Democracy Hotel Hanoi

Democracy Hotel's strength is it's location.

Conveniently located in the Old Quarter (Cau Go St.) - north of Hoan Kiem Lake - it's just a 3-5 minute stroll to the lake and the water puppet theatre. The tourist information center, as well as, the City View Resturant is just across the street.

Since it is within the Old Quarter, there are a lot of things to see, do, and buy. There are countless nearby tour operators, banks, stores, and restaurants surrounding the hotel. If you are tired of noodles and want western fastfood, KFC is just nearby.

As for my experience with Democracy hotel, well at first I was a bit upset about them failing to pick me up at the airport. I informed the hotel a week before i arrive about the change in my flight's schedule - I arrive an hour early. Somehow they were not able to update that information. I was already at the hotel when the pick up arrived at the airport. They tried to make up for that by transferring me to a bigger room the next day, but I opted to stay in my own little cozy room.

The standard single room is quite OK, although I'm not used to rooms without any windows. The air-con was cold and there were a lot of channels to choose from on cable TV. The only aspect I didn't like about it is the toilet where i can barely move.
I've seen the bigger rooms and they are better.

The lobby has several computers where one can use the internet. For those with laptops, there's no free Wifi, but with establishments in close proximity to each other, one can catch stray signals in the rooms.

They keep the rooms clean everyday, however room service failed to lock my door after cleaning - but that happened only once. And as for most hotels, when you're on the upper floors, going up the stairs can be such a pain.

As for the staff, they are all very helpful and friendly. They would spend time chit-chatting with guests at the lobby and make them feel right at home.

I would recommend this hotel to anyone who prioritizes convenience and good value for money in Ha Noi.