SEA 2014: Golden Time Hostel 2 Hanoi, Vietnam

I normally wouldn’t write up a review of a hostel stay, but I feel like the Golden Time Hostel 2 in Hanoi deserves a special mention.

It’s not fancy by any means (but it’s a step up from a normal hostel since all of the rooms are private rooms), but the service was incredible. The front desk was staffed by some of the most service-oriented and friendly people that I’ve ever encountered at a place of lodging. Ann in particular always remembers who you are, who you’re with, what you’re doing, details about what you like, and she’s always willing to help out with anything that you need. She could work at any 5-star hotel and teach them about hospitality.

Again, the facilities aren’t fancy, but it’s clean and comfortable. The beds and pillows might be a little hard, and the first day that we stayed there the electricity occasionally cut out (which was annoying mostly because it meant that the air conditioning would need to be turned back on), but the location is fantastic (super close to Hoan Kiem Lake and tons of good food around), and it’s very affordable (right now, starting at $20 per room per night). They also serve breakfast, but you should be exploring the streets of Hanoi instead for all of your meals.

When I go back to Hanoi, I’d be happy to stay here again, and I heartily recommend it to anyone who doesn’t need fancy accommodations but wants to experience great hospitality.