Review of My Stay in HCM
My experience staying here was absolutely delightful. I must highlight Nelly at the reception who was exceptionally helpful and polite, offering me invaluable local advice on transportation, phone usage, common phrases, directions, and power outlets. Her professionalism, excellent English skills, and outstanding customer service stood out prominently. Her colleagues were equally commendable, but Nelly truly shone. The entire staff was warm, conversational, welcoming, and went out of their way to assist with any queries. I've rated my experience a "5", but I want to clarify my reasoning, as everyone prioritizes different aspects. I arrived just as the country was reopening to tourists post the main Covid period, and all hotels were facing initial operational challenges. The top-floor cafe was undergoing renovations, yet the charming little cafe in the courtyard served delicious food and coffee. The serene setting with trees and a peaceful courtyard was idyllic, offering a perfect sanctuary from the city's hustle and bustle. The staff's genuine friendliness and helpfulness were consistent. The room was impeccably clean, the bathroom facilities were good, and the internet connection was reliable — everything I needed. The overall ambiance was pleasant, with a great vibe. Moreover, it was incredibly cost-effective. I could easily picture myself staying here for an extended period, focusing on writing. The surrounding area was rich in exploration opportunities. I strolled into District One several times and thoroughly enjoyed it. For those averse to long walks, Grab taxis or motorbikes are readily available. General advice: I regret not downloading and using Grab sooner — it's well-designed, efficient, offers English options, and its drivers are reliable. In contrast, traditional taxis can be problematic — I had unpleasant experiences, including being overcharged and getting into arguments within the first three days, prompting me to avoid them altogether. In contrast, Grab drivers were consistently honest, professional, and affordable, a stark contrast. At the airport, I found it convenient to purchase a local SIM card just past immigration on the right side — it was inexpensive, reliable, and hassle-free. Beware of scams involving currency exchange or deceptive tactics — my advice is to segregate your money into two areas, keeping smaller amounts for daily expenses like Banh Mi in your pocket and larger sums in your wallet, organized by sequence. Memorizing a few key numbers can be a handy rule of thumb. For instance, 500,000 Dong is approximately 30 Australian dollars, a useful reference point. Local cuisine is generally excellent value, whereas anything exotic tends to approach Australian prices, such as Japanese food. I particularly savored local dishes like Pho and Banh Mi, though I regret not brushing up on food-specific vocabulary before my trip (something I'm rectifying for my next visit). The Fine Arts Museum in HCM, also known as the Fine Arts Museum, was fantastic — I found it captivating. The War Remnants Museum, though somber and educational, felt like a necessary homage. I recommend visiting the war museum in the morning and the art museum in the afternoon for a balanced experience. I fully intend to revisit this hotel — despite typically seeking amenities like a training pool and gym, the genuine warmth, verdant courtyard, and peaceful atmosphere of this location more than compensate for any bells and whistles it may lack. Highly recommended. Simon Inglis.
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