The vibe
Just stepping into the Hanoi La Siesta Hotel puts even the most tired traveller at ease. The cosy interior reflects the boutique hotel’s down-to-earth approach to Vietnamese hospitality, but there’s also a touch of luxury in the ambience. As far as first impressions go, we were blown away by how friendly and polite the staff were – they often went the extra mile to assist us with our Hanoi plans. Just ask reception for help booking tickets for the famous local water puppet theatre or arranging transport from the hotel to Cat Ba Island on Ha Long Bay.
The rooms
The hotel offers 50 bedrooms, including suite and duplex options for those travelling in larger groups. True to its name, Hanoi La Siesta has beds that make you feel like you’re sleeping on a cloud – the perfect respite after a day’s worth of exploring Hanoi. Were it not for the travel itinerary already laid out, we would have been tempted to not leave the room at all.
Read also: 10 travel tips for your first time in Hanoi
The food & drink
There’s nothing like a good continental buffet breakfast to put you in vacation mode. Hanoi La Siesta’s was delicious, offering a large variety of Asian and Western grub from fluffy pastries, pancakes, meat selections, toast, salads and fruits to Vietnamese Pho and coffee – you haven’t been to Vietnam if you haven’t had the latter two. Of course, it was inevitable: we went for seconds. Later in the day, the hotel’s Red Bean Restaurant opens for à la carte lunch through dinner.
The location
When in Hanoi, embrace the hustle and bustle of the charming city. The hotel is located in Hoan Kiem district, also known as the Old Quarter, which is a major hub for street food (put Vietnamese spring rolls on your checklist) and shopping in Hanoi. Most attractions, including the Hoan Kiem Lake and the puppet theatre, are within walking distance from the hotel. A quick Google search will also show you where the best markets are. If all else fails, remember what we said about Hanoi La Siesta’s friendly concierge.
Don’t miss this
The spa, obviously. At a glance, it’s your typical hotel spa setting, but when you dive into the extensive menu of treatments and massages and experience one or two for yourself, we won’t blame you if you succumb to a little siesta mid-treatment.
The details
La Siesta Hotel. 94 Ma May St., Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Dist., Hanoi, Vietnam. +84 24 3926 3641
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