Hotele z: breakfast w Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam

This is a heartwarming story of a lost and found. This trip itinerary covered three places: Hanoi --＞ Ninh Binh (2.5-hour drive) Ninh Binh --＞ Ha Long (3-hour drive) Ha Long --＞ Hanoi Airport (2-hour drive) For two nights in Ninh Binh, I stayed at a place called ”Mai Luxury Hotel.” Judging by the name, it sounds grand, but in reality, it was more like a family-run, small-scale single-building guesthouse. However, the room was of 4-star hotel quality, so it was acceptable. After checking out, I had been on the way to Ha Long for about two hours when I realized I had left my Insta 360 camera in the hotel lobby. Knowing there was no way to go back and get it, I had to wait until I arrived in Ha Long before calling Mai Luxury Hotel. After confirming with them that I had indeed left it at the hotel, we started looking for a solution. Initially, they followed me on IG (their hotel IG only had 4 followers). We chatted via DM, and then they added me on WhatsApp to discuss. Originally, they wanted to find a driver that very evening to bring it to my hotel in Ha Long Bay. But because it was a holiday, they couldn't find a driver. Later, they found out I would be leaving Vietnam the next day, so they started looking for any drivers heading to the airport the following day. Not long after, they actually found a driver. They even sent me the driver's and vehicle's details. They also said they had already wrapped it up securely. At this point, I was inclined to believe they genuinely intended to return it. However, if the driver turned out to be dishonest, it could still go missing. On the final day, I arrived at the airport around 1 PM and received a message from the driver. After that, I didn't hear from him again. I grew increasingly anxious inside, thinking maybe he was still driving? Or perhaps he had already kept the camera for himself. Around 4 PM, I finally received a call from the driver. He even captured a photo of my anxious expression while waiting for him. As previously arranged with the hotel, I was to pay him 500,000 VND (about 150 HKD). At that moment, the driver actually handed me back 200,000 VND. Before I could react, he had already gotten back in his car and left. When I looked at the returned item, I could hardly believe it! The hotel had used a ”Happy New Year” bag to hold a ”Happy New Year” box. Upon opening the box, the camera was wrapped in cloth. The level of care and thoughtfulness was truly perfect. The feeling of joy from recovering something lost is truly indescribable. Of course, I wouldn't dare say that everyone in Vietnam is good, but at least on this trip, whether it was the hotpot restaurant owner, the tour guide on the boat, or the hotel staff, they all made me feel the warmth and kindness of the local people.

We thoroughly enjoyed our recent stay at the hotel. Our room was exceptionally spacious and comfortable, providing a wonderful retreat. Each morning, we had the pleasure of dining on the delicious breakfast served by the pool. The varied selection, which included both local and Vietnamese specialties, was the perfect way to start our days. The service throughout the hotel was truly excellent. The staff kindly provided us with a local map and offered valuable suggestions for activities, including a boat trip, bird watching, and exploring the Old Town. We particularly appreciated their insightful advice on the best times to visit various venues to avoid crowds and maximize our experiences, such as for optimal bird watching. A highlight was renting a motorbike from the hotel to explore. On one occasion, we found ourselves a little lost, but a quick message via WhatsApp to the hotel resulted in immediate and patient assistance to guide us back on track. Overall, it was a fantastic stay, made memorable by the thoughtful service and excellent amenities. We would not hesitate to return.

I had a wonderful stay here! Everything is brand new and works perfectly. A huge plus was being able to cast movies from my phone to the TV, as well as logging into Netflix directly. My night bus arrived very early, and the staff told me it was no problem to check in ahead of time. I arrived around 8:00–9:00 in the morning and was able to get into my room immediately. While this might depend on how busy they are, it shows how incredibly accommodating they are. Location-wise, it's just a 13-minute walk from the bus station, and there is plenty to see nearby, I did a lot of walking in the area. They also rent out electric bikes at great prices. Highly recommended! ( A small note, for hot water and the airco you have to switch on the black switches. I payment for me was only possible in cash.)

**A Hidden Paradise in Ninh Bình** I honestly didn't expect to find something this peaceful. Tucked between towering limestone mountains and a quiet river, this resort feels like a true 世外桃源 — a world away from everything. The pool is one of the most beautiful I've seen: spotless, calm, and perfectly framed by palm trees and thatched-roof bungalows. Every morning I'd sit by the water with the mountains rising just behind the rooftops, and it genuinely felt like the outside world had disappeared. What made the stay truly special, though, was the service. The staff were warm, attentive, and constantly going out of their way to make guests comfortable — from a relaxing complimentary foot soak by the river to little touches like fresh tea and local snacks served in traditional bowls on the bamboo table. Nothing felt rushed or transactional; every interaction felt genuine and kind. The surrounding scenery is stunning — bamboo groves, a floating pavilion over the water, and mountains wrapped in mist most mornings. Sitting there with tea and watching the light change over the hills was one of my favorite moments of the entire trip. Rooms are simple but comfortable, blending naturally into the landscape with earthy tones and thatched roofs that suit the setting perfectly. It's the kind of place where you slow down without even trying. If you're looking for a peaceful escape with genuine hospitality, clean facilities, and gorgeous natural surroundings, I can't recommend this place enough. It's a rare find — truly a paradise hidden among the mountains and water.

we stayed here for 2 nights, the room was very spacious with 2 queen beds. a nice little area outside to sit and chill aswell. The owner was a very very lovely and helpful man and his lovely family. he offers motorbike rentals and help with onward travels. the location is very good aswell, just a 30 second walk off of the main street with restaurants clothe shops etc. for the price you cannot complain and would recommend for those who are on a budget.

Honestly, you can't complain. The location is really good; cafes, restaurants, and spas are all within walking distance. The bed was clean and had all the essential amenities. Breakfast was a small buffet with pancakes, noodles, rice, and pastries. They also offered water upon arrival and departure.

I recently stayed at this hotel and had a great experience with the staff. The service was truly excellent — 100/10. Everyone was very friendly, helpful, and quick to assist whenever there was an issue. One of the best things about this hotel is the view. The scenery is beautiful and peaceful, with a great natural atmosphere that makes the stay feel very relaxing. However, the hotel is still very new (it seems to have opened less than a month ago. /ฃWe stayed on June 24,2026), so guests should expect that there may still be some things that are not fully ready yet. If you prefer a smoother and more complete stay, I would recommend waiting another 2–3 months. I believe the hotel will be much more prepared by then. The hotel had a swimming pool, steam room, and sauna, but unfortunately the steam room and sauna were not ready to use yet. The hotel also offers motorbike rental, but the condition of the rental bike could be improved. The room itself was nice, but because the hotel is new and has had very few guests. There was also a new building smell (possibly paint or construction materials). There was ongoing construction nearby as well. I experienced a drainage issue during my stay, but the staff handled it very quickly and provided excellent support. Their attitude and service really made a difference. At the time of my visit, there was only one other family staying, so breakfast was served as a set menu instead of a buffet, which is understandable with fewer guests. Overall, I enjoyed my stay and really appreciated the amazing staff. With some time for improvements, I think this hotel has great potential.

We stayed one night at this lovely homestay in Hoa Lu, near Ninh Binh, and it was perfect. The owners are so kind and caring — they don’t speak much English, but they make you feel welcome with their hearts. It was the best experience we’ve had in Vietnam. The room was very clean and comfortable, with a nice bathroom and a view of the garden and pool. The food was amazing — we had breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even coffee in the afternoon, and everything was delicious. We also rented a motorbike from the homestay, which was very easy. I really recommend this place if you want peace, good food, and lovely people.

Ninh Binh Harmony Retreat, from our experience, can only equate to an oasis of calm, beauty and tranquillity. The grounds are lush and abundant with surprises at every turn. The staff are exceptional, but that is understating their level of service and commitment. They are like Family and become friends in short time. Chi, the manager, goes far above and beyond any level we have experienced in our many travels. Nothing is a problem and solutions are simple, including locating a lost bag in Saigon. The team who Chi guides throughout the day, are friendly, sociable and genuine and they cannot go far enough . They anticipate any need or want before you realise and create moments and memories that you can only wish would happen in other establishments. Chi, Hunee and Tony, along with other staff whose names we sadly did not get, are the soul and heart of Ninh Binh Harmony Retreat. Being in their presence enhanced the experience. They are a total credit to their employer and business. The Retreat is set back off a main road, down an alley full of laughing children and families. You feel completely detached from the hustle and bustle of Tam Coc town or Hoa Loa Old Town, which are must visits. There is a wonderful pool, suitable for families, an 8 ball table, karaoke, bikes and the most incredible breakfast and coffee. We travel extensively and felt a sincere and genuine personal experience that made us feel truly cared for. We cannot recommend choosing Ninh Binh Harmony Retreat highly enough.

3~4 May 2026 - 4 Pax 1N Narci Resort Tam Coc. Hotel Manager Jenny sent me a WhatsApp message on 2nd May to welcome us and offered her assistance to arrange for private transport & local tour etc.. Am pleased with the extended service provided by the hotel staff. Since I've yet to find a private driver, she helped to arrange for 2-way transport, pick-up from Hanoi hotel ＞ Narci Resort ＞ Hanoi International Airport (reasonable fees). We arrived at Tam Coc around 1pm, dropped the luggage at the hotel & visited Bai Dinh Pagoda. Checked-in the hotel around 9pm. A modern & beautiful resort opened Feb 2026. To our surprise, our 3x Deluxe Garden Rooms were in different villas & all on level 2 without elevator. My mom age 80 were unhappy as she couldn't climb the stairs & my sisters age 60 & 67 were unhappy that we were separated by different villas. Fortunately, there are 2x Executive Garden Rooms on the ground floor were available but one of the room has smell. So, we decided to pay additional fee for upgrade of 1x Deluxe ＞ 1x Executive + 1x FOC extra bed (3 pax), the other sister stayed the level 2 Deluxe Room. Hotel breakfast spread is good & food is delicious. Overall, we were very happy with the hotel rooms & staff service. Would suggest the hotel to state there is no elevator for Deluxe Garden Room (level 2), so that guests who are unable to climb the stairs will select either the ground floor Executive Garden Room or the Tower Standard Rooms with elevator.