Prince II Hotel Hanoi: Your Luxurious Vietnamese Escape Awaits!
Prince II Hotel Hanoi: My Love-Hate Relationship with Luxury (and Why You Should Still Go)
Okay, so I just got back from Hanoi. And let me tell you, my feet haven't stopped aching, my stomach is still figuring out Vietnamese coffee quantities, and my brain? Well, it's still replaying the whole Prince II Hotel experience. Buckle up, because this ain't your typical glossy travel review. This is the real deal, warts and all.
The Hype (and Where It Mostly Delivers):
First off, the name – Prince II Hotel Hanoi: Your Luxurious Vietnamese Escape Awaits! – Yeah, big words. Does it live up? Mostly. The luxury is undeniable. The lobby is a dizzying swirl of polished marble, the staff are impeccably polite (almost too polite sometimes, it's a bit unnerving!), and the rooms… oh, the rooms.
Let's just say I’m not usually one for a bathtub phone, but it's there. And the bathrobes? Fluffy heaven. And the complimentary tea? Crucial for battling jet lag. My room had an extra-long bed – thank you, sweet baby Buddha – and even a reading light, which I actually used! Because, you know, luxury.
**(Okay, let's get real for a sec… I’m a workaholic. Having a proper *laptop workspace* was, honestly, a lifesaver. Wi-Fi was also free and worked mostly very well. The in-room Internet access – wireless was a solid 4.5 out of 5. Internet access – LAN? Also available, for my super secure stuff. You know, the usual.)**
The Accessibility Angle:
Now, I’m not a wheelchair user, but I did notice the facilities for disabled guests. The elevator was clearly marked and easily accessible, and it seemed thoughtfully planned. I saw ramps and well-designed doorways everywhere. The hotel also had a front desk [24-hour], which is essential. I didn’t experience any accessibility issues, and from what I saw, they've put genuine effort into making the hotel welcoming to everyone. The facilities for disabled guests, the elevator, and the front desk [24-hour] all contribute to its accessibility.
The Comforts (and the Little Annoyances):
Let’s talk about the nitty-gritty, shall we? The air conditioning in my room? Top-notch. Crucial in the Hanoi humidity. The blackout curtains? Essential for sleeping off those late-night pho feasts. And the daily housekeeping? Amazing. I left my room looking like a hurricane had hit it, came back to spotless perfection. They even refreshed the free bottled water every day. Little things, but they matter.
However… and there’s always a “however,” isn’t there? The soundproofing wasn’t perfect. Sometimes, I swear I could hear the construction site (that seems to be Hanoi's constant soundtrack) or the hallway chatter. The Internet access – wireless was great when it worked, but I did have a few dropouts. And sometimes, the incredibly polite staff felt a little… robotic? But hey, I'd rather have polite and efficient than rude!
Food, Glorious (and Sometimes Perplexing) Food:
Okay, food. This is where things get really interesting. The breakfast [buffet] was… a thing. A glorious, slightly overwhelming, thing. There was Asian breakfast, Western breakfast…you name it. There was coffee/tea in restaurant, and a coffee shop. I inhaled mountains of fresh fruit, questionable pastries (the French influence in Vietnam is strong!), and enough Vietnamese coffee to power a small city (this is totally a recommendation! Vietnamese coffee is DELICIOUS).
The restaurants themselves were lovely. I enjoyed the Asian cuisine in restaurant, but honestly, I was craving the street food the entire time. There's a salad in restaurant and soup in restaurant, which is cool but more to my speed is the a la carte in restaurant, and the buffet in restaurant
The poolside bar was a lifesaver after a day of frenzied sightseeing. They had a decent Happy hour. I did try one of the desserts in restaurant, and it was divine. The bottle of water was, well, water. Essential, especially poolside. I didn't get to experience any Vegetarian restaurant options, as I'm a meat-eater. Room service [24-hour]? Also available, and a godsend when jet lag hit at 3 AM. Snack bar also existed.
Relaxation… Or the Lack Thereof (My Fault, Really):
This is where I royally screwed up. The Prince II Hotel has a spa, a sauna, a steamroom, a massage service… and I barely utilized any of it! I did venture tentatively into the swimming pool [outdoor] (amazing view!), but that was about it. I was too busy running around Hanoi like a caffeinated chicken.
They also have a Fitness center and a Gym/fitness, and there was a Pool with view. They offer treatments like a Body scrub, and Body wrap, and even a Foot bath. I just… didn't. Lesson learned: next time, spend more time in the spa, ya dummy!
Safety and Cleanliness – A Sigh of Relief:
Okay, this is important, particularly after the recent… world events. The Prince II takes safety seriously. They have CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside property. The staff are clearly trained in safety protocol. They use Anti-viral cleaning products, had Hand sanitizer everywhere, and used a system of Daily disinfection in common areas. There was also a Doctor/nurse on call and a First aid kit. I felt supremely safe. Honestly, the effort they've made in this department is reassuring. Their Hygiene certification, alongside having Sterilizing equipment, and providing Individual-wrapped food options. I noticed they even had Safe dining setup.
The Extras (and the Things I Didn't Need):
- Concierge: Super helpful. They arranged airport transfers and gave great restaurant recommendations.
- Luggage storage: Essential. Hanoi can be a bit rough on the suitcases.
- Dry cleaning and Laundry service: Didn’t use it, but good to know it’s there.
- Currency exchange: Convenient, but I got a better rate elsewhere.
- Cash withdrawal: Also convenient.
- Gift/souvenir shop: Cute, but I found better deals in the Old Quarter.
- Air conditioning in public area: A must in Hanoi's heat.
- Meeting/banquet facilities and Business facilities: Yep, they've got them. Didn't need them, thankfully.
The Quirks (and the Things I Can't Explain):
So, here’s where it gets weird. There was a Shrine in the hotel. I’m guessing this is good for Feng Shui? I didn’t know. Also, there’s a Smoking area if you need it. Also, the Babysitting service wasn't useful for me, but good to know.
Getting Around:
- Airport transfer: Smooth and easy.
- Car park [free of charge] and Car park [on-site]: Always appreciated. The offer Bicycle parking.
- Taxi service: Readily available.
The Verdict (and Who Should Book):
Look, the Prince II Hotel isn't perfect. But it's damn close. It's a luxurious haven in a bustling city. It's comfortable, clean, safe, and the staff are generally excellent. It’s ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway, solo travellers wanting a touch of pampering, and business travellers who appreciate the convenience. Families are welcome, too, with their Family/child friendly policies.
But here's the real kicker:
I’m already thinking about going back.
STOP SCROLLING! Book Your Hanoi Escape NOW!
Tired of the same old travel routine? Crave a taste of luxury, a hint of adventure, and memories that'll last a lifetime?
Prince II Hotel Hanoi is calling your name!
Here's what awaits:
- Unforgettable Luxury: Indulge in plush rooms, impeccable service, and a world of comfort you deserve. Think fluffy bathrobes, extra-long beds, and the perfect cup of tea to start your day.
- Unbeatable Location: Explore the vibrant heart of Hanoi with ease. From the historic Old Quarter to the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, you're just steps away from the city's most iconic landmarks.
- Ultimate Relaxation: Unwind in our stunning spa, take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool, and savor delicious cuisine at our on-site restaurants (don't miss the Vietnamese coffee!). Or
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this ain't your grandma's itinerary. This is my itinerary. And trust me, it’s probably going to be a disaster, but a glorious, delicious, pho-fueled disaster in Hanoi. Brace yourselves.
Prince II Hotel, Hanoi - A Chaotic Pilgrimage of Discovery (and Probably Regret)
(Subject to Change (Read: Definitely Going to Change))
Day 1: Arrival & Existential Dread (Hanoi Edition)
- Morning (or whenever I manage to peel myself out of that budget airline torture chamber): Land at Noi Bai International Airport. Okay, deep breaths. Immigration… currency exchange… finding the right line… This is where the first meltdown usually occurs. I envision myself already staring at a hawker, completely incapable of bargaining, and handing over my wallet like a chump. But hey, at least I’ll get some water.
- Transportation: Taxi, I'm guessing. Praying it's not a scam. Praying I can remember "Prince II Hotel" in Vietnamese. Praying the driver understands anything I say.
- The Hotel: Check-in & Brief Panic: Prince II Hotel. Supposedly, it’s lovely. I booked it based on photos and the promise of air conditioning. My existential dread level skyrockets as I wait in the lobby, probably sweating profusely and wondering if I should have just stayed home and organized my sock drawer. The receptionist is probably incredibly polite, but I'll be too busy internally screaming to notice.
- Afternoon: Pho-king Fantastic (Or Terrible, We’ll See). The primary goal is to inhale a steaming bowl of pho. I've spent weeks dreaming of this. I've researched a specific place near the hotel, which I bet is actually a tourist trap but… oh well. Food is life. I'll probably spill it all down myself.
- Quirky Observation: The sheer volume of motorbikes is already terrifying and mesmerizing. It's like a two-wheeled, buzzing, horn-honking river. I'm pretty sure I'm going to be run over at least ten times today.
- Evening: Wandering & Unintentional Culture: Tonight, I’m going to attempt a wander around the Old Quarter. This is where I'll probably get hopelessly lost within five minutes.
- I'm going to look for one of these famous "egg coffee". I am not sure if it is good or not I'm going to find out.
- I might buy a t-shirt and promptly regret it. Fashion is not my strong suit.
- Emotional Reaction: I'm already overwhelmed, but also…exhilarated. This city is alive. I am going to be lost, that's a given.
- Night: Bed. Or… maybe a desperate search for a 24-hour convenience store for a pack of Oreos and a bottle of water. Sleep is important.
Day 2: Halong Bay's Embrace (Or Seasickness's Grip)
- Morning: Early start for Halong Bay. They said it was magical. They also said I’d need to wake up before noon. Pray for me. I'm not a morning person. Especially not a morning person with a stomach prepped for a boat.
- Transportation: "Luxury" cruise to Halong Bay. I have images of a tiny, cramped bus. I pray I end up on a bus for an hour or two not on a boat.
- Daytime: Halong Bay! I imagine stunning limestone karsts, turquoise water, and a general sense of awe. I hope I don’t spend the entire time clutching the railing and green around the gills.
- Quirky Observation: How many other people are also secretly terrified of heights AND boats? And are those birds, or just really aggressive seagulls?
- Specific Focus: Kayaking. They promised kayaking. I want to feel the water. I want to take some pictures. I probably fell over and get wet, but that's what makes it real.
- Emotional Reaction: If I don't get seasick, this will be the best day of my life. If I do get seasick, well, at least I'll have a story.
- Evening: Back to Prince II. Shower. Eat something… anything. Collapse. Probably with a triumphant Instagram post of my kayaking skills, even if it's just me splashing around and looking terrified.
Day 3: More Pho & The Art of Getting Lost (Again)
- Morning: Sleep. Glorious, uninterrupted sleep. (Unless the construction next door wakes me up.)
- Mid-Morning: More Pho! This needs to happen. I'm going to try a different place to see if it is better than the other.
- Afternoon: Explore. Hanoi is my city. I'm going to go around the lake. There is a temple. I'll probably accidentally wander into an art gallery.
- Quirky Observation: The constant honking is growing on me. Maybe. Or maybe I’m just going deaf.
- Night: The "Water Puppet Theatre" is a must-see. Even if it's cheesy. Even if I don't understand a word. Because… why not? Then, a quiet beer. Or more beer. Depending on how the puppet show goes.
- Emotional reaction: I might have found my favorite city already, I'm starting to like the buzz.
Day 4: Departure - A bittersweet farewell (And a search for souvenir chopsticks)
- Morning: One last pho. One last attempt to bargain with the street vendors. One last moment of abject panic that I'm going to miss my flight.
- Quirky Observation: I am a terrible shopper. I'm going to spend 2 hours looking for souvenir chopsticks.
- Afternoon: Trip to the airport.
- Emotional Reaction: I can't help but be in love with Hanoi. If I survive this vacation, I'm sure I'll come back!
Important Considerations:
- Food: Eat everything (within reason). Try everything. Don't be afraid of the mystery meat. Or maybe do. I'm not your mother.
- Bargaining: Attempt it. Fail spectacularly. Laugh about it.
- Transportation: Learn a few basic hand gestures. You'll need them. Especially the "no."
- Imperfections: Embrace them. Getting lost is part of the adventure. Spilling pho is inevitable. Embarrassing yourself is mandatory.
- Most importantly: Have fun! Get a little messy. Come home with a few stories (and hopefully, not too many mosquito bites).
This is just a guideline, people. My actual experience is bound to diverge wildly from this carefully (read: haphazardly) crafted plan. Wish me luck, and maybe send snacks. I'm going to need them.
Unbelievable MILA Hotel Taichung: Your Dream Taiwan Getaway Awaits!
Prince II Hotel Hanoi: Your Luxurious Vietnamese Escape - Seriously, Is It Worth It? (Probably ... mostly)
Okay, Spill the Beans: Is the Prince II Really THAT Fancy?
Alright, let's be real. "Fancy" is a subjective beast, isn't it? Coming from a hostel in Sapa, yeah, the Prince II felt like I'd won the lottery (which I hadn't, sadly). Marble floors! Actual air conditioning that WORKS! A rooftop pool? I mean, seriously. It *is* pretty damn luxurious, especially by Vietnamese standards. Think plush, modern, and a definite step up from your average budget hotel. But...and there's always a but, isn't there? It's not the Four Seasons. Don't expect pure, unadulterated, gilded-cage perfection. There might be a tiny stain on the (otherwise immaculate) bedspread. And sometimes… *sometimes* the elevator acts up. It's Vietnam, things aren't always *perfectly* polished, and that's part of the charm, right? Right?! *nervous laughter*
The Rooms: Cozy Cave or Cramped Closet?
Okay, the rooms. This is where it gets interesting. I booked a "Deluxe Double," which in other hotels means "barely big enough to swing a cat." But at the Prince II...well, it was actually *decently* sized! Enough room to shove your suitcase (and all your questionable souvenirs) somewhere discreetly. The bed was ridiculously comfortable. Seriously, I almost missed my flight because I couldn't drag myself out of it. The bathroom, though? Sometimes, the water pressure was a *little* iffy. One morning I swear I felt like I was taking a shower in a light drizzle. But hey, you're in Hanoi! You can't expect perfection, and besides, those tiny little complimentary shampoos and conditioners kept me going. *Addicted. Send help.*
Location, Location, Location! Is it Actually Convenient?
Alright, the location. This is a BIG win. The Prince II is smack-dab in the middle of the Old Quarter. Meaning… chaos. Beautiful, glorious, honking-motorbike-filled chaos. It's brilliant. Literally steps from street food heaven (pho, bun cha, ALL THE THINGS!), the Hoan Kiem Lake, and all the touristy bits you *think* you should see (like the water puppet show – which is... an experience). I personally loved the convenience of just stumbling out of the hotel and immediately being engulfed in the vibrant energy of Hanoi. But… if you crave absolute silence and serenity, this ain’t the place for you. You *will* hear the street vendors hawking their wares at 5 AM. You *will* become intimately familiar with the sound of motorbikes. Embrace it, I say! It's part of the fun.
That Rooftop Pool: Insta-Worthy or a Waste of Time?
The pool...THE POOL. Oh, the rooftop pool. Look, it's a rooftop pool in Hanoi! That gets major points right off the bat. The views are pretty spectacular. You can chill, sip a ridiculously overpriced cocktail (that's hotel prices for ya), and pretend you're a glamorous jet-setter. Buuut… it's not Olympic-sized. It’s quite small really. There were times when it was a little crowded. And sometimes the water *might* be a tad chilly (depending on the time of year, of course). But still—it's a pool! And a pretty damn good one, at that. Definitely a good way to escape the Hanoi heat and the general madness of the streets. Just don’t expect to do any serious laps, unless you are particularly acrobatic.
Breakfast Buffet: Feast or Famine? And More Importantly, Pho?
The breakfast buffet... Ah, the holy grail of hotel stays. Okay, listen up. The Prince II's breakfast is… *good*. Not life-altering, but certainly solid. They do have pho! Thank GOD. Because, let's face it, a trip to Vietnam without copious amounts of pho is just a sad, sad thing. Beyond that, there’s the usual offering of eggs (cooked ANY WAY you like them), bread, pastries, some fruit, cereals. It's enough to fuel you for a day of exploring the Old Quarter. The coffee is surprisingly decent, too. Listen, I'm not a foodie snob, but I do love my coffee. Plus, it gives you a chance to people-watch and observe the breakfast-related chaos that plays out every morning. That alone is worth the price of admission.
The Staff: Angels or Awkward Interactions?
The staff… they're lovely! Seriously, generally speaking, the staff at the Prince II are incredibly helpful and friendly. They try their best to assist with whatever you need, from booking tours to giving directions (even if you get completely lost anyway). I did have one slightly awkward interaction with the concierge when I asked about where to buy a SIM card. He told me, and then… *silence*. Then he just sort of… *stared*. I had to break the moment asking for a map. But hey, nobody's perfect. And on balance, the staff were great.
Is the Prince II Hotel Hanoi actually Romantic? (Asking for a friend... who may or may not be me.)
Romantic, eh? Well, let's see... It depends on your definition of "romantic." The rooms are well-appointed, the rooftop pool is lovely at sunset… If you're hoping for candlelit dinners and whispered sweet nothings, it could work. If you're after a super romantic, secluded experience, probably not. The Old Quarter is a whirlwind. But holding hands on a motorbiket (which I did NOT do, I'm not *that* romantic!) could be romantic. The atmosphere is more fun than a formal. If you are traveling with your significant other, or even just a friend… the staff WILL leave rose petals and a towel sculpture on your bed. That's a really nice touch.
Is it Worth the Price Tag? The Ultimate Verdict.
Okay, the million-dollar question (or however much it costs these days). Is the Prince II worth it? Honestly, it depends on your budget and what you're looking for. If you're backpacking on a shoestring, probably not. There are plenty of cheaper options in Hanoi. But… if you want a comfortable, well-located hotel with a rooftop pool and a decent breakfast, and you're willing to spend a little extra… then YES. Absolutely. I'd goStay Classy Hotels
