, neither waiting nor finding a taxi, I was taken   by a car directly to the hotel. Therefore, I just needed only 40 minutes to present in my accommodation.

Location

Let’s start my spa review – Swan Spa and Treatments with its address – No.20-22 Chan Cam Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. Due to the site in the Old Quarter, one of the most dynamic and active regions in Hanoi, when standing in front of the spa at night, I could see dozens of colorful shops, several hordes of tourists and motorbikes. If I hadn’t have my heavy luggage beside me, I would have blended myself in this prompting ambiance. By the way, the spa is next to The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa, where I stayed for three days. So I didn’t worry about moving between two places too long. And moreover, after treatment, I could discover Hoan Kiem Lake, Hang Da shopping mall with only a 3-mintue walk.

  • Bustling area
  • Favorable to travel
  • Easy to find

Building surface

Not so prominent like the hotel next door, the spa operates it functions inside an ordinary house. In my opinion, this property has many Vietnamese features, for example, simplicity and intimacy. To some extent, it is like a special shop which serves special services. However, to notify people about its location, the spa uses a large black board with golden words carve on it. I didn’t know exactly why I still felt the luxury and grandeur of the spa. Possibly, they could come from the decorative objects, such as glass windows, the sign and lights, in the entrance.

  • Simple and intimate
  • Elegant
  • Noticeable

The spa’s facilities

From some information of another spa review – Swan Spa and Treatments, and what I observed, this place is divided into two main operational areas. The front, where I entered from the road, is a bit smaller, and includes a large floor and a loft. The former, interestingly, is only dedicated to massage chairs. After suffering from treatments, a customer can rest there to enjoy slow body massage. Meanwhile, the latter is for guests who want to have some cups of coffee. Actually, at the time I had just arrived, all massage chairs were occupied, and the customers had to go up the loft to wait for their turns.

The spa was a bit crowded, and consequently, it took me some minutes to go through a lobby to attend the center of the spa. Excitingly, this place is open air, making the spa become more airy. And the back part is also there, a separate 3-story building hidden away from the street. Most services of the spa are operated inside it, and each story is for different treatments. There are an integral door for the guests from the hotel, and the stairs to enter the building. Due to a green carpet covering the stairs, all guests have to take off their shoes before entering.

First floor

In the first floor of the building, a reception area and waiting chairs are placed in a corner, while the rest of the room is for treatment beds. The ambiance is very tranquil and peaceful. But my first impression was a lemon odor floating in the room. Obviously, the spa uses a chemical with this odor to disinfect its facilities, proving that it always pays attention to sanitization. Then I looked at the bed sheets which have a logo of Thuy Ky Hospitality Group, of which the spa is a member. They are very soft and smooth, and seem to be 100% handmade. Near the wooden stair to go up the second floor are modern machines and chemicals. In fact, the services in the first floor are only facial treatments.

Second floor

The employees are very friendly and hospitable. They allowed me to have an excursion of the spa. And therefore, I presented in the second floor for more spa review – Swan Spa and Treatments later. There is the only room in this place, and it is used for treating human belly such as liposuction. Moreover, a mirror is appointed to let the customers check their body. In spite of too many cutting-edge machines, the room is still very spacious.

Third floor

My final destination is the third room. Its main operation is to take care of the whole human body. As a result, the area for this is the largest. Apart from three beds, the room also consists of a sauna, the shelves for placing towels and materials for treatments. Of course, there is no lack of lenient lights and delicate paintings on the walls. Although I hadn’t used any services, I felt very restful and comfortable, perhaps due to the warm and cozy atmosphere created by them.

  • Modern and cutting-edge
  • Full of services
  • Airy and spacious

Treatment

From what I read in its advertisement, Swan Spa and Treatments provides four main treatments, namely Facial care, Body massage, Waxing and Slimming Cavi Lipo 3D. Because of my limited time in Hanoi and the preference of my face, I only chose Facial care and Body massage. In fact, each treatments has several options for all types of customers and all parts of human organs. As a result, even the customers having limited budget as well the ones requiring top quality can find the packages suitable for them. And in my case, I favored Facial care with seasonal fruit and Traditional Vietnamese massage.

I merely paid about 24 USD for facial care within 60 minutes. Due to being too late and many customer waiting for treatments, I went to the spa again in the morning of the following day. Fortunately, because I was a guest of The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa, the spa prioritized me to serve. Lying on the bed, I received an exceptional treatment from the employee vised in facial massage. More importantly, from the name, all materials are natural fruits with high quality and freshness, so I didn’t feel any unpleasantness. Until the employee woke me up, I realized the treatment was finished. Looking at myself in the mirror, it was unbelievable that my face skin became whiter and finer after only a treatment.

What’s more in spa review – Swan Spa and Treatments?

On the last day I accommodated at the hotel, I suffered from Body massage at the third floor of the spa, and paid approximately 290 USD, very cheap and affordable. Nonetheless, it doesn’t mean that it is low-quality and harmful. Like the experience of Facial care, this service is very great and prime. With skillful hands, the employee made me so restful that I didn’t know when I fell to sleep. I also highly appreciated traditional Vietnamese massage technique because after only 90 minutes, it seemed that I was healthier and stronger. Perhaps this effect comes from effective materials and the special methods of punching and clapping which I hadn’t seen before.

  • Excellent and effective
  • Diverse
  • Restful

Staff

Regarding spa review – Swan Spa and Treatments about the employees, apparently, there is no need to complain of the spa’s them. Because they are very professional and vised in massage and treatments. Firstly, whenever I asked them about the spa, they explained me very carefully and fluently in English. Indeed, the language barrier didn’t exist between me and them. Secondly, their specialization achieves such a high level that even discerning guests could be gratified. This is because one of the spa’s rigorous requirements for recruitment is to get many years of experience to work for, at least, one renowned spas. Another information I got to know is that the number of the spa’s employees is up to over 10 people, and will increase in the near future.

  • Friendly
  • Hospitable
  • Professional

To summarize, if you want to beautify yourself, just do as I do: attend Swan Spa and Treatments. Probably, my spa review – Swan Spa and Treatments doesn’t describe some indescribable features precisely. But believe in me! You will never be let down once you have a go at only a treatment at this place.

Restaurant review about Hanoi Jade Restaurant & Patisserie – The exhibition of mixed cuisine

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Have you ever heard of Hanoi Jade Restaurant & Patisserie before? In my case, the answer was “No”. But after the time I stayed there in October during my trip to Hanoi, I’m aware that it would be regrettable if you have the same answer as mine. Because you will never expect how diverse the cuisine the restaurant serves you is. And therefore, you should read my restaurant review about Hanoi Jade Restaurant & Patisserie.

In fact, I found the restaurant by chance. On the second day I was in Hanoi for my holidays, I decided to walk alone to Hoan Kiem Lake in the center of the capital. While I was wandering around the Old Quarter to search for a shortcut to the lake, I paid attention to a high building at Chan Cam Street. Going to this place, I realized a grand restaurant in the first floor. My stomach suddenly became noisy, announcing me that I needed something for lunch. Immediately, I entered Hanoi Jade Restaurant & Patisserie to have a go at its services. After that, it would let me down.

Restaurant review about Hanoi Jade Restaurant & Patisserie – Location

As I mentioned, the restaurant’s address is No.20-22 Chan Cam Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. As a part of the Old Quarter, this landmark contributes to the hustle and bustle of the city at night since lots of tourists choose it for dining. Additionally, it also allows eaters to continue their journey to Hanoi’s attractions such as Dong Xuan Market, Hoan Kiem Lake, Hang Da Shopping Mall within a few minutes. The first time I attended there was at midday, but the area was very silent. That was why then I could enjoy my meal without any disturbance.

  • Uproarious area
  • Convenient to travel
  • Easy to find

Restaurant review about Hanoi Jade Restaurant & Patisserie – Space

Outside building

Actually, the restaurant is an operational part of The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa. As a result, it gains royal outlines from the hotel which can be seen at the first sight. The first is that its sign can be recognized from a long distance based on the yellow words carved on a brown board. Next, to highlight lavish architecture more, the restaurant uses golden colonnades and lenient light in the entrance. Ultimately, there is no lack of luxurious stairs and white walls to let any eaters feel that they are going inside a European castle. It seems that 5-star services are waiting for everyone.

  • Outstanding and elegant
  • Royal design

Inside building

Following the staff’s guidance, I got a seat in the space under the reception area of The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa. It is unknown reason that the floor inside Hanoi Jade Restaurant & Patisserie is a bit lower than the street surface. However, this feature partly contributes to a warm and cozy air in this place. I started looking around and found something very interesting.

Firstly, tables and chairs are made of natural wood, very expensive and grand. Bowls, spoons, plates and forks are placed on the table, enabling the eater to have a meal as soon as he or she just sits down. Secondly, on the left of the restaurant are some huge cabinets, where several colorful ceramic vases are displayed. I asked an employee and then got to know that I couldn’t find something like such ornaments because the restaurant had commissioned Vietnamese craftsmen to make them.

Thirdly, on the right side are lots of paintings portraying dragon flies. Excitingly, from the answer the staff gave me again, in the Vietnamese belief, the dragon fly is the incarnation of luck, and so with these pictures, the restaurant just wants to bring luck to itself and every customer.

Moreover, at the end of the room, near the air condition, are the place dedicated to displaying dishes and cakes. Those who enjoy buffet frequently go around this area to choose what they prefer. Finally, I figured out that the restaurant is divided into three separate zones: the front to exhibit some cakes in a glass cupboard to sell passers-by, the center for seating and the back for cooking.

  • Sumptuous and grand
  • Warm and cozy
  • Meaningful ornaments

Restaurant review about Hanoi Jade Restaurant & Patisserie – Food

What makes many eaters so surprised is that the restaurant serves numerous dishes mixed between Vietnamese cuisine and Western one, and I was no exception. From the menu, there are 5 major types of dishes, namely soups, salad, Hanoi-style sandwich, appetizer and Hanoi food. The prices are very reasonable because even the most expensive dish is only about 7 USD. Consequently, I ordered “Bun cha” Hanoi style, deep-fried seafood and special beef salad for lunch.

“It’s so savory!” – I was stunned by “Bun cha” Hanoi style and understood why Mr. Barack Obama, the US Ex-President, favored this one when he visited Hanoi in 2016.

Of course, I went to the restaurant for my dinner and all meals on the following days. I also registered a packed of buffet to enjoy more dishes. None of them could disappoint me because they are so great that I haven’t forgotten their savor until now.

What’s more in my restaurant review about Hanoi Jade Restaurant & Patisserie?

Another noticeable point is the main business of Hanoi Jade Restaurant & Patisserie. It, indeed, is renowned for making delicious cakes. Its guest can choose cakes for desserts, or even main dishes owing to a fact that it provides a wide ranges of European cakes, from tiramisu, cupcakes to gateaux and macaron.

Their taste is so indescribably wonderful and addictive that I frequently ate them until my stomach was filled up. Admittedly, the prices of cakes are pretty cheap and affordable too, only 1-2 USD/cake. Before I left Hanoi some days later, I didn’t forget to buy a few to eat during the time I waited at the airport.

Especially, it is insisted that the restaurant has a distinct zone for the process of making cakes. I also had a chance to see it from the kitchen. This place always gives off the peculiar odors of vanilla, milk and powder. At that time, I desired to stay there forever.

Besides, I obtained an exhilarating experience to eat fruit with chocolate. In fact, there is a chocolate tower put on the table where cakes are also arranged. And what I had to do was just to take my fruit skewer to the tower and let the chocolate stick in it. Such a way of enjoying fruit is very strange and enthralling.

  • Mouthwatering and palatable
  • Diverse
  • Unbelievable

Restaurant review about Hanoi Jade Restaurant & Patisserie – Staff

In this restaurant, there can be no complaint for the employees because they are very hospitable and friendly. Just as I entered the eatery, they welcomed me with a bright smile. They proactively explained fluently and thoroughly all questions I asked in English, and of course, helped me for anything, from finding a comfortable seat to taking a menu. In addition, they never let any guest to wait for meals too long due to their special abilities: quick reaction and agile movement. Fascinatingly, I only waited for my meal within 5 minutes.

In conclusion, I recommend you to travel to Hanoi Jade Restaurant & Patisserie once. Even if you are a fussy eater, you will find the food in this place very suited to your taste. And moreover, you can use all 5-star-quality services. I assure that dissatisfaction doesn’t exist in everything of the restaurant.

Thuy Ky Hospitality Group – Review: Unexpectedly unique hotel chains

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One month ago, I had a serious problem that I couldn’t find suitable accommodation in the Old Quarter when I arrived in Hanoi. Luckily, my acquaintance then told me about Thuy Ky Hospitality Group – a top-quality hotel chains in the capital of Vietnam. Although at the first moment, I doubted about its reputation, I changed my mind immediately after having an experience there which you should try once. That is also the reason why I write Thuy Ky Hospitality Group – Review for you.

In fact, the group consists of three luxurious hotels: The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa, Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel, and Noble Boutique Hotel. All of them are located in the center of the Old Quarter and have distinctive services. Finally, I went to Noble Boutique Hotel, the hotel nearest me at that time.

Thuy Ky Hospitality Group – Review about members

Noble Boutique Hotel

Location

Let’s start with Thuy Ky Hospitality Group – Review about its member. The first one is Noble Boutique Hotel sited at No.98 Hang Gai Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. Indeed, Hang Gai Street is very uproarious since it always abounds to tourists, shops and vehicles. Therefore, during two days I stayed there, I could blend myself in daily life very easily. Moreover, it only took me three minutes to see Hoan Kiem Lake, the heart of Hanoi capital.

Building structure

“Western-style” and “Outstanding” are the words which can describe the hotel. The hotel is one of the highest building in this area, and therefore, everyone simply recognizes it from a long distance. Besides, the exterior surface is decorated with Western colonnades, grand outlines in balconies, making me feel that the hotel could be a huge mansion.

Lobby and room

All walls in the hotel are painted with white color, like European castles. When I entered the lobby, a lavish spacious area was in my sight. It is appointed with flowers, sofas and sparkling chandeliers. Besides, two separate reception tables allow to hotel to serve more customer at the same time, while some huge lacquered paintings hung on the wall make the lobby have certain Vietnamese features.

Checking in and obtaining a key of Deluxe Room, I merely paid 63.25 USD/night, very cheap and reasonable. Going up by a huge elevator, I attended my room a few minutes later. Actually, my first impression about this place was excellent. Most of appliances are made of wood, while beddings, especially, are 100% handmade. Moreover, pillows and bed sheets give off an exception odor, enhancing the grandeur of the room. I enjoyed the bathroom most because it is very clean and polished. Of course, the city view in the room is so great that I could see the whole street from above.

Facilities

There are two main facilities in Noble Boutique Hotel: The Sandwich Shop and Thuy Ky Shop. In fact, the former specializes in selling fast food and takeaways. However, I’m a vegetarian, and therefore, I just bought some drink there. But this shop is very elegant and noticeable because they have lots of impressive ornaments.

The latter, Thuy Ky Shop, has the business of selling hand embroidery clothes. Interestingly, all beddings in Thuy Ky Hospitality Group are provided by it. Moreover, there is a wide range of 100% handmade textile products sold at this place, from pillows, table clothes, to handkerchiefs, and bed sheets. They are quiet soft and smooth, and so, I purchased some of them as gifts for my loved ones.

Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel

Location

Owing to a fact that I preferred meatless meals, and wanted to continue Thuy Ky Hospitality Group – Review, I traveled to Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel, where a vegetarian restaurant is located. Immediately, I walked to No.16H, Duong Thanh Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi and it only took me 5 minutes to arrive there. This hotel, however, is in a small alley, a bit far away from the main street. That’s why the atmosphere is pretty tranquil and peaceful despite being in the Old Quarter.

Building

Though it only has 9 stories, the building is very peculiar and exclusive. From what I heard, it was recreated on the basis of an ancient house built nearly 100 hundred years ago. This could be seen in the gate, where I went through before standing in front of the hotel, balconies, and the floors inside it. To some extent, I assume that the building can have historical value to study.

Lobby and room

Another notable point of the hotel is the reception area. In the center of this zone is the reception table, meanwhile, on the right is the region where guests can sit down in a sofa, and choose a book from a large bookshelf to read. And the stairs to go up to the vegetarian restaurant is on the left. The lobby is highlighted more by French-style architecture in the exquisite arrangement of outlines. However, there is the existence of Vietnamese cultural features in paintings and wooden frames, creating an extraordinary combination of Vietnamese and European styles.

Of course, because I didn’t book a room in the hotel, I couldn’t wander in the higher floors. But with my observation, it is true that its guestrooms are not so different from the one I stayed. For example, the walls are still painted with white color, and odorous beddings are 100% handmade.

Restaurant

Stunned by the hotel’s structure, I forgot the reason why I was there until my stomach became noise. Following the guidance of the staff, I presented in Swan’s Gone Raw Vegetarian Restaurant in the second floor. Excitingly, this room is so disparate from the rest of the hotel because it has orange walls around four corners. The staff then explained that the Vietnamese believe vegan diets are considered to decrease human body temperatures if people eat them too much. In order to solve this problem, eaters need the warmth from something, and in this case, that is the color from the walls.

Enjoying the warm air, I found a seat near some ceramic statues and looked around. All decorative objects in this place, from pictures, bulbs to lotus flowers on the windows, have Vietnamese features, and such statues are no exception. Turning to food, there are also two major types of vegan dishes: Vietnamese and European. Little surprised, I ordered Vietnamese roll “Pho” with vegetable and spaghetti.

“What an awesome dish!” – I screamed so loud that some employees were startled.

The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa

Location

For more Thuy Ky Hospitality Group – Review, on the last day I stayed in Hanoi, I visited The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa. This one is not far away from the two other members because it takes only 4 minute to attend there. The site, fascinatingly, is the mixture between two places I had traveled. Located at No.20-22 Chan Cam Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, at the midday, the surrounding area is very silent, but becomes dynamic at night. Similarly, going to Hoan Kiem Lake is also a very simple task.

Building design

The hotel is no lack of splendor and opulence. At the first sight, golden colonnades, lenient light and delicate stairs could astonish any tourists. This 11-story building looks as if it’s a real Western castle in an Eastern country. It could be very hard to find the same one lying in the Old Quarter.

Inside the building

To increase the royal ambiance for the hotel, its owner arranges appliances in the lobby very meticulously, from sofas, a reception table to a piano. In particular, an exciting natural odor given off by air conditioners creates its differences from the other members. Wondrously, the elevator near the reception area is covered with a golden layer. It was regrettable that I didn’t select this place for accommodation.

Facilities

From what the hotel’s guests talked to me, all rooms in the hotel deserve to 5-star quality. Specifically, the most amazing things could be the paintings of a dragon fly. These pictures can be seen in Hanoi Jade Restaurant & Patisserie, one of two major facilities of the hotel. This is because the hotel just wants to bring luck, the incarnation of this insect in the Vietnamese belief, to their customers.

Turning to the restaurant, it’s very famous for making cakes rather than Vietnamese and European dishes. The space is warm and cozy with elegant tables, chairs and ceramic vases. But I don’t favor cakes much, and therefore, I just tasted some special food using wholly vegetable components.

Next to the hotel’s building is Swan Spa and Treatments. In fact, this place is so attractive to travelers since people these days tend to have a desire to beautify themselves. Nevertheless, my schedule in Vietnam didn’t allow me to try its high-quality services. Consequently, I had a knack for using massage chairs in the front area of the spa within a short time. This machine, though, gave me indescribable pleasure to let me rest entirely.

Thuy Ky Hospitality Group – Review about other services

It would be incomplete if I don’t mention Thuy Ky Hospitality Group – review about its services. The group can provide customers with three other services: Tours in Vietnam, Pick-up and drop-off at airport and visa on arrival. However, I had some assignments in another city, as a result, I didn’t have chance to check such services. But I believe that they are all excellent based on what the group already brought to me.

All in all, when you present in Hanoi, I think you should have an experience in Thuy Ky Hospitality Group. Whatever you prefer, such as accommodation, transportation, dining or shopping, it will never dissatisfy you. Perhaps after a stay there, you will create Thuy Ky Hospitality Group – Review like me.

Hotel review about Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel – Never regret after a short experience

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Do you have the same plan as mine: staying at Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel after merely reading an advertisement about it? Perhaps, you should pay attention to my hotel review about Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel. Because it is my real experience there. And firstly, I could say that you are unlikely to regret your belief in the hotel.

I hadn’t known the hotel until an article about the hotel appeared on the screen of my smartphone while I was checking Facebook. Finding it very interestingly, I had booked 3 nights at Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel and the service of pick-up at airport in advance before I started my trip to Vietnam in November. As soon as I arrived in Noi Bai airport, the hotel picked me up by using a 7-seater car. Thanks to this wonderful service since I didn’t need to disquiet about some problems related to Vietnamese transportation.

Hotel review about Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel site

The hotel’s address is No.16H Duong Thanh Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. However, when the car drove me there, none of hotels were in my vision. In fact, Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel is a bit far away from the main road, in a small valley. Getting out the car, and walking through an ancient gate beside No.16H Duong Thanh Street, I could see it as a modern 9-story building.

Due to its special location, this place is very quiet and peaceful, suitable for those who look for tranquility during their holidays. Nonetheless, just go back to the nearest street, they can blend themselves in uproarious food streets, wonderful shops since the hotel is, notably, in the center of the Old Quarter. Moreover, I could attend Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi Opera House, Hang Da shopping mall and several attractions in Hanoi within a 2-or-3-minute walking.

  • Silent
  • Near prompting areas
  • Inside the Old Quarter

Hotel review about Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel building structure

From I read in the article, the hotel is recreated on the basis of an ancient French house build at the beginning of the 20th century. Indeed, some outlines reflecting this special origin could be seen even when I stood in the front of the hotel. They are distinctive balconies, windows on the high stories and especially, strange light bulbs made of metal outside the building. Apart from this, the gate near the main street, as I mentioned, was actually erected by Japanese dozens of years ago, and has remained until now. However, after being repaired, the hotel has also got modern architectural structure, such as glass doors, colonnades, contributing to the hotel’s unique combination.

  • French style
  • Peculiar structure
  • Outstanding

Hotel review about Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel space

Reception

Passing the entrance is the reception area. This place is a bit larger than some hotels I stayed since it is divided to many zones. The reception table is straight at the entrance, and on the left are the stairs to go to Swan’s Gone Raw Vegetarian Restaurant. Meanwhile, the right zone is dedicated to book lovers because the hotel appoints with some tables, sofas as well as a huge bookshelf. Some books put on it introduce about Hanoi and its history, very fascinating for foreign travelers.

Of course, the space inside the hotel is no lack of grandeur and luxury. This could be shown in wooden ornaments, lenient light, and the French-style floor. To highlight the wondrous combination between two types of architecture, this place also displays some Vietnamese paintings that I bought a few like them in the Old Quarter.

  • Luxurious and grand
  • Spacious
  • Reading area

Room

Because I didn’t have any acquainted companion during the trip in Vietnam, I preferred staying alone in Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel. That was why I booked Superior City View, the guestroom with only the area of 18 square meters. The price is very reasonable. I made a reservation directly, and therefore, I just paid 45 USD/night.

Completing some procedures, and receiving the key of my room, when I went to the elevator, a wooden door near it was in my sight. Surprisingly, this is an entrance of a bathroom for guests who are waiting for checking in. Such a room, however, doesn’t exist in some ordinary hotels.

Following the staff, I attended in the 6th floor 3 minutes later. As I had expected, the room is not quite spacious, and painted with the same color – while – in the lobby. Admittedly, my room has full of necessary appliances. From a double bed, tables, chairs, to a large cabinet, drawers and the floor are wooden and expensive. Meanwhile, all bedding is 100% handmade, very smooth and soft. They give off an exceptional odor that I had never smelt before. Moreover, the pillows are sow with the feature of daisy, plus cozy lights, making the ambiance more lavish.

What’s else?

A smart TV is opposite to the bed, above the drawers, where I found a menu for ordering something and a few snacks and fruits. Drinks are inside the refrigerator in the corners. I didn’t forget to open the door to see Hanoi from above. Like its name, the room gives the customer an unforgettable view of the Old Quarter. It would be more interesting if I saw the scenery through handmade 2-layer curtains. It seems that everything behind the curtains could become more mystical.

What I noticed then was the bathroom. The hotel’s rooms system is so extraordinary that every room has a private bathroom, no matter how large it is. In reality, this facility is very clean and polished, like 5-star hotel. While a washbasin has beautiful outlines, surrounded a shower are exorbitant and exclusive tiles. Free toiletries are also placed near the mirror.

  • Excellent facilities
  • Natural odor
  • 5-star quality

The most important part of my hotel review about Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel – Restaurant

The reason why I favored this hotel is that it has Swan’s Gone Raw Vegetarian Restaurant – a typical Vietnamese vegetarian eatery. Although I’m not a fan of vegetarian ideology, I want to enjoy a meatless dish since I know that Vietnamese culture affected strongly by Buddhism has created the diversity of tasty and healthy vegan food. By the way, the restaurant is located in the second floor, very easy to find. Due to occupying a large area, it can serve a lot of eaters at the same time.

Of course, for my hotel review about Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel, I attended the restaurant to describe it more exactly. The first impression of some guests, including me, could be its shade. Unlike the rest of the hotel, it is painted with orange hue, a very warm color. This is because in the Vietnamese belief, vegan food is very cold, and if people eat it too much, their body temperature will decrease, leading to some illnesses. As a result, they need something to balance their body temperature, and one of the solution is to use hot color like that to form a warm ambiance.

All tables and chairs with elegant design are made of natural wood. Above the guest’s head are lights with some separate shapes I didn’t know exactly what it meant. Other strange ornaments such as ceramic flowers, the features of lotus on the window glass, Vietnamese paintings are also noticeable. But more excitingly, there is a window in the kitchen, enabling me to see the process of cooking.

What’s in the menu?

From the main menu of the restaurant, there are two major types of vegan dishes: Vietnamese and European. I hadn’t thought that the restaurant could have invented certain food based on Western cuisine. Immediately, I ordered three dishes for my meal, including roll “Pho” with vegetable, deep-fired “Hanoi” vegetable spring roll and vegan pizza. And all of them are very amazing.

As you can see, the prices are very cheap, only 3-6 USD/dish. It would be very regrettable if any travelers miss the opportunity to present in the restaurant.

  • Cheap but delicious
  • Fresh and healthy
  • Warm ambiance

Hotel review about Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel services

I have to say that Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel’s staff is very great! None of the employees show negative attitudes towards their customers, even when they seem to be pretty stressful. During the time I booked online at my home and stayed at the hotel, they gave me useful advice to create my fully enjoyable holidays in Hanoi.

In fact, the hotel provides the service of visa upon arrival with only 20 USD. I didn’t have enough time to apply for the Vietnam entry visa, and hopefully, they helped me do this. What I needed to do was to send some of my personal information. Of course, as soon as I arrived in Noi Bai airport, I gained my visa from a Vietnamese governmental agencies.

Besides, I also registered a daily tour around Hanoi and some nearby provinces with the price of 132 USD. When my holidays were ended, I was carried by the hotel’s car again to Noi Bai airport. Similarly with the time I had been picked up, I had to pay 25 USD for drop-off.

Briefly, if I travel to Hanoi in the next time, I will still choose Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel due to its top-quality services and accommodation. All it supplies you are shown up in my hotel review about Noble and Swan Boutique Hotel. There is nothing to let you down.

Hotel review about Noble Boutique Hotel – The holiday of a lifetime waiting for you

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Before traveling to Hanoi in October, I received my cousin’s advice that I should choose Noble Boutique Hotel for accommodation. In fact, when attending there, all my concerns about the hotel went away since it gave me an exciting moment that has stuck in my mind until now. You can see this clearly in my hotel review about Noble Boutique Hotel below.

Interestingly, thanks to the hotel’s online booking system, I could book 3 nights at Noble Boutique Hotel for my 4-day trip in Hanoi as well as register a service of pick-up at Noi Bai airport while I still stayed at home. That was why after I presented in the lounge of the airport, a hotel’s vehicle was waiting for me. Following the guidance of an employee, I sat in the 7-seated car very luxurious and in good condition, and then I moved to the inner city.

Hotel review about Noble Boutique Hotel location

It took me about 40 minutes to arrive in this hotel. Actually, its address is No.98 Hang Gai Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, in the center of the Old Quarter. And from what I saw at midday and local people talked to me, Hang Gai Street is one of the most active and bustling roads in the Old Quarter. Consequently, as soon as any guests come out of the car, several colorful shops, food streets, many hordes of tourists and hundreds of different commodities are in their vision. Moreover, the driver let me know that the hotel is very close to a lot of Hanoi’s attractions such as Hoan Kiem Lake, Dong Xuan Market or Hanoi Opera House. What I needed to do was to spend a few minutes on walking there. Apparently, this advantage helped me save up my time.

  • Convenient to travel on foot
  • Near attractive spots
  • Dynamic

Hotel review about Noble Boutique Hotel outside

A piece of information I obtained is that the 11-story hotel was built in 2013 and finished one year later. Due to its new establishment, the exterior surface is very impressive and modern. I could say that it has got European architectural features on the basis of white colonnades, stairs, golden words, windows and balcony outlines. Personally, the hotel is somehow like a lavish villa that, however, was turned to a high building. Its owner, I think, could be a creative person since he or she can make his or her property the most outstanding one in Hang Gai Street.

  • Easy to recognize
  • Prominent
  • Western style

Hotel review about Noble Boutique Hotel space

Lobby

The lobby is in the second floor. Going through an automatic glass door, I entered a warm spacious space with lenient light. To deserve a luxurious hotel, Noble Boutique Hotel decorates itself with lots of grand ornaments and furniture, such as sofas, vases with fresh flowers, polished tiles and sparkling chandeliers. Especially, apart from a long reception table on the left, there is also a small one beside, where guests can get more information about some services of the hotel. I suppose such appliances are very exorbitant due to delicate lines on them. Some Vietnamese lacquered paintings hung on the walls appear in my vision too, leading the hotel to be quite different from European accommodation I stayed.

  • Vietnamese decoration
  • Impressive
  • Warm and cozy

Room

Because I traveled to Vietnam alone, I had just chosen Deluxe Room, the smallest guestroom in the hotel. Fortunately, I booked the room in advance, and therefore, attained a huge discount. During my stay, I merely paid 63.25 USD/night, or 189.75 USD in total, very reasonable. Checking in and getting the key of Room 402, I moved to a large elevator near the reception table. Noticeable, this elevator is so huge that it can accommodate up to 6 people at the same time.

When attending my room, the first aspect I paid attention to was the wall color. The hotel still uses the same one – white – in the lobby to paint my room, creating a comfortable ambiance for me. Besides, the wooden floor could provide me the warmth even in the case that I didn’t wear my stocks. Then, my eyes focused on the beddings. Similar with what I had heard from my cousin, all of them are handmade, and in particular, attached with a gracious aromatic odors. That is the reason why I was able to slept immediately just as I lied down in the bed.

Of course, there is no lack of useful furniture, from a large cabinet, a smart TV, drawers, tables, chairs, and safety box. In the refrigerator in the corner, I found some beverages to blow my thirst way. Fruits, snacks are also available, and if I needed more, I could look at the menu near the TV and order something. On the wall are a few extraordinary lacquered pictures which I wanted to bring to my house.

What’s more in my hotel review about Noble Boutique Hotel?

It is a bit regrettable that my room doesn’t acquire city view, given a fact that it only has indoor view. Perhaps in the next time, I will choose Executive Room to get a better view of Hanoi. Although the area of my room is only 25 square meters, but a private bathroom is supplied. Throwing away my negative thought, I checked it to open my mind.

“It’s so unbelievable!” – I exclaimed.

The bathroom, I assume, could be identical with the one in 5-star hotels because it is very luxurious and clean. A washbasin and a toilet bowl could achieve the highest standard, meanwhile, toiletries, towels and other tools are for free. Such accommodation then contributed to my holiday of a lifetime.

  • Indescribably excellent
  • Full necessary equipment
  • Handmade beddings

Hotel review about Noble Boutique Hotel facilities

There are two primary facilities in Noble Boutique Hotel, including The Sandwich Shop and Thuy Ky Shop. All of them are located in the first floor, under the lobby. When I went out of my room to travel there, I saw a special place for foot massage not far away from the elevator. Of course, I didn’t miss a chance to have a knack for it.

The Sandwich Shop

20 minutes later, I presented in The Sandwich Shop. In fact, this eatery is in the back, while Thuy Ky Shop, which can be seen at the entrance, is in the front. My impression about the small shop is described by two words: “Elegant” and “Convenient”. Firstly, the hotel adorn this place with numerous sumptuous appliances and distinctive drawings, apart from shiny steel frames in the center of the restaurant. Spoons, forks, plates and napkins are also placed on black tables.

Secondly, the shop specializes in European fast food, which I could see in the menu. There are 4 main dishes, namely sandwich, baguette, pizza and crepe, and pasta. All prices are around 5 – 6 USD, so cheap that even ordinary Vietnamese could be affordable. Every guest coming to the shop would either stay there, or take their food away. However, I favored sitting in the shop to feel a peculiar atmosphere.

Thuy Ky Shop

For more hotel review about Noble Boutique Hotel, after filling my stomach, I went to Thuy Ky Shop, the place well-known for hand embroidery clothes. From an employee’s brief introduction, I knew that all bedding of the hotel comes from the shop. Actually, besides bed sheets, pillows, the shop sells table clothes, handkerchiefs and other textile products made of prime fabric cotton. Due to being 100% handmade, they gain distinctive softness and exceptional smoothness.

In order to let customers have a good view, most of the shop’s products are displayed in a few cupboards, and attached with notable price signs. Indeed, their prices are from nearly 47 USD to over 210 USD, not really expensive. Before leaving the hotel, I purchased a table cloth as a gift to thank my cousin.

Admittedly, some decorative objects attracted to me at that time, for example, the lights system above my head, or a statue of the God of Money. A screen showing the images captured by security cameras is hung nearby the cashier count, enhancing the safety for the hotel.

  • Diverse products
  • Unique
  • Advantageous for guests

How about other services?

One of Noble Boutique Hotel’s aspects I enjoyed most is the staff. All employees always help their customers proactively, such as carrying my luggage and answer my questions. A smile is often on their face, especially when they explained the services for me.

What made me a bit surprised is that the hotel holds some tours for their guests. The tours consist of Daily tours, Ha Long Bay and Sa Pa Town. Owing to my limited holiday, I only registered Daily tours to travel around Hanoi within a day. Because of accompanying with 6 people, I merely paid 47 USD for this short journey. If I have more time, I will give you a review about this memory.

Additionally, as I mentioned, the hotel operates the services of pick-up and drop-off at Noi Bai airport as well as visa upon arrival. On the last day in Hanoi, I was carried by the luxurious car and paid 25 USD again, finishing my wonderful vacation.

Anyway, if you still doubt about this accommodation after reading an article about it, my hotel review about Noble Boutique Hotel would grant more precise information. At least, I recommend that you should stay here once to feel what I experienced.

The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa – Review: Unbelievable impressive place for staying

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I had a wonderful stay in The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa during my holiday in Vietnam in September this year, and that’s why I will choose this hotel again for my next travel. If you read some information about it and doubt its quality, just throw your concerns away with The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa – Review below.

In fact, before the trip to Vietnam, my friends in a backpacker’s club suggested me to live there. Believing in them, upon arrival in Hanoi, I took a taxi to go to the Old Quarter, and then walked for some minutes to present in the hotel. At the first sight, I had to exclaim that: “It’s so impressive!” Probably, that is an experience you would suffer from.

The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa – Review about location

The address of the hotel is No.20-22 Chan Cam Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. Excitingly, it is located in the center of the Old Quarter. During the time I stayed there, at night, it took me few minutes to travel around dynamic street foods or open air markets to buy some souvenirs for my loved ones. However, this site is very silent at midday, and therefore, I was able to enjoy tranquility and peace. That is not to mention a truth that I only needed a 3-minute walk to arrive at Hoan Kiem Lake, which local people call “The heart of Hanoi”. Due to this convenience, I saved a great deal of time to arrange my itinerary again so that I could visit more attractions in Vietnam.

  • Close to attractive places
  • Bustling at night
  • Tranquil at midday

The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa – Review about exterior surface

In fact, The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa is one of the highest buildings in Chan Cam Street. That is the reason why I recognized it within a few minutes, although at that time, I still stood far away from the hotel. When being in front of it, with Western-style architecture and a golden entrance, to some extent, I thought that the hotel could be a luxurious royal mansions rather than an ordinary hotel. I asked a young employee and then realized that the hotel has 11 stories in total, enabling it to have more spaces for guestrooms.

  • Outstanding
  • Royal outside
  • Spacious

The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa – Review about space

Lobby

What I felt just as I entered the lobby of this hotel was the warmth. That effect may come from lenient light above my head, some Vietnamese paintings on the walls, and colorful tiles on the floor. I could also see several grand appliances, from sofas, lamps, to an expensive piano lying beside the entrance. If I had been able to play it, I would have performed a favorite song to check it once.

The staff is very hospitable and friendly. From securities and receptionists, they always have a smile on their face and are willing to help their customers. Especially, there is an unforgettable aromatic odor from air conditioners that I had never smelt before. It still floated in the air until I went up to some floors. Another unexpected object is that the elevator of the hotel has a golden layer. It looks as if it is really made from gold.

  • Warm and cozy
  • Lavish
  • Odorous

Room

Because I planned to stay in Hanoi for 3 days, I only booked 2 nights at the hotel. After being consulted by the staff, I chose Executive Window Room in the 6th floor. The total amount of money I had to pay was only 136.4 USD, or 68.2 USD/night. Getting the key of Room 602, I attended my room a few minutes later. One point I noticed is that the walls in all floors are painted with white color, making me feel more restful. Perhaps the hotel favors such a simple but elegant hue to turn the hotel to a true castle.

Passing a wooden door, I could see a lot of sumptuous appliances that I thought they should be placed in 5-star hotels. Firstly, after I checked beddings, it is fascinating that all of them are handmade. That is why at night, I slept very smoothly and comfortably. Moreover, they give off a natural odor, a bit different from what I smelt at the lobby. It seems that the hotel doesn’t use another perfume. Next, I paid attention to other wooden furniture, from a large cabinet with some clothes inside, drawers, to tables and chairs. They are all produced from the same material as the door, very polished and excellent.

What’s more?

More wondrously, although the room merely has the area of 28 square meters, very suitable to an individual traveler like me, it consists of a private bathroom. A shower, a toilet bowl and a washbasin appear in the guest’s vision immediately from the entrance. They are very clean and, of course, so lavish with intriguing decoration. Also, hot and cold water, towels, and toiletries are provided fully.

In addition, there are some snacks and Vietnamese fruits nearby a smart TV to let me fill my stomach temporarily. If I requested something more, I could view the list on a menu placed on a small drawer and then contact the staff. A safety box, an air conditioner and a refrigerator are additionally appointed, apart from some beverages, such as soft drinks, beers for free.

The floor is wooden too, enhancing the warmth inside my room. But I liked the curtain most, because it turned my view towards outside to be a bit mystical. It has two layers with separate colors: white and orange. Opening the window, I could saw Chan Cam Street and other bustling roads from above. Suddenly, the wind from somewhere blew into my room, and it appeared to massage my face slowly. What a miraculous feeling!

 

  • Comfortable and luxurious
  • Handmade beddings
  • City view

The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa – Review about restaurant and spa

There are two major services in The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa, namely Hanoi Jade Restaurant & Patisserie, and Swan Spa and Treatments. Indeed, I didn’t have any desire to beautify myself, so I only had some meals at the former. However, if I have a chance later, I will accompany with my friends to experience the latter, given a fact that it is very famous for a unique recipe of treatments.

The restaurant is in the first floor of the hotel, not difficult to find. Like the room I stayed, it is adorned with impressing ornaments, for example, black tables, chairs, ceramic vases and specifically, several pictures of a dragon fly similar with the paintings I saw in the hotel. And from what I had read an article about the restaurant before, it means that the hotel wants to bring luck to every guest, since in the Vietnamese belief, the dragon fly is the icon of luck and freedom.

What does the restaurant serve you?

“As you mightn’t know, Hanoi Jade Restaurant & Patisserie is a standardized Vietnamese restaurant. Consequently, you can enjoy both Vietnamese and European food here.” – A female employee said to me when I asked some questions about this place.

Looking for a seat and scanning the menu, actually, I figured out what she said was true. There is really a wide range of dishes to choose, such as Vietnamese kebab rice noodles, European salad. Then, I decided to select deep-fried spring rolls and salad for my dinner.

“Wow, it’s so great!” – I screamed.

The restaurant, though, specializes in cakes more. Abundant kinds of cakes are displayed near the kitchen, while others are exhibited in a separate glass board to only sell to passers-by. Of course, I didn’t miss this opportunity to enjoy. Surprised by an exclusive taste in my mouth, when leaving the hotel, I didn’t forget to buy some pieces for my friends.

  • Diverse and impressing
  • Nutritious and tasty meals
  • Convenient

The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa – Review about other services

Having a discussion with the employees, I got to know that the hotel also holds certain tours for travelers who don’t have enough time to arrange their single travel. Three main tours are offered, including Daily tours, Ha Long Bay and Sa Pa Town. However, I preferred discovering everything in Hanoi alone, and therefore, I didn’t use this service. In my next visit, perhaps I will have a go at it.

Additional thing is the service of pick-up and drop-off at Noi Bai airport. Admittedly, unlike the time I had arrived in Hanoi, when I said goodbye to the city, I registered a car of the hotel to drop me off at the airport. I only paid 25 USD for it. This service is very useful, because any customer shouldn’t worry about the complexity of transport systems in Hanoi these days. The vehicle carrying me is a grand 7-seater car in good condition, leading my trip to become wholly enjoyable.

By the way, that is all I want to share about The Noble Swan Hotel & Spa – Review. To determine whether my review is true or not, just go there, and then you will find out that it’s real.

Best swimming pool in Hanoi for local non-residents and foreign travelers

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Affected by tropical weather, people living in Hanoi have to deal with a hot summer every year. Although they can resist it, they still want to escape from the heat as much as possible. Meanwhile, this could be a more serious problem for Western travelers. Because they are not used to the extreme heat like the locals. Plus the unavailability of beaches in the city, the most feasible solution for all of them is to soak themselves in a swimming pool in Hanoi.

In fact, if you find that counting the number of pools around the capital of Vietnam these days interesting, you have to spend all your life on completing this. However, it doesn’t mean that every pool is high-quality. In contrast, certain pools are unexpectedly terrifying. That’s why the best swimming pool in Hanoi is what you need to prioritize once you attend the metropolis in summer.

Frequently, 5-star hotels in the city provide you with a clean pool to swim when you are their guest. But in the case you are a local traveler, or just foreign non-resident, they disallow you to utilize this facility. Fortunately, there are some selections that could fulfil your desire. I believe that some of them may surprise you.

NATURAL POOL

I have to say that natural pools are available in Hanoi nowadays. The reason for this is that Hanoi location is beside Red River, a large river flowing from mountainous zone, and the city also consists of several lakes. But I don’t appreciate them since the development of this metropolis leads to water pollution there. That’s why you are prone to be infected by some illnesses hidden in these special pools. Anyway, if you still favor to be engulfed in nature to calm down yourself, two admirable choices for you are:

West Lake

Estimated as the largest lake in the proximity of Red River, West Lake is believed as the best swimming pool in Hanoi for nature lovers. Just go along some streets around the lake, and you can jump into it from any stop. With a tranquil environment and cool winds the lake gives to everyone, it is usually visited by the locals to stay away from the heat. Of course, no ticket and no securities. So make sure that your belongings are protected carefully. Sometimes, the water inside the lake is not really clean, and rubbish is seeable too.

Red River

Another destination is Red River. Owning to the dikes along two banks of the river, the most suitable place to reach it is the small oasis under Long Bien Bridge. There are the stairs to go down from the bridge, but only for pedestrians. Therefore, firstly, leave all your unnecessary luggage at your rent accommodation. Though the water is not polluted badly because of strong flow, the alluvial naturally stains the river water. Do not hope its purity so much because you might be disappointed then.

ARTIFICIAL POOL

By the way, it would be better if you are interested in artificial pools more. Fascinatingly they can supplies you with a good view of stunning landscape. Let’s start with:

1. Sense Aqua & Spa

Address: No.20 Thuy Khue Street, Tay Ho District

This one currently belongs to Center of Women and Development Hotel (CWD Hotel). Located in the 4th floor, it shows you an unbelievably spacious indoor pool with the length of 33m, and the width of 17m. Aside from this, the depth of the pool is from 1.3m to 2m, very well-suited to both children and adults. What’s more? It also grants you a direct view of West Lake, allowing you to seek peace in mind after you swim for a while. The average prices for adult travelers are 8 USD/day and 140 USD/month.

2. Pullman Hanoi Hotel

Address: 40 Cat Linh Street, Hoan Kiem District

Interestingly, Pullman Hanoi Hotel is one of certain 5-star hotels that serve any traveler with the best swimming pool in Hanoi. By floating on the water surface, you are able to forget everything, and then enjoy the silence and freshness the garden surrounding the outdoor pool brings to you. Compared with other pools, this one is a bit smaller. For dimension, the depth is merely from 0.9m to 1.6m, but the shape forming a flower hidden inside water could impress you. There are first-class private bathrooms for every type of swimmers as well, while the prices are around 12 USD/day and 150 USD/month.

3. Bora Bora Four Seasons Pool

Address: No. 50 Nguyen Chi Thanh Street, Dong Da District

The next destination could be a pool with a remarkable name – Bora Bora Four Seasons Pool. The pool is wholly inside the second floor of Bao Son International Hotel. As a result, it displays a large space for non-residents to plunge themselves in water sports. To deserve its name, the hotel equips the pool with a high-tech heating system to guarantee that water lovers, from the young to the elderly, could stay in the pool even in winter. The only problem would be transportation since in rush hours, the street heading to the hotel is frequently overcrowded.

4. Thang Loi Hotel

Address: No.200 Yen Phu Street, Tay Ho District

Another pool you could visit at any time is run by Thang Loi Hotel. Like CWD Hotel, this location offers you with a view of West Lake. But instead of seeing the lake through windows, you are likely to rejoice cool winds from this water area directly. A few professional swimmers may not appreciate the pool there because it is not sizable (25m x 12.5m), but the more noticeable issue is the depth of over 2m. That’s why it is not a safe place for children. However, the price for a ticket is very reasonable, about 2.4 USD/person.

5. Asean Hotel

Address: No.8 Chua Boc Street, Dong Da District

One more selection dedicated to backpackers in the inner city is Asean Hotel. Amazingly, what you will pay for entry into the outdoor pool of the hotel is approximately 3.1 USD/person. Open from 5.30am to 9.00pm, the light system is operational fully to contribute to a wonderful night. Additionally, a bundle of drinks and cocktails are serviceable to let you gratify your thirsty too. Apart from a pool for adults, the hotel operates a distinctive one for the young with the depth of merely 0.7m. Consequently, you usually see a lot of parents teaching their children the way to swim there.

6. Army Hotel

Address: No.33C Pham Ngu Lao Street, Hoan Kiem District,

In the case you rent room is sited in the Old Quarter or the French Quarter, Army Hotel is where you can find a suitable swimming pool in Hanoi within a short journey time. What makes the hotel attract more swimmers is a large car park, beside restaurant and bar. With the length of 20m, the width of 10.5m, and the depth from 1m to 2.4m, fathers and mothers could accompany with their sons and daughters to keep themselves away from the heat. Notably, the pool consists of salty water to make you feel that you would live in a real beach.

To conclude, by attending the best swimming pool in Hanoi, any tourist will never worry about how to cope with high temperatures in the city in summer. More intriguingly, that could be a new experience to let you to explore another feature of the capital at the moment.