Vietnam for Easter

Posted by metonaboat (689 days ago)

I am thinking of going to Vietnam for Easter 2007. Would like to go for about 2 weeks. Thinking of 4 days in Hanoi, 1-2 in Halong Bay, then going for a nice beach vacation. We will be taking our 16 month old. Have a few questions:
-Any recommendations for hotels in Hanoi?
-Thinking about hiring a private overnight boat for Halong Bay but some have said it isn't worth it with a toddler, the boats are not nice. Is this true?
-Would a day trip be better?
-What are the best beaches in Vietnam for families? Any hotel recommendations for the beach? We are looking to relax a lot but also like a nice town for dining and strolling through.

(I am based in Hong Kong)

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Posted by Oceanview (686 days ago)

I wouldn't recommend Halong Bay with 16 mo. old. Views are spectacular but the boat is not a 5 star cruise. I saw roaches in the cabin. Hanoi has many 5 stat hotels. We stayed in Hilton and it was okay. Heard that Metropole is the best.

(I am based in Singapore)

Posted by ldldjr (682 days ago)

Metropole has the nicest location (by my way of thinking). As for roaches, one may see them anywhere, unless the locality has become a pest-free zone because of heavy pesticide use - "choose your poison", roaches or perfumed pesticies. I guess Halong Bay with a 16 month old depends on what you are looking for - to see Halong Bay, or .....

(I am based in Vietnam)

Posted by Ruth at Clifford (682 days ago)

Have a look at www.handspan.com They were very helpful and their boats were very nice to Ha Long Bay. Also, suggest going to Hoi An.

(I am based in Guangzhou)

Posted by metonaboat (676 days ago)

Thanks everyone for the replies. I think we will probably just go for it with the toddler and Halong Bay. We really want to see it. I will decide after talking with a travel agent if we should do overnight or not. Most other nights of our trip we can stay in beautiful accommodations, so one night won't kill us.

(I am based in Hong Kong)

Posted by crystal (646 days ago)

Metropole hotel in Hanoi is wonderful and good location. Make sure the hotel has completed their renovations though.
Taking a toddler on the overnight boat not recommended especially if they are wandering on deck. The deck railings are a safety hazard and in one second and they can jump overboard and sometimes the boats have steep stairs to the cabins. I would also check out the food for baby as they tend to serve mainly seafood on the boats. The streets in Hanoi are not pram friendly either and they are uneven!! A sling is more appropriate. In my opinion not the best destination for toddlers if you want a relaxed holiday.

(I am based in Hong Kong)