I stayed at the Especen hotel in September, 2009, and picked it because Lonely Planet had highly recommended it. While it was on the budget side, the rooms were clean and large, and included a/c and a tv. I stayed in two different rooms, as I went to Halong Bay for a night, and the first room on the top... more

The room wasn't too bad although the hot water ran out in seconds. The main problem was that the staff tried to overcharge me. I would not recommend this hotel as they cannot be trusted. more

Located just a stones throw from St Josephs Cathedral in the old town this hotel is great if you are on a budget. The hotel staff are very friendly and the rooms are a good size and cleaned daily. Surrounded by numerous shops and restaurants everything that you need for a short stay in Hanoi is on your doorstep. If... more

My husband and I made reservation via email for this hotel a few weeks before we were to arrive in Hanoi. We wanted to be sure that we were not scammed when we got there, because we heard about all the issues with taxis and hotels. We also had the hotel arrange transportation from the airport. The taxi picked us... more

My wife and I traveled to and through Vietnam for three weeks in October. We stayed at the Especen for four nights in early October and had a great stay, the staff was very friendly and super helpful, they moved my motorbike in at night and out in the am, they let us leave an extra bag for a few... more

Since this hotel was "our pick" in the latest lonely planet I expected something more. The location is great, the rooms are nice and clean but the the staff seemed to be slightly confused and had a hard time remembering me, even though I talked to the same guys several times. They are'nt rude but not very personal either. I... more

We stayed here for one night after a couple of days spent at Halong Bay. The usual sales pitch ensued when we checked in to the hotel, but that is common of most hotels in Hanoi (trying to sell their own trips to travellers) unlike other hotels they accepted it when we said no. The room was clean tidy and... more

Whenever I am looking for a hotel in Hanoi or when people ask me for a recommendation I always say the Especen. It's tucked away in a back street but is just by the Cathedral. It's rooms are very large and absolutely spotlessly clean. Their WIFI is good too. Also their staff are very friendly. Considering the cost of the... more

Nice facilities, but one of more of the staff went into my bag and stole cash from my room while I was out for lunch. I stepped out for one hour when I came back my room had been made up, and my money taken from my bag. The staff gave me attitude when I reported this to them. Lock... more