Vietnam - Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Northern Thailand - page 345

SURVIVAL GUIDE
Directory A-Z
ACCOMMODATION
In general, accommodation in Vietnam offers superb value for money and excellent facilit-
ies. In big cities and the main tourism centres you'll find everything from hostel dorm beds
to uber-luxe hotels. Cleanliness standards are generally good and there are very few real
dumps.
Most hotels in Vietnam quote prices in Vietnamese dong and/or US dollars. Prices are
quoted in dong or dollars in reviews in this topic based on the preferred currency of the
particular property.
Hostel dorm beds (around US$4 to US$7) are usually the cheapest options, but these
only exist in a few backpacker centres such as Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC),
Hue and Hanoi. Family-run guesthouses are great value; they often have private bathrooms
and room rates range from US$8 to US$20. A step up from the guesthouses, minihotels
typically come with more amenities, such as satellite TV.
When it comes to midrange places, flash a bit more cash and three-star touches are avail-
able, such as chic decor or access to a swimming pool.
At the top end you'll find everything from faceless but comfortable business hotels to
colonial places resonating with history and lovely boutique hotels.
Be aware that some hotels apply a 10% sales tax. Check carefully before taking a room
to avoid any unpleasant shocks on departure.
Accommodation is at a premium during Tet (Vietnamese New Year; late January or early
February), when the whole country is on the move and overseas Vietnamese flood back in-
to the country. Prices can rise by 25% or more. Christmas and New Year represent another
high season.
Homestays
Homestays are popular in parts of Vietnam. Often the accommodation is in a long-house or
communal space with people sleeping on roll-up mattresses.
Areas that are well set up include the Mekong Delta, the White Thai villages of Mai
Chau, Ba Be and the Cham Islands.