The Earth Villa

Opened in 2011 and owned and run by a local family, the property is packed with charm. Several colorful lanterns and a wooden sign with the name of the hotel in both Vietnamese and English mark the entrance to this tiny boutique. Plants and flowers cover the white picket fence demarcating the property along the street, while a low pale yellow building with a pitched terra-cotta roof peeks out from behind the trees. With their simple style and airy feel, interiors have a homey, laid-back vibe that's immediately inviting. The layout of the property makes it intimate and private, with three small buildings set around a lovely pool and surrounded by beautiful gardens bursting with hundreds of tropical flowers and plants. A small stone path shaded by trees and tall bushes runs through the greenery on the side of the main building to the back of the property, where the two other structures and the pool are. This allows for a quiet, cozy atmosphere that draws plenty of European and Australian couples. 

The Earth Villa’s affordable rates, location, cleanliness, and general charm make it an excellent pick for those seeking a simple, boutique-style hotel away from the crowds in Hoi An. Families may want to check out the hotel’s next-door neighbor, the Hoi An Orchid Garden Villas, which has the same amenities and rates, a similar homey style, and spacious four-person bungalows, some of which have kitchenettes. Travelers wanting to stay closer to the city center without breaking the bank should compare rates at the Vinh Hung Emerald Resort, which offers a wide array of resort-style amenities, including a spa and a large pool overlooking the river. Lantana Boutique Hotel Hoi An is a solid upscale option with reasonable rates and stylish interiors located just across a small bridge from the heart of the Ancient Town. 

The hotel is located on the road leading from the city center to Cua Dai and An Bang beaches. It is busy and sometimes loud during the day, but noise is generally not an issue at night. Though not within easy walking distance of most major attractions, this location is convenient for those seeking to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the Ancient Town. There are a few local, inexpensive restaurants and a handful of tailors within a few minutes of the hotel, but the city center -- located a five-minute drive, 15-minute bike ride, or 20-minute walk away -- offers a wider array of dining and shopping options. Bicycles can be borrowed free of charge at the hotel. An Bang Beach, lined with hip beachfront cafes and restaurants, is 15 minutes away by car. Danang International Airport can be reached in about 45 minutes. 

Rooms at the Earth Villa are divided into two categories, Earth and Heaven, and the only difference between them is that the latter (of which there are only two units) are just a touch bigger and have a small seating area with a couch, or two big chairs and a small table. The hotel’s nine rooms are decorated in a simple, appealing style with wood floors, well-maintained all-wood furniture with clean lines, and burgundy accent pillows and curtains that add some elegance. Big abstract paintings are the only touch of color in rooms, but instead of being bland or plain, the effect is cute and homey. Huge windows open onto balconies offering serene views of the pool and the garden; a couple of rooms have a cocoon chair outside, but the rest have are unfurnished. Beds are comfortable and topped with duvets and four pillows. 

In-room amenities are great for the price, and include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, free water, and electric kettles with tea and coffee. Wi-Fi is free and reliable throughout the hotel. Bathrooms are spacious and clean, with wet room-style rain showers without curtains, red and off-white mosaic tiles on walls, and round sinks over black counters. Hairdryers and toiletries are provided in all rooms. 

Features are simple but thoughtful. The pool is cute and quiet, with just a handful of cushioned loungers, three big umbrellas providing some shade, and tons of plants around the deck. Drinks can be purchased at the restaurant, which opens directly onto the pool area, and towels are available for self service. The atmosphere is quiet and relaxing, and the lush garden around the pool makes it feel intimate and peaceful. An unlimited la carte breakfast is included in all rates, and the spread offers a variety of Vietnamese and international options along with bottomless hot drinks. The lunch and dinner menus include local specialties and international dishes, such as sandwiches, salads, pasta, and chicken. Meals can be served by the pool or in the rooms. There is a charming reading gazebo tucked away by the lobby, complete with books, big chairs, and lots of plants. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. Guests can borrow bikes for exploring. Note that the hotel doesn't provide shuttle service to the beach or town, which is unusual in Hoi An.