Saigon Royal Hostel: District 12's BEST Kept Secret (Ho Chi Minh City)
Saigon Royal Hostel: District 1's Best Kept Secret? More Like a Rollercoaster Ride of Awesome (and a Few Tiny Blips) - A Brutally Honest Review
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I’m about to spill the tea on the Saigon Royal Hostel. Forget those polished, PR-approved reviews – this is the real deal, warts and all. I just spent a week there, and let me tell you, it was… an experience.
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First off, let's address the elephant in the room: Is it REALLY best kept secret? Well, the location in District 12 is a bit off the beaten path, so there's definitely a "hidden gem" vibe. It felt a world away from the chaos of District 1, which, honestly, was a welcome respite. Transport? Easy peasy. Airport transfer was smooth, and the hostel staff happily arranged taxis whenever I needed. Car park [free of charge] is a bonus if you're zipping around on a scooter, which, let's be honest, is the best way to explore this city.
Accessibility: Okay, this is where things get a little… complicated. They advertise Facilities for disabled guests, and I saw an elevator. However, details beyond are a bit slim. I didn't personally need wheelchair access, but I'd recommend checking with them directly if that's a primary concern. Accessibility might need a little tweaking.
Getting Settled In - The Rooms & Creature Comforts
My room? A delightful little box of joy. Okay, “box” is slightly unkind. It was compact but clean, with air conditioning that blasted ice-cold relief after a sweaty day. The bed was comfy, and the blackout curtains were a lifesaver for sleeping off the jet lag. Free Wi-Fi worked like a charm (bless you, Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!), and the air conditioning was a godsend after a day of exploring. The mini-bar? Well-stocked, although the prices weren't exactly budget-friendly. Did I use it? Maybe…
The bathroom was functional with hot water, and the shower pressure was… adequate. Don’t expect a spa experience, but it got the job done. They provide the basics, which is all you really need. Additional toilet made everything smoother in groups.
Safety and Cleanliness: A Shout Out to the Cleaning Crew
This is where Saigon Royal really shines. Cleanliness and safety are clearly a priority. I'm naturally a bit of a germaphobe, and I was genuinely impressed. Hand sanitizer was readily available everywhere. Daily disinfection in common areas and rooms sanitized between stays gave me serious peace of mind. The staff seemed to constantly be cleaning. The staff seemed trained and aware of safety protocol and made it a goal to be a part of it. I appreciated the individually-wrapped food options. While the Physical distancing of at least 1 meter wasn’t always strictly enforced by fellow guests (let's be honest, it's kind of a lost cause in a hostel!), the staff did their best. CCTV in common areas and outside property provided an extra layer of security. I was never felt unsafe.
Let's Talk About the Food (and the Hangover Cure!)
Okay, the Restaurant situation… chef's kiss. The Asian breakfast, which was included, was a game-changer. Think steaming bowls of pho, fresh fruit, and strong Vietnamese coffee. The A la carte in restaurant was good too, with a focus on local dishes and some western options. I took advantage of the Breakfast takeaway service more than once, grabbing a quick bite before heading out to explore. They do a buffet in restaurant for special occasions, but I missed it.
My Favorite Experience: Seriously. After a particularly raucous night at the Bar (Happy hour was a MUST), I stumbled into the Coffee shop the next morning, utterly destroyed. I ordered a strong coffee and the biggest bowl of pho I could find. It was a literal redemption arc. The soup was magic, clearing away the fog and bringing me back to life! I also had a Bottle of water, which felt like a gift from the gods. I love that they are there to ease your pain.
Things to Do, Ways to Unwind, or That Time I Almost Got Lost in the Spa
The hostel has some amazing spa facilities. The pool with view was the perfect place to unwind after a long day dodging motorbikes. They even have a Steamroom. I spent a good portion of a lazy afternoon lounging by the pool with a book. The Foot bath and the massage options were tempting, but I didn’t indulge (budget constraints, folks!).
Services and Conveniences: The Good, The Okay, and the "Hmm…"
The Concierge was helpful with booking tours and providing information. Luggage storage was great for after check-out. The laundry service was a lifesaver (hello, sweaty clothes!). Cash withdrawal was a pain, as there aren’t many ATMs nearby, so I recommend getting cash before you arrive. Contactless check-in/out was brilliant. The daily housekeeping did a great job keeping the place tidy.
For the Kids (and the Kid in You)
They're Family/child friendly, and if you have kids, you'll enjoy the facilities. I'm a grown adult, but I did appreciate that they had a pool and a kids meal on the menu.
The Little Quirks and Random Thoughts
- The decor? A bit dated, with some… interesting design choices. But hey, it adds character!
- The staff was incredibly friendly and genuinely seemed to care about their guests. Always helpful and smiling.
- I didn’t notice any pets allowed.
- The non-smoking rooms are a major plus.
- The elevator was slow, but I wasn't in a hurry, so it was fine.
- The soundproofing could be better, particularly in rooms near the common areas.
The Verdict: Worth it?
Absolutely. Saigon Royal Hostel isn't perfect, but it's a fantastic value for the price. It's clean, safe, the staff is lovely, and the location, while a bit out of the way, offers a more authentic experience. So yes, it's worth seeking out. Sure, it has a few quirks, but that's what makes it memorable. Just go, and prepare for a good time. You might discover your own best kept secret along the way, like that killer pho!
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Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving HEADFIRST into a Saigon adventure, leaving the polished brochure bullshit behind. This… this is my Saigon Royal Hostel itinerary. And let me tell you, it's gonna be glorious chaos.
Saigon Royal Hostel - My Saigon Fiasco: A Itinerary (Kinda)
(Day 1: Arrival & Sensory Overload – Buckle Up, Baby!)
- Morning (08:00 - 10:00): Arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN). Okay, first impression: HOT. Like, "sweat already dripping down my spine before I even see my luggage" hot. Immigration was a breeze, thankfully. Managed to find the airport taxi queue… and almost got ripped off. Seriously, the guy quoted me a price that made my wallet weep. Negotiated him DOWN. Victory! Felt like a seasoned traveler already.
- (10:00 - 11:00): Taxi to Saigon Royal Hostel (District 12 - pray for me, Google Maps!). The ride was…an experience. Motorbikes. Everywhere. Weaving, honking, carrying entire families, watermelons, and enough luggage to open a small shop. Honestly, it's like a ballet of insanity. I was clinging to the seat, eyes wide, mouth agape. This city is alive!
- (11:00 - 12:00): Check-in, drop my bags (and my expectations of a perfectly clean room – let’s be real, it's a hostel!), and take a DEEP breath. Saigon air? It smells like a symphony of spices, exhaust fumes, and…something indefinably delicious. I’m already in love.
- Lunch (12:00 - 14:00): Find a pho place. ANY pho place. I'm starving. The hostel staff recommended one a few blocks away. Walked there. Got slightly lost. Ended up in a tiny alleyway, surrounded by locals staring at me (probably thinking, "Another Lost Tourist"). Eventually, found it. The pho… oh god, the pho. The broth was an elixir, the noodles perfect, the beef melt-in-your-mouth. Best. Pho. EVER. And it cost, like, two dollars. I've already won at life.
- (14:00 - 16:00): Attempt to conquer the chaos that is Ben Thanh Market. Okay, "attempt" may be a strong word. More like, wandered around wide-eyed, overwhelmed by the sheer volume of stuff. Fake designer bags, knock-off watches, silk scarves in a rainbow of colors, and a cacophony of aggressive vendors yelling at me in Vietnamese. I'm pretty sure I accidentally bought a pair of sunglasses that are shaped like a cat. I'm calling it a cultural experience.
- (16:00 - 18:00): Explore the streets around District 1. Specifically, Ho Chi Minh City Hall. This really needs to be seen to be believed how beautiful it is.
- Evening (19:00 onwards): Drinks at a rooftop bar (saw recommendations for Chill Sky Bar, but maybe something a little more budget-friendly). Finding it might be a challenge – Saigon is a maze! - This is an adventure and I'll find it. Then, maybe, just maybe, a street food adventure. I've heard rumors of banh mi. Oh, and I need to find a massage place. My shoulders are already screaming from all the motorbikes.
(Day 2: Historical Hangover & Coffee Coma)
- Morning (09:00 - 12:00): War Remnants Museum. (Be warned, folks – this is heavy.) I’m a history nerd, so I knew I HAD to go. It's intense and, frankly, heartbreaking. Seeing the remnants of the war, the photos, the weapons… it’s a stark reminder of the brutality of conflict. Felt a deep sense of respect for the Vietnamese people. The stories of resilience, and the way they've rebuilt their nation, are truly inspiring.
- (12:00 - 13:00): Lunch. Needed comfort food after the museum. Found a small restaurant near the museum and had some delicious com tam (broken rice). The pork chop was perfectly charred, and the fish sauce… oh, the fish sauce. Again, dirt cheap and incredibly good.
- Afternoon (13:00 - 16:00): Cu Chi Tunnels – book a tour to see these historic tunnels. I imagine it'll be packed, and I'm not sure how claustrophobic I'll get, but, hey…adventure!
- (16:00 - 17:00): Coffee break! Saigon is ALL about the coffee. I’m talking, like, the BEST coffee in the world. Find a ca phe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk) and let the caffeine kick in. Needed! The tour will likely be exhausting.
- Evening (19:00 onwards): Back to the hostel. Hopefully, they have a common area. Chat to other backpackers. Do some writing. Or, I'll go for a late-night street food crawl. The allure of unknown flavours is irresistible!
(Day 3: Culture, Chaos, and Last-Minute Panic)
- Morning (09:00 - 12:00): Notre Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office. Beautiful buildings. The architecture is stunning. The Post Office is still working! Writing a postcard!
- Lunch (12:00 - 13:00): A quick bite to eat. Maybe some spring rolls. Definitely something light. Gotta be quick.
- Afternoon (13:00 - 16:00): The Reunification Palace, another must-see. Then, seriously, more shopping. I need souvenirs! The pressure is on!
- (16:00 - 17:00): Last-minute scramble. Pack my bags. Double check everything. Panic about forgetting something important. Feel the bittersweet sting of departure creeping in.
- Evening (18:00): Head to the airport.
- (21:00): The Flight!
(Observations, Ramblings & Imperfections…)
- The Motorbikes: They're everywhere! Every single one is a master class in urban survival. I'm pretty sure I could cross the road with my eyes closed by now.
- The Heat: It's brutal. Drink water. A lot of water. And sunscreen. More sunscreen.
- The Food: EVERYTHING is delicious. Don't be afraid to try things. You won't regret it.
- The Locals: They are incredibly kind and helpful. Even when I'm hopelessly lost and speaking in broken Vietnamese, they always smile and try to help.
- My Emotions: I miss home, but at the same time I don’t want to leave. A whirlwind of excitement, slight exhaustion, and a desire to soak it ALL in.
- Biggest Regret (so far): Not learning more Vietnamese phrases beforehand. I'm getting by on smiles and pointing, but it's just not the same as properly connecting with people.
- Quirky Note: I've developed an unhealthy obsession with the little plastic tables and chairs at street food stalls. They're so…cute.
Conclusion:
This is not a perfect itinerary. It’s not a guide to a "perfect trip." It's a messy, imperfect, real-life reflection of the experiences, the emotions, and the chaos that is Saigon. I’ve probably forgotten things, gotten lost, and probably spent way too much money on cat-shaped sunglasses, but it's been incredible… and I can't wait to go back. And maybe, next time, I'll learn a little Vietnamese.
Escape to Paradise: Tharapana Khaoyai Resort Awaits!
Saigon Royal Hostel: District 12's... *Okay, Maybe* Keep Secret? A Hot Mess of Answers (and Honestly, Mostly Opinions)
So, is this place *actually* the best? District 12 isn't exactly known for being a tourist mecca. What's the deal?
Look, "best" is subjective, okay? And District 12? Let's just say it's... *authentically Vietnamese*. Don't go expecting the glitz of District 1. You're not getting rooftop bars and fancy cocktails here. What you *do* get at Saigon Royal is a genuinely welcoming vibe. Think more "family's welcoming you into their home" than "slick corporate hospitality." It *can* be the best if you're looking for that. If you're the type who likes getting lost in the back alleys, eating amazing street food for pennies, and chatting with locals who *aren't* trying to sell you something, then yeah, it's pretty darn good. I'm not saying it's the Ritz, but for the price? For *that* experience? Definitely worth it.
Room sizes and amenities: What am I *actually* getting? Pictures can be deceiving.
Right, let's be real. You're not getting a massive suite. Rooms are… cozy. Think functional more than luxurious. There's AC (a lifesaver!), and the beds are generally clean and comfortable. Don't expect a 5-star spa bath. You'll probably get a basic en-suite, and the water pressure? Well, let’s just say a trickle is sometimes more accurate. Seriously though, I stayed once and the water pressure was like… a polite suggestion of a shower! But you know what? You're spending the whole day exploring anyway. It's about the experience, man! And, the wifi is solid! Always a win.
The Location: District 12 is… far, right? What's around?
Okay, let's not sugarcoat it: you are *not* within stumbling distance of the tourist hotspots. District 12 is a bit out there. Getting to District 1 (the main tourist area) will take a bus, a Grab (the local Uber), or maybe even a taxi, and you'll be looking at an hour’s ride. This is perfect if you want peace and quiet; a total nightmare if you want to be right in the thick of things. That said, the upside is the local life. Amazing street food! Seriously, *the food* is worth the trip alone. You'll find tiny family-run restaurants, bustling markets, and a chance to experience the *real* Vietnam, not just the sanitized version for tourists.
Food, Glorious Food! What about breakfast? Is it any good?
Breakfast... Okay, this is a bit of a mixed bag. Sometimes it's *amazing*. Fresh fruit, maybe some pho (Vietnamese noodle soup!), and decent coffee. Sometimes… it's a little less… inspired. Think instant noodles and a slightly stale bread roll. (I'm not kidding! I got that once!). It really depends on the cook that day, and honestly, you’re in Vietnam! Half the fun is wandering out and grabbing a *banh mi* (Vietnamese sandwich) a few steps away. Don't get hung up on the breakfast. Embrace the adventure!
Is it Quiet? I need my beauty sleep, dammit!
This is another... *it depends* situation. The hostel itself is generally pretty quiet, but remember you're in Vietnam. Motorbikes are a constant symphony (or a chaotic cacophony, depending on your mood). You'll probably hear them, and you might get a bit of building noise during business hours of the area since it's in a dense living district. Bring earplugs if you're a light sleeper. But honestly, you're gonna be so tired from exploring, you might sleep through a marching band. And I say this from experience. I was dead tired and I slept like a log... even after all the noise I mentioned earlier! It just depends
The staff: Are they helpful? Do they speak English?
The staff are lovely. Honestly. They're incredibly friendly and genuinely want you to enjoy your stay. English varies – some staff members are fluent, others less so. But they'll try their best to help you, and that matters. They're always happy to offer tips on where to eat, what to see, how to get around. I remember one time, I was *completely* lost trying to navigate the bus system (which is a story for another day – absolute chaos and I loved it!). This wonderful woman from the front desk practically drew me a map, even circled the essential spots for me and the locations marked in the local language! They really did go above and beyond. It’s the thing that makes it special. Don't be afraid to ask for help; they'll be patient and kind (even if your Vietnamese is as terrible as mine).
Value for Money: Is it actually cheap?
Oh, absolutely! Saigon Royal Hostel is seriously good value. You're getting a clean, comfortable place to sleep, a friendly atmosphere, and the chance to experience a side of Vietnam that most tourists miss. You won't get the bells and whistles of a fancy hotel, but you *will* get an authentic experience, and that's priceless. Even better, you can get a decent room for next to nothing -- which is a bonus when you're on a backpacking and budget-concerned journey! Honestly, I'd pay double what they were charging for the experience. Which, of course, I didn't... but I would have!
Anything I should REALLY be aware of before booking? Any horror stories?
Okay, a word of warning: District 12 is not designed for the faint of heart, or the comfort-obsessed. It's a bit raw, a bit chaotic, and a world away from the curated experiences you'll find in the tourist zones. You might encounter some… let’s call them *minor* inconveniences. Power outages are possible (though rare), the internet isn't always lightning fast, and the street noise can be a bit much at times. (I mentioned the motorbikes, right? They're relentless!). Also, it is a bit further from the main sights in Ho Chi Minh City than other hostels. If you're expecting an easy vacation, this might not be the place for you. But if you’re looking for an adventure? A chance to truly immerse yourself in the local culture? Then book it. Embrace the chaos. You'll have a much better story to tell, and remember to pack your earplugs!
