Hanoi's Hidden Gem: Blue 29 Hotel - Unforgettable Stay!
Hanoi's Hidden Gem: Blue 29 Hotel - Unforgettable Stay! - My Honest (and Slightly Rambling) Review
Okay, so you're thinking about Hanoi, huh? Smart move. It's a sensory overload in the best possible way. And you're probably looking for a hotel, because, well, you need a place to crash after dodging motorbikes all day. Let me tell you about the Blue 29 Hotel. It's… a thing. And by thing, I mean it’s got some serious potential, some definite quirks, and ultimately, a pretty decent shot at making your Hanoi trip memorable.
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag (But Mostly Good!)
Alright, let's get the nitty-gritty out of the way. Accessibility is always a big deal for me because, well, life’s a lot easier when you can actually get into places. The Blue 29 is… trying. They have an elevator, which is HUGE in a city with limited accessibility. They also have facilities for disabled guests, which is a promising sign. I didn't personally test it, but the fact that it's listed is a positive. I'd definitely recommend calling ahead and getting the specifics if you have specific needs – don't just assume, people!
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Safe & Sound!
Listen, post-pandemic, everyone is understandably freaked out about germs. Blue 29 seems to get it. They've got all the buzzwords: Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer everywhere you look, and Staff trained in safety protocol. I saw them wiping down everything like their lives depended on it. And bonus points for the Room sanitization opt-out available – I appreciate the choice! Felt safe and secure, which is a big win in a bustling city. Plus, they have a Doctor/nurse on call, which is always comforting. And let's not forget the CCTV in common areas & outside property, and 24-hour security - it's a relief to know that someone is watching out for you.
Rooms: Comfy Enough (And the Wi-Fi Actually Works!)
Okay, so the rooms. They’re… good. Not luxury, not five-star, but definitely comfortable and functional. They’ve got Air conditioning (essential!), Blackout curtains (bless!), and Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! YES! And the Internet access – wireless was actually fast and reliable. I could stream Netflix without buffering, which is a miracle. They also had a Coffee/tea maker (another win!), a Mini bar (slightly overpriced, but hey, convenience!), and a Refrigerator for your emergency water bottles (and maybe a sneaky beer). I had a window that opens, which was great for getting some fresh air. The Daily housekeeping did a pretty good job, too. The Bathrooms were clean and functional, with a Separate shower/bathtub.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Foodie Paradise (or at least, a good starting point!)
Okay, this is where things get interesting. The Asian breakfast was delicious. Seriously. Pho in the morning? Yes, please! They also had a Breakfast [buffet], with a decent spread of options. They also offer Breakfast in room and Breakfast takeaway service which is ideal! They have a Bar, and a Poolside bar, which is perfect for a sundowner. The Restaurants serve a mix of Asian cuisine in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, and even some Vegetarian restaurant options. It's not Michelin-star dining, but it's perfectly acceptable and offers a good range of choices. Their Coffee shop is pretty great for a quick caffeine fix. I did try a Happy hour once, and it was… happy. The Room service [24-hour] is a lifesaver after a long day of exploring.
Services and Conveniences: They Thought of Everything (Almost!)
The Blue 29 has a bunch of helpful services. They have a Concierge, a Currency exchange, and Cash withdrawal options. They also offer Laundry service, Dry cleaning, and Ironing service (because, let's face it, you're going to wrinkle your clothes). They have a Gift/souvenir shop which is handy for last-minute gifts. They even had a Convenience store, which is good for snacks and drinks. The Doorman was always friendly and helpful. They also have Luggage storage, which is great for early arrivals or late departures. They're also pretty good at Contactless check-in/out.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Spa Day, Anyone? (Maybe!)
Okay, so this is where the Blue 29 really shines. They have a Swimming pool! And not just any swimming pool, but a Pool with view! It's on the roof and it's gorgeous. I spent a good chunk of my time there, just chilling and gazing out at the city. They also have a Spa, a Sauna, and a Steamroom. I indulged in a Massage (heaven!), and it was… well, let's just say I almost fell asleep. Seriously, the masseuse was amazing. They have a Gym/fitness center, which I didn't use (I prefer exploring the city, but good to know it's there!). They also offer Body scrub and Body wrap services if you're feeling extra fancy. It's a fantastic way to relax after a day of exploring the city.
For the Kids: Family-Friendly Vibes (But Check the Details)
They advertise as Family/child friendly, which is great. They also have Babysitting service and Kids meal options. This is a huge plus for families.
Getting Around: Easy Peasy
They offer Airport transfer, which is a must-have after a long flight. They also have Taxi service, and Car park [free of charge].
My Slightly Rambling, Completely Honest Conclusion:
Look, the Blue 29 Hotel isn't perfect. There might be a few little quirks, like maybe the occasional slightly slow service, or a tiny bit of noise from the street. But honestly? The location is fantastic, the staff is genuinely friendly and helpful, and the amenities are excellent for the price. The pool alone is worth the stay. The food is good, the rooms are comfortable, and you’ll feel safe. I'd definitely recommend it. It's a solid, well-rounded hotel that'll make your Hanoi adventure even better.
Here's my slightly messy, but hopefully persuasive, offer:
Tired of Generic Hotels? Experience Hanoi Like a Local (But With All the Comforts!)
Book your unforgettable stay at Blue 29 Hotel and get:
- Instant Relaxation: Dive into our stunning rooftop pool with panoramic city views – the perfect escape from the Hanoi hustle.
- Authentic Flavors: Savor a delicious Asian breakfast that will fuel your day of discovery.
- Ultimate Comfort: Relax in well-appointed rooms with free Wi-Fi, blackout curtains, and all the essentials.
- Peace of Mind: Enjoy a safe and clean environment with top-notch hygiene protocols.
- Stress-Free Travel: Benefit from our convenient services, including airport transfers, laundry, and a helpful concierge.
But wait, there's more!
- Book now and receive a complimentary welcome drink at our poolside bar!
- Special offer for families: Kids eat free with a minimum stay of 3 nights!
Don't miss out on this hidden gem! Book your stay at Blue 29 Hotel today and create memories that will last a lifetime. Click here to book and discover the true heart of Hanoi!
Bali Paradise: Your Private Pool & Garden Awaits (Roselyn 1BR)
Okay, buckle up, buttercup. This isn't your grandma's perfectly-planned itinerary. This is… my Hanoi adventure, and trust me, it's gonna be a ride. We're talking Blue 29 Hotel, Hanoi, Vietnam, and I'm going in blind. Pray for me.
Hanoi: A Messy, Magnificent, and Mostly Unplanned Adventure (aka: My Attempt to Conquer Vietnam)
Day 1: Arrival and the Great Pho Fiasco
Morning (Like, REALLY morning, thanks jet lag): Landed in Hanoi. The airport? Chaos. Beautiful, organized chaos, but still chaos. Found the pre-booked taxi (patting myself on the back for that small victory). The driver, bless his heart, drove like he was auditioning for Fast & Furious: Hanoi Drift. We arrived at the Blue 29 Hotel… and it was… well, it was there. Clean, small, and the staff were ridiculously friendly, which immediately bumped my mood up a notch. Check-in was smooth, which I needed after the taxi ride.
Afternoon: The Pho Hunt and the Language Barrier Blues: Okay, food. Gotta get food. My stomach was growling a symphony of jet-lagged misery. I'd read a million travel blogs (because, clearly, I'm a genius planner) about the "best pho" in Hanoi. Armed with a poorly-translated phrasebook and a desperate hunger, I ventured out. First attempt? Disaster. Found a place, pointed at a bowl of something that looked suspiciously like noodles, and got… something. Edible, technically. But not pho. The broth was thin, the meat was… questionable. I ate it anyway, because, you know, gotta commit. The waiter gave me a look that clearly said, "Tourist." I felt it.
Evening: Old Quarter Wanderings and the "I'm Lost" Moment: The Old Quarter is… insane. Gorgeous, chaotic, sensory overload. Motorbikes buzzing like angry bees, street vendors yelling (I think they were yelling), and the smells… oh, the smells! Incense, frying food, exhaust fumes… a potent cocktail. Got completely lost in the maze of tiny streets within ten minutes. Panic set in. Briefly. Took a deep breath, remembered I had a phone with a map, and slowly, painstakingly, found my way back to the hotel. High five to myself for not bursting into tears. Dinner? Found a little place tucked away, ordered spring rolls (delicious!), and watched the world go by. Found a tiny, ridiculously strong coffee place and downed a coffee, which was a mistake as I was up the whole night.
Day 2: The Temple of Literature, Water Puppets, and the Great Coffee Conundrum
Morning: Temple Time (and the Imposter Syndrome): Woke up feeling like I'd been run over by a motorbike (see: Day 1). Determined to be a "cultured traveler," I headed to the Temple of Literature. It was beautiful. Stunning architecture, peaceful courtyards, and a general air of zen. Felt like a complete imposter, though. Like, I’m standing here, surrounded by ancient history, and all I can think is, "Wow, that roof tile looks… shiny." Tried to soak it in, but the urge to take a million photos and post them on Instagram was strong. Resisted. Mostly.
Afternoon: Water Puppets and the Great Coffee Conundrum, Take Two: Water puppets! They were… interesting. The music was definitely an experience. The puppets themselves were surprisingly expressive. It's a bit of a cultural thing, you know? I was starting to get a bit tired. So, coffee. Found another coffee place. This time, they were serving egg coffee. I was skeptical. Egg in coffee? But… it was… amazing. Like, mind-blowingly good. Sweet, creamy, with a hint of coffee bitterness. I promptly had two. My stomach is now starting to feel the effects.
Evening: Street Food Adventures (and the Potential for Mild Food Poisoning): Okay, street food. I'd been warned. "Don't eat from the street stalls!" they said. "You'll get sick!" they warned. But the smells… the smells were irresistible. So, I plunged in. Found a stall serving what looked like grilled skewers. Pointed. Ate. Delicious. Then, a woman selling some sort of pancakes. Ate them too. Now, am I going to regret this? Probably. But the flavors were incredible. Fingers crossed for a restful night (and a functioning digestive system).
Day 3: Ha Long Bay (The Day I Almost Died of Beauty)
- All Day: Okay, this deserves its own section. Booked a day trip to Ha Long Bay. The pictures? Stunning. The reality? Even more stunning. The water… the limestone karsts… the sheer scale of it all… I was speechless. Actually, I think I did speak, but it was mostly just "Wow." "Incredible." "Holy crap." Took a boat cruise, kayaked through hidden caves, and felt a level of peace I haven't felt in years. The air was clean, the scenery was breathtaking, and for a few glorious hours, I forgot all about my jet lag, my questionable food choices, and my general state of disarray. It was… perfection. The sun setting over the bay? I almost burst into tears. Almost.
Day 4: The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (and a Lesson in Patience)
Morning: Decided to be “cultured” again and visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Arrived at the entrance, ready to pay my respects, and… the line. The line was epic. It snaked around the entire complex, and I swear, it grew longer every minute. I stood in line for approximately two hours. Two hours! In the Hanoi heat! I felt like I was training for a marathon, or possibly a zombie apocalypse. The actual viewing? Brief. Very brief. You shuffle past, you see the man, you shuffle out. It was… an experience. Not sure if I’d do it again.
Afternoon: The Hanoi Hilton (and a Dose of Reality): Visited the Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the "Hanoi Hilton." It was a somber, sobering experience. To see the conditions these prisoners endured… it was a stark reminder of the realities of war and the resilience of the human spirit. Left feeling deeply moved and, honestly, a bit overwhelmed. Needed a strong coffee (again).
Evening: Packing (and the Sudden Realization That I Have No Idea What I'm Doing): My flight home is tomorrow. Time to pack. Realized I’ve bought way too many souvenirs, I have no clean clothes, and my suitcase looks like a bomb went off inside. How am I supposed to fit all this stuff? Maybe I'll just buy another suitcase. Then, the sudden, terrifying realization hits: I have to leave this place. This chaotic, beautiful, frustrating, delicious place. And I’m not ready.
Day 5: Departure (and the Promise to Return)
Morning: Said goodbye to the wonderful staff at Blue 29 Hotel. They were saints. Took one last walk through the Old Quarter, soaking up the sights, sounds, and smells. Found a final bowl of pho (this time, it was amazing).
Afternoon: Airport. The flight. Goodbye, Hanoi.
Final Thoughts:
Hanoi? It's a beast. It's a beautiful, frustrating, delicious, chaotic beast. Did I get lost? Yes. Did I eat questionable street food? Absolutely. Did I have moments of pure, unadulterated joy? You bet your sweet bippy I did. Would I go back? In a heartbeat. I’m not sure if I conquered Hanoi, but Hanoi definitely conquered me. And honestly? I wouldn't have it any other way. Now, to figure out how to survive the flight home… Wish me luck!
MedellÃn's Hidden Gem: V Grand Hotel (Radisson Individuals) - Unforgettable Stay!
Blue 29 Hotel: Unforgettable (and Sometimes Forgettable!) Stay - FAQs
Okay, spill the tea. Is Blue 29 really *that* good? The reviews are all over the place!
Alright, buckle up, buttercup. "That good" is a loaded question, isn't it? Look, Blue 29 *is* a hidden gem, in the sense that it's tucked away and you might miss it if you blink. It's got charm, a certain... *je ne sais quoi*. But let's be real, it's not the Ritz. Think more "quirky boutique hotel with a heart."
The reviews? Yeah, they're a rollercoaster. One minute you're reading about a divine breakfast, the next someone's complaining about a leaky faucet. That's Hanoi for you, baby! Embrace the chaos. I personally had *one* breakfast that made me weep (in a good way), and another where I swear the coffee was… questionable. But hey, it's an experience, right?
Location, location, location! Is it actually in a good spot? Close to the action?
The location is a definite *plus*. It's in the Old Quarter, which is exactly where you *want* to be. Walking distance to Hoan Kiem Lake, the night market (prepare for sensory overload!), and about a million pho stalls. Seriously, I swear I gained five pounds just *thinking* about the pho.
But (and there's always a but), it's tucked down a side street. This means it's quieter than being right on the main drag, which is *amazing* for sleep. However, it also means finding it the first time is an adventure. I spent a good 20 minutes wandering around, convinced I'd taken a wrong turn. My luggage and I nearly melted into a puddle of sweat. Just look for the blue sign (it's actually blue, imagine that!).
Tell me about the rooms! Are they as cute as the pictures?
The rooms… okay, the pictures are definitely *styled*. They're cute, yes. Think exposed brick, maybe a vintage-looking fan, and a general "rustic chic" vibe. My room, however, was a bit... compact. Let's just say I became intimately acquainted with the furniture. And the bathroom? Well, the shower *did* flood the entire floor on one occasion. It was a truly bonding experience with the housekeeping staff, who were incredibly sweet and apologetic. I felt terrible for them.
But you know what? It didn't ruin the trip. The bed was comfy (after the initial shock of the size), the air conditioning worked like a dream (essential!), and the overall atmosphere was charming. Just don't expect palatial luxury. Embrace the cozy.
Breakfast! You mentioned the breakfast... what’s the deal?
Oh, breakfast. The *breakfast*. This is where Blue 29 really shines, and also where it occasionally trips over its own feet. One morning, I swear I had the best pho of my *life*. The broth was rich, the noodles were perfect, the herbs were fragrant… I'm getting emotional just thinking about it. I practically licked the bowl clean. It was pure, unadulterated bliss.
Then, the next day? Well, let's just say the coffee was a little… weak. And the "fresh fruit" was definitely not the freshest. It was a bit of a letdown after the previous day's culinary masterpiece. So, the breakfast experience is a gamble. But hey, even a mediocre breakfast in Hanoi is still pretty darn good, right?
What about the staff? Are they helpful? Do they speak English?
The staff? Ah, the staff. They are the heart and soul of Blue 29. They are genuinely lovely people. Most of them speak English, though sometimes there's a slight language barrier. But honestly, it just adds to the charm. They're always smiling, always willing to help, and they go above and beyond.
I remember one time, I was completely lost (again, shocker). I was trying to find a particular shop, and I was flailing around, pointing at my phone and looking utterly bewildered. A member of the staff saw me, practically dragged me inside, and spent a good 15 minutes helping me navigate the chaotic streets of Hanoi. They even drew me a map! That's the kind of service you just don't get everywhere. They're the real MVPs.
Is there anything *really* bad about the hotel?
Okay, let's be honest. Yes. There were a few minor annoyances. The walls are a bit thin. You can sometimes hear… everything. Especially if your neighbors are loud. And the Wi-Fi wasn't always the strongest. I spent a good chunk of one afternoon pacing around the lobby, trying to get a decent signal.
And, okay, I have to admit the shower situation was less than ideal. The flooding incident was a definite low point. But honestly, it's Hanoi. Things aren't always perfect. And that, in a weird way, is part of the charm. It's a bit rough around the edges, but it's got a soul. It's not a sterile, cookie-cutter hotel experience. It's real. It's authentic. And that, for me, is worth more than a perfectly functioning shower.
Would you recommend Blue 29?
Absolutely. But with a caveat. If you're looking for flawless luxury and a perfectly curated experience, then maybe, *maybe*, Blue 29 isn't for you. Go somewhere else. But if you're looking for a hotel with character, a friendly staff, a great location, and a chance to experience the real Hanoi, then YES. Book it. Book it now!
Just pack your sense of humor, your patience, and maybe a pair of wellies (just in case of another shower flood). You'll have an unforgettable stay. And you might even cry over your pho. It's that kind of place.
