Phu Thinh Boutique Resort & Spa

In an area full of homestays and tiny, simple boutiques, the Phu Thinh stands out for its spacious grounds and wide range of amenities. Rates are just slightly higher here than they are at the more simple competition, making Phy Thinh a good option for value. Although the main building could use some updates -- especially in the reception area, which has worn couches, terrazzo-style finishes, and cream-colored marble-like pillars -- the rest of the buildings have more appealing decor styles that range between contemporary (with a stylish monochrome palette throughout) and charming, with traditional Vietnamese architecture and dark woods. The highlight at the Phu Thinh, however, is the outdoors. Located behind the main building, the central garden has a freeform pool, a vegetable garden, and spacious, manicured lawns with palm and orange trees, bonsais, and tropical flowers. 

The Phu Thinh may not be the most stylish hotel in the area, but it is a good pick for families seeking an urban resort-style hotel at a low price. It's close enough for guests to walk into town, but those in need of a break from the crowds of the Ancient Town can also find a number of things to do on-site, from learning Vietnamese, to getting a massage, to taking a tai chi class. The atmosphere is lively, but most of the action is around the pool, and the rest of the areas remain peaceful. The hotel, though, is a popular wedding venue (there was a wedding the day we visited and there had been another one the weekend before), which can result in some areas being closed off and music playing into the night. 

The Green Heaven Resort & Spa is a similar option both in terms of price and style. It also has a spa and a pool, and its rooms are generic but clean and well-equipped. The Green Heaven is even closer to the city center. Lantana Boutique Hoi An Hotel is another good option within easy walking distance of the Ancient Town, with more stylish rooms, a fitness center, great food, and a picturesque riverfront setting. Travelers seeking something a little cheaper but with similar amenities may want to consider the Muca Hoi An Boutique Resort, which is farther from the center but offers free shuttle service into town and the beach, and has a quieter, more romantic vibe.

The hotel is located on one of the two main thoroughfares connecting Hoi An’s city center and the beach area to the east. The block is busy with tourists and locals alike, as there are many small restaurants and cafes, and a few tailors in the neighborhood. Although cars and motorbikes are always zipping by, traffic jams are rare. The Ancient Town, known for its charming architecture, many tailors, and great restaurants, is just a 15-minute walk away. The hotel has free loaner bikes for guests, as well as a free shuttle to both the city center and An Bang Beach, which is a popular hangout spot with expats who appreciate the area's hip restaurants and lounges. The stunning Marble Mountains are just about a half-hour drive from the hotel. Danang International Airport can be reached in 45 minutes by car.

The hotel has 60 rooms spread over several buildings set around a spacious garden. Superior and Deluxe Rooms are housed in the main building, and have simple decor with some traditional flavor. We found the combination of terra-cotta floor tiles, dark wood furniture, and beige accents a tad plain, but the ornate wood carvings and vintage photos of Hoi An scenes add some local charm. Suites have more modern decor, with a chic black-and-white color scheme, cute wiry lamps, and wood or gray floors. All rooms and suites are equipped with the same amenities, including air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and minibars stocked with water, beer, soda, and candy. Electric kettles with free tea and coffee are also provided in all rooms. The vast majority of rooms also have small balconies, and all but a few Superior Rooms have views of the gardens. Street-facing Superior Rooms may get some traffic noise. 

Bathrooms also vary between rooms types. Superior and Deluxe Rooms have simple, yet clean, bathrooms with shower/tub combos. Suites have spacious bathrooms with separate deep soaking tubs and rain showers, as well as large windows overlooking the room. Shower gel, shampoo, and soap come in ceramic containers. Hairdryers and extras such as combs and cotton swabs, are also provided.

Phu Thinh has a solid set of features. Tucked away in the gardens, the spa is cute and peaceful. It's housed in a charming traditional Vietnamese pavilion with big wooden windows, a slanted terra-cotta tile roof, and thick wooden pillars, and has a refreshing lime-green color palette. There are five treatment beds separated by curtains, as well as a small salon area with chairs for foot massages and nail services. There is no sauna or steam bath, though. The freeform pool is a decent size and has a small wooden deck set with a few white loungers and umbrellas. A small bar serves drinks and snacks by the pool during the day. Although there isn’t a full entertainment program, the hotel does offer a few activities on-site, including free tai chi and Vietnamese language lessons several times per week. Cooking classes are available for a fee. 

Housed in an open pavilion in the gardens, Lily Restaurant is big and airy. A good free breakfast buffet is served there every morning, complete with local soups, noodles and rice dishes, made-to-order eggs, pastries, and cold meats among other breakfast items. Traditional local cuisine along with some European dishes are available for lunch and dinner. 

Other freebies include Wi-Fi, bikes, and shuttle service to town and the beach.