Soleil Boutique Hotel
Staying at Soleil Boutique Hotel in Hanoi was an absolute delight. Located right in the heart of the bustling city, the moment I stepped in, I was greeted with a welcome drink—such a nice touch. The staff primarily spoke Vietnamese and French, but with a simple translation app, communication flowed smoothly. They also understood basic English, making things easy for international guests. When I mentioned wanting to see the fireworks, they kindly directed me to a rooftop viewing spot on the 11th floor—perfect for the evening display. My room featured a spacious king-sized bed, offering plenty of comfort and a restful night’s sleep. All amenities were well-stocked, though I couldn’t tell which towel was for body use—minor confusion, but nothing major. The large bathhouse requires an extra fee, but the hotel’s interior was immaculate and had that upscale, elegant vibe. Complimentary coffee, tea, and bottled water were available throughout the day, but alcoholic drinks, juices, and snacks came at a cost—checked out during checkout, so I paid for what I enjoyed. Breakfast ran from around 6 AM until just before 10 AM, offering a great mix of local Vietnamese dishes and Western options. The fresh pho (noodle soup) was made right in front of me—hot, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. It was buffet-style, and the staff patiently explained each dish in Vietnamese. They were incredibly attentive—offering to carry plates when I couldn’t handle more, clearing empty trays promptly, and showing genuine care. The fruit selection and local specialties were delicious enough that I’d rather eat them here than buy anything off the street. After check-in, the front desk team even asked how I slept and if everything was okay—so thoughtful. The pool is located on the 11th floor, accessible via stairs. Guests can either change into swimwear in their room and wear a bathrobe, or change in the private restroom and shower area—both options are convenient. The pool opens as early as 7 AM, ideal for morning swims. The cocktail bar was quiet when I arrived, and it took a while to get someone to come over—so I suggest heading down there after enjoying the pool; it’s much more efficient. One of the best perks? Left luggage service after checkout. I returned later to explore the city again without carrying my bags. Staff even offered to help organize my belongings—truly considerate. For transportation, they can arrange one-way taxis, which I used for my return trip. While slightly more expensive than hailing a cab myself, the price was clearly stated upfront, and paying in advance gave me peace of mind. The elevator system requires swiping your key card after entering—secure and smooth. Overall, this hotel delivers exceptional value, top-tier service, and a memorable stay. I’ll definitely be back.
