Hanoi Charm Hotel

Occupying a tall, narrow white building, Hanoi Charm Hotel is wedged between two gift shops on a compact lane. Inside, a glass entry gives the tiny reception area lots of light. Velvety button tufted couches and swoop armchairs are upholstered in beige, and dark wood trim provides a rich contrast for white walls and beige tiled floors. A wood divider separates the reception area from the dining nook, which is finished with framed pictures on the wall and modern pedant lights.  But decor aside, this public area isn't really spacious enough for lounging around, though it's a pleasant enough place to take a breather or collect yourself while checking in. Still, that suits guests here just fine, as they tend to spend their time out and about exploring the city from this helpful location. Travelers should note that while the hotel does have an elevator, it only goes up to the fifth floor. 

Location is one of Hanoi Charm Hotel's biggest draws -- particularly for urban explorers that want to dive into the city's attractions. It's situated on a small lane in Hanoi's atmospheric Old Quarter. Though this area is known for being congested and chaotic, the spot where Hanoi Charm Hotel is stays relatively quiet. Most of the shops and food stalls the area is known for are within a 10-minute walk, and the weekend Night Market is just a three-minute walk away. Other nearby sights include scenic Hoan Kiem Lake, the historic Temple of the Jade Mountain, and the Water Puppet Theater, all reachable in about 5 to 7 minutes on foot. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is about a 10-minute drive and Noi Bai International Airport is about a 40-minute drive.

Though they can feel a touch generic, guests rooms are pleasant and contemporary composed of glossy wood floors, dark wooden furnishings, and cream-colored upholstery. Oblong or faceted pendant lights go a long ways to add a dose of style and framed pictures on the walls bring a welcome hit of color. Modern desks provide a small work surface, and huge windows in most rooms also let in lots of natural light making the white-walled spaces appear bigger. Contemporary bathrooms, attractively covered in sand-hued tiles have walk-in showers and vessel sinks.

Amenities are as modern as the decor and include individual AC units, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, minibars, coffee/tea service, laptop safes, slippers, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are well stocked with fluffy white towels, individual toiletries, slippers, and hairdryers; irons and ironing boards are offered on request. Upgraded rooms tack on extra space, like the 376-square-foot Family Room with two king-size beds. Some rooms also have furnished balconies -- the view from the suite's terrace is particularly good -- and connecting rooms are also available. 

Like many smaller, modestly priced hotels in Hanoi, this one has limited extra property features. But what's on offer is appreciated by guests. The breakfast spread gets good reviews and both buffet and a la carte options are included. (Banana pancakes are a favorite.) As of 2017, the restaurant also served lunch and dinner. Staff are helpful, offering laundry service, currency exchange, airport transfers (extra fee), and concierge service like booking tours. Wi-Fi throughout is free.