Hotels met bar in 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.

**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.

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.

The room I stayed in was good, clean and equipped with everything I needed for a comfortable stay. The location is excellent, being close to Bai Dinh Temple and the Trang An river tour, which made exploring very convenient. The property itself is wonderfully peaceful, surrounded by nature and perfect for relaxing away from busy areas. The staff were friendly and accommodating throughout, always happy to help. There was also a very cute dog on-site, which added a lovely, homely touch. Overall, it was a pleasant and enjoyable stay that I would recommend.

Nice little hotel. But rooms are definitely not sound proof. Tonight there's a party going on at the local restaurant beside and they are so loud! It's 11pm now and they are still shouting and talking loudly. Definitely not as tranquil as I thought it would be here. Also people could smoke in common areas here, we wished they had no smoking areas! A group of french tourists smoking all the time in the lobby area. Otherwise despite all the negatives about others, this area is close to the city centre, and also close to the paddy fields. We especially loved feeding ducks at toan ton restaurant, the tam coc boat ride was also close by. We took electric taxis everywhere and the owner is super friendly and nice. We didn't cycle or take scooters as we had two babies with us Rooms are clean but toilets are poorly ventilated.

Such an amazing experience! They really take care of guests so gently and thoughtfully, and the rooms are beautiful and spacious. I just left and I'm already missing it so much, I want to go back! Even though it's a bit far from the city center, staying here is totally worth it. It's so chill and I love it so much! 🩷🩷🩷

We had a wonderful stay over the Tet holiday. The hotel is located in downtown Tam Coc but just off a small side street, so little to no street noise from the main road. The room was just as pictured, very spacious and welcoming. Kettle and fridge are provided. No tea or coffee in the room but available in the reception area. We had a mountain view and little balcony area where we could watch fireworks on Tet eve. Breakfast was made to order and there were many choices to pick from. We loved the omelette and baguette. The service and hospitality of the owners was amazing. Even though they had may guests, we still felt cared for. We were able to do laundry with them, they rented a scooter to us for 3 days and provided a nice map of the area with notable landmarks. We highly recommend staying here if you visit Ninh Binh.