It took more than 10 years for the relevant government permissions and building works to be completed on Hanoi’s latest luxury hotel, which is housed in a 1920s neoclassical pile. The results are a little mixed. But the Apricot still offers reliable service, comfortable rooms and an exciting location.
Location
The Apricot has a peach of a location in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Directly in front is Hoan Kiem Lake, a popular leisure spot where you’ll find couples canoodling on the banks and pensioners practicing tai chi in the shade of willow trees. The streets behind are packed with shops selling elegant lacquerwares, hand-crafted ornaments, top tailoring and souvenirs – bargains galore. It takes around 45 minutes to reach the hotel from the airport by car.
Style and Character
First impressions are good: white-gloved doormen, lashings of marble, glittering chandeliers. But on closer inspection, the Apricot falls somewhat short of the mark with its ostentatious reproduction furniture, plastic battery-operated candelabras and carpeting so garish it could induce a seizure. More than 600 works of contemporary Asian art are scattered throughout the hotel and are a genuinely interesting addition.
Service and Facilities
Service is pleasant and professional, if not completely polished. Amenities include a large rooftop swimming pool with wonderful views of Hoan Kiem Lake, a small fitness centre and a spa with three treatment rooms and steam and saunas facilities.
- Fitness centre
- Pool
- Restaurant
- Spa
- Steam room/hammam
Rooms
Of the 123 rooms, there are six different categories to opt for, from elfin boxes with courtyard views, to studio apartments with living rooms and kitchenettes, to the large Masterpiece suites overlooking the lake.
All are similarly decorated with an odd mixture of fresh white walls, frumpy furniture, tassled cushions, contemporary Vietnamese art and peculiar faux-antique telephones and trinkets. That said, the rooms are new-penny clean, the beds are good quality and the showers vigorous, so you’ll certainly feel comfortable if you can look past the offbeat interior design.
Food and Drink
You will only be served breakfast after having presented the hostess with a ration book-like voucher – far from a five-star experience. Once approved you are free to enjoy a fairly decent spread of hot and cold dishes, breads, pastries and local fare. Atelier restaurant obliges with a large menu of Vietnamese and international dishes, although there’s not a great deal of atmosphere. Afternoon tea is served in the lobby; and drinks and snacks are available at the rooftop bar.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
For any further information, kindly contact us at +84.936.600.886 or +84.946.762.224 for free guide.
