Review: Hanoi Friends Inn- Tidy Place with a Friendly Service

Last Updated on March 28, 2019 by Tina

I checked in at Hanoi Friends Inn as a walk-in guest at past 2 in the morning two months ago. I didn’t book an accommodation prior to my flight to Hanoi because I still haven’t decided if I’m going to stay at the airport until 6 in the morning or stay in a hotel.

My flight arrived in Hanoi before 1 AM. After exchanging some of my cash and buying a sim card, I decided to stay in a hotel because I was feeling sleepy. I booked a Grab car to The Signature Inn from the airport. I assumed that they still had available space because when I checked their website a few hours prior to my flight, there were still a few bunk beds available. But when I arrived there, I was told that they were fully booked. So at 2 in the morning, I was out in the streets of Hanoi Old Quarter looking for a hotel, and it was raining. Good thing I brought my raincoat.

I didn’t know where to go. The hotels and hostels I passed by were closed, probably because they were already fully booked. I didn’t expect that it would be hard to find a hotel there at 2 in the morning. I continued walking, and I was starting to get scared. There were few guys in motorcycle and some taxi drivers who approached me and asked where I was going but I ignored them. I saw a hostel that was open but when I went in I was told that they were also fully booked. Then I saw Friends Inn. I thought that maybe they were fully booked too but inquired anyway. Luckily they have a vacant room.

The Location

Hanoi Friends Inn is located at the very heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, at 46 Hang Ga, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi. It is one of the most convenient places to stay in Hanoi city. It takes around 10-minute walk to Hoan Kiem Lake or Dong Xuan Central Market. You can have easy access to restaurants, nightlife and historical sites in a blink.

The Room

The room was very clean and spacious. It has a flat-screen TV, a closet, and a mirrored dresser. Wifi was also available. The bed was comfortable and big and the air condition was working fine. There was no mini-bar in the room but there was a complimentary bottled water. The bathroom was also big and clean. Towels, bedroom slippers, and toiletries were provided. There was also a blow dryer at the bathroom.

The Breakfast

There is a free breakfast at the hostel. Not a buffet breakfast, but there are plenty of foods to choose from and their food was good. They also have free coffee, tea or juice, and fruits.

The Staff

Of all the hotels and hostels I have stayed at, Hanoi Friends Inn has the friendliest and most helpful staff. When I was having breakfast, the staff Hannah was super accommodating and made sure that everything was fine with me. I was very contented with their service so I booked with them again when I went back to Hanoi from Hue. Their staff Max and Harry assisted me while checking in, and offered me very cold lemonade and fruits while waiting. They provided me with a map of Hanoi and gave me tips on where to have the best coffee, money changer with the best rate, etc.

They allowed me to leave my bags in their storage area after I checked out so that I will be able to roam around the city comfortably since my flight back to Manila is still late at night. When I went back to get my bags, they let me rest at the reception area. They also offered the shower room of the dorm room, in case I wanted to take a quick shower.

Summary

Overall, I had a pleasant experience at Hanoi Friends Inn. It wasn’t luxurious at all, but it had everything I needed for my stay. The rooms were comfortable and clean. Their staff was extremely friendly and helpful. It’s an excellent value for the price, perfect for budget travelers who are looking for a no-frills and tidy place in a great location and with a friendly service. I highly recommend it to anyone going to Hanoi.

Friends Inn Policies & Conditions

1. They accept payment in both credit card and cash.
2. No fees are charged for cancellation made over 3 days. If canceled later, the first night will be charged. Total booking will be charged in case of no-show.
3. Check-in time is 14:00 pm and check out time is 12 noon.
4. Pet is not allowed.
5. Smoking is not allowed in the whole building.
6. Reception is available 24/7.
7. Racism is not allowed.

You can check out the rates of Hanoi Friends Inn here.

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