VIETNAM TOUR INFORMATION

Vietnam has been quietly reinventing itself from the carcass of an horrific war-torn landscape in the seventies, into today's model, the early buds of a Thailand alternative. Now, there is much to enjoy, whether it is in the bustling streets of Vietnam's capital Hanoi in the north, Hue, the ancient capital of the emperors in the centre, or in its largest city Ho Chi Minh City the former Saigon in the south.
Vietnam hotel information has improved from the early 90's when Hanoi had no luxury hotels. Today it is a different story, with eight five star properties and over nine thousand rooms available. So with so much potential on offer, when it comes to Vietnam hotel information where are the best places to stay?
Hanoi
Pick of the bunch is without doubt the famous Sofitel Metropole. This French colonial style hotel has been an historical treasure since it first opened in 1901 and was the first place any invading army (and there have been many) first raised its flag. Heads of State, film stars and musical legends have all enjoyed its hospitality and although there is a modern wing, it is advised to opt for the old part with its wooden floors and cane furniture.
For shallower pockets, a long time budget favorite in Hanoi is Chains First Eden situated at the north end of the Old Quarter. The rooms are comfortable with Chinese furniture, it's well maintained albeit a little worn and everybody speaks English. It's a perfect place to explore the Old Quarter and will consistently deliver value for money.
Hue
Within a city steeped in such illustriously royal history, what better place to stay than in the former residence of the French Governor. La Residence is a boutique luxury hotel that sits right on the banks of the Perfume River overlooking the Imperial Citadel and the views of the river and the outer gate of the citadel at sunset from your balcony are simply magical. The hotel reflects its former French owner with colonial art deco lobby furniture, spacious rooms and tiled bathrooms that still have chaud and froid marking the hot and cold taps.
The Hoa Hong has been serving the backpacking community in Hue for years and still manages to keep its rates at bargain levels. The rooms are comfortable with good firm beds and nice sized bathrooms. The best rooms are facing the less noisy city side, so make sure you get one of those. There's a little bar in the lobby that serves cocktails and there are themed evenings in one of the two restaurants where you are asked to dress like royals. Hilarious.
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Nguyen Hue Street and Dong Khoi in District 1 are where most of the best hotels restaurants, shops and bars are to be found however if you're traveling on a tight budget, head for the Pham Ngu Lao area.
The New World Hotel is the city's classiest property and where David Beckham and hosts of other celebrities head for when they are in town. Everything about it is top notch from the rooms to the lounges and restaurants and it's right in the centre of town.
Ngoc Minh may be at the other end of the scale, but it's regarded as the crème de la crème for backpackers. Shoes have to be taken off before going up to the rooms, so it's just as well the floors are spotless. Good outdoor restaurant on the fourth floor.
A comprehensive guide of the best Vietnam hotel information, is available at cheap hotels there will be something for all budgets.
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