Saigon Luxury: FREE Pool & Gym, 3 Mins from Ben Thanh Market!
Saigon Luxury: FREE Pool & Gym - A Messy, Honest Dive In (3 Mins from Ben Thanh!)
Okay, buckle up, because Saigon Luxury…well, it's an experience. And trying to describe it? Feels a bit like trying to herd kittens. This review, my friends, is going to be less a perfectly polished diamond and more a slightly chipped, but still sparkly, stone. Prepare for rambles, opinions, and the occasional dramatic sigh.
Let's start with the headline – 3 Minutes from Ben Thanh Market?! They’re not lying. I walked… scrambled… to get there. Seriously, the location is gold. Right in the thick of it, dodging motorbikes like a pro (by day three, at least). That proximity practically screamed "instant pho fix!" or "emergency souvenir run!" and trust me, I took full advantage.
Accessibility: The Good, The… Confusing:
They say they have facilities for disabled guests. The elevator, check. But navigating the sheer STACK of humanity on the sidewalks in a wheelchair? Let's just say it's a workout. It's Vietnam, folks. Things aren't always picture-perfect ADA compliant. The hotel itself seemed okay, but the surrounding chaos? Be prepared. (I'm just spitballing here, I don’t use a wheelchair personally – but I did get overwhelmed by the sidewalk situation, so I'm imagining…)
Staying Clean & Safe (or Trying To!):
Look, the world is weird right now, and Saigon Luxury tries. They've got the:
- Anti-viral cleaning products: (smelled suspiciously of lemon, which I appreciate)
- Daily disinfection: (I saw someone aggressively wiping down the elevator buttons. That’s dedication!)
- Hand sanitizer: (everywhere! I felt like a gel-covered germaphobe by the time I checked out.)
- Staff trained in safety protocol: (they seemed trained. Mostly.)
- Room sanitization opt-out available: (good for the eco-conscious, or the just-lazy-and-don't-care-about-germs!)
- Rooms sanitized between stays: (hmmm… felt clean enough. I didn’t get sick. That's a win!)
The real test? That goddamn kettle. That’s ALWAYS where the lurking threat of grime hides. Did I boil my water? Yes. Did I check the kettle? No. Regrets. I have a few…
Dining, Drinking, & Snacking: Food, Glorious Food (with a side of “Where’s the Toilet?”):
Okay, the food situation. This is where things get… interesting.
Restaurants, Restaurants, Restaurants!: (plural! That’s promising!)
- A la carte in restaurant: (Yesss. Freedom of breakfast choice!)
- Asian breakfast: (I’m a sucker for Pho, so this was a big win)
- Asian cuisine in restaurant: (duh!)
- International cuisine in restaurant: (Hey, I enjoyed a pizza…don't judge me.)
- Western breakfast: (the bacon was… passable. Let's leave it at that.)
Room Service: (24-hour! Glory be!) I ordered at 3 AM craving some noodles… it was a magical, late-night experience. I'm NOT sure what I ate because… well, 3 AM but it was glorious.
The Coffee Shop: (good coffee. I NEEDED that!)
Poolside Bar: (I spent WAY too much time here. The cocktails were… potent.)
Buffet in restaurant: (I’m generally down with the breakfast buffet, even if I'm not actually hungry.)
The down side? Finding your way to the toilet was an adventure, especially after those potent poolside cocktails. The signage could have been better…
Those Glorious Amenities That Almost Redeem Everything:
- The Pool This is where the magic happens. Stunning views over the city. Yes, it's an "outdoor pool". Get over it or go home.
- The Gym You can't get away from the fitness center. Even I snuck in a workout or two. It's not the most high-tech, but it did the trick.
- Spa/Sauna The steamroom. Worth it. Get your sweat on and relax.
- The Massage: The best part of the hotel! Very professional, I fell fast asleep.
Internet & Entertainment (aka, Surviving the Digital Apocalypse):
- Free Wi-Fi: (in all rooms! Thank heavens!)
- Internet access – wireless: (check!)
- Internet access – LAN: (for the old-school gamers, or those with serious work to do)
- Satellite/cable channels: (perfect for vegging out after a day of motorbike dodging)
- On-demand movies: (because sometimes you just need a bad rom-com)
I needed to do serious work, and I could. I didn't have any problems at all.
Things To Do (besides eating):
Well, it's a hotel! They've got:
- Meeting/banquet facilities/Outdoor venue for special events** (So if you're feeling fancy…)
- Business facilities/Meetings**.
Things to do nearby:
- They don't list this, but… BEN THANH MARKET! (Did I mention it's three minutes away?!)
- Shrine (for a touch of culture)
- Gift/souvenir shop.
The Rooms: A Mixed Bag (like my luggage):
- Air conditioning: (essential)
- Blackout curtains: (life-saving, especially after those poolside cocktails!)
- Daily housekeeping: (THANK YOU!)
- Free bottled water: (hydration is key!)
- In-room safe box: (for my passport and the questionable amount of cash I was carrying)
- Non-smoking: (thank god!)
- Coffee/tea maker: (because I can't function without coffee)
- Mini bar: (tempting, but I mostly stuck to the water)
- Seating area: (to collapse in after a day of adventures)
- Shower: (and no bathtub, sadly)
- Wake-up service: (which I desperately needed)
The decor? Let's just say it's… functional. The bed was comfortable enough. The view? Meh. But hey, you're in Saigon! You're not there to stare at the walls.
Services & Conveniences: The Good, The Bad, & The "Where's My Laundry?":
- Concierge: (helpful, but occasionally flustered)
- 24-hour front desk: (essential)
- Doorman: (always a nice touch)
- Elevator: (vital!)
- Laundry service: (needed!)
- Dry cleaning: (for the fancy stuff)
- Currency exchange: (helpful)
- Cash withdrawal: (even more helpful)
- Airport transfer: (worth it, trust me)
- Luggage storage: (thank you!)
- Smoking area: (thank god)
The Imperfections:
- The staff were generally friendly, but communication was… variable. English proficiency ranged from excellent to "look! I have a phone…Google Translate?"
- The soundproofing could be better. I heard a LOT of motorbikes and the occasional late-night revelry from other guests. So, bring earplugs.
- The breakfast buffet got a little repetitive after a few days.
- The lack of information on things such as the lack of pets allowed.
Overall:
Saigon Luxury? It's not perfect. It's a little rough around the edges. But it's clean, it's convenient, and the pool is pure bliss. And that proximity to Ben Thanh Market? Worth it. If you're looking for luxury, go somewhere else. If you're looking for a functional, well-located base of operations in the heart of Saigon with a great pool and gym, definitely consider it. I'd give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars. Because let’s be honest, nothing is ever perfect. And that's part of the charm, isn't it? Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a craving for Pho…
Mayers Waldhorn: Tübingen or Reutlingen? Uncover the Secret Gem!Alright, buckle up buttercups, 'cause this ain't your grandma's travel itinerary. We're diving headfirst into the Saigon swamp (metaphorically, mostly… though who knows what lurks in the sewers?) and it's gonna be a glorious, chaotic mess. This is less a rigid schedule, more a suggestion box filled with potential disasters and the occasional moment of pure zen.
SAIGON! (RiverGate, Baby!) - Chaos Level: High. Coffee Dependency: Critical.
Day 1: Arrival & Sensory Overload (aka, "Where's My Luggage? Seriously?!")
- Morning (or, What Time Did My Flight Actually Land?): Landed in Saigon, Vietnam. The humidity hits you like a warm, sweaty hug. Immigration was surprisingly smooth, except for the minor heart attack when I thought my passport was missing. Turns out, it was just chilling in my jacket pocket. Phew. Luggage carousel… well, let's just say it's a battle of wits. Eventually, my bag, looking thoroughly abused, pops out. Success!
- Check-in at the RiverGate Residence (3 minutes from Ben Thanh, yesss!): Finding this place… Let's just say Google Maps enjoys misleading tourists. Finally, after an exhilarating scooter taxi ride (seriously, it's like a video game – avoid the cows, the toddlers, the grandmothers), I crashed into the lobby. The apartment is… okay. Clean-ish. The view is killer though. That makes up for the slightly questionable decor (think: hotel art from the 90s meets a disco ball’s discarded dreams).
- Afternoon: Ben Thanh Market - Smell, Sound, and Sudden Panic: Ben Thanh Market. OH. MY. GOD. The sights! The smells! The sheer volume of stuff! I get lost in a sea of knockoff handbags and silk scarves. I bargain for a ridiculously cheap straw hat. Suddenly, I'm convinced I'm going to get ripped off and start to sweat. I decide to just wander, soaking it all in. I buy some incredibly spicy pho from a street vendor, accidentally burn my tongue, but it's delicious. It's an experience, a glorious sensory explosion. My credit card is screaming, but I'm in heaven.
- Evening: Street Food Frenzy & The Taxi Scam (Maybe): Evening approaches! and I think I'll try some street food. The "bun cha" (grilled pork with noodles) is divine, greasy, and utterly amazing. I find a little place tucked away, where everyone on the streets comes together. I'm starting to feel that Saigon is an explosion of taste. I feel a weird sense of community, with a language barrier being the only thing standing between us. After dinner, I flag down a taxi. The meter seems to be running at warp speed. I'm suspicious, but I'm too tired to argue. The cab driver takes the opportunity and overcharges me. Note to self: Get a Grab app (the local Uber) ASAP.
Day 2: Culture Shock (and Pool Day!)
- Morning: Coffee, Chaos, and a Motorbike Apocalypse: Woke up. Coffee from the little cafe downstairs. Stronger than rocket fuel. Essential. Attempted to cross the street. It's like Frogger, but with motorbikes. I'm pretty sure I blacked out for a few crucial seconds. Somehow, I survived.
- Brunch: The best Pho so far and a tiny street cafe: My stomach is still recovering from yesterday, but I was determined to try another Vietnamese dish. I searched around until I found another Pho joint. I'm not sure if it was the authenticity, the ingredients, or the chef that made it so amazing, but I can't stop thinking about it.
- Afternoon: Pool Time & Existential Dread: Free pool at RiverGate! Finally, a moment of peace. I'm pretty sure I spent an hour just floating, staring up at the sky, trying to unravel the mysteries of the universe. Or maybe just avoiding my emails. The sun is brutal, even in the shade. Sunscreen is essential.
- Evening: Postcard and a "Saigon Sunset": I found a quaint little shop. I decided to invest in some postcards, hoping that I can send them to my friends. I'm not even sure I'll be able to find a postage stamp, but I hope for the best. I go back to the apartment, and catch the Saigon sunset - a hazy, pink, and orange affair over the city. It's almost enough to make me forgive the taxi scam.
Day 3: History, Haggling, and The End is Nigh (Traveler's Edition)
- Morning: War Remnants Museum & Emotional Overload (The heavy-duty stuff): The War Remnants Museum. This is a tough one. The exhibits are raw, powerful, and deeply affecting. It's a necessary visit, a reminder of the cost of war. I felt a lump in my throat for most of it. Leave time to process. Don't rush.
- Lunch: More Pho: I need comfort food. More Pho it is! This time, I'm going to find the ultimate bowl. The quest begins.
- Afternoon: Jade Emperor Pagoda followed by a Bargaining Marathon: The Jade Emperor Pagoda. Incense smoke, intricate carvings, and a sense of peace amidst the chaos. A beautiful respite. Time to channel my inner badass negotiator at the markets. Bring your A-game, and your best poker face. I ended up buying a silk dress for way too much, only to realize later it had a hole in it. Ah, well. Story of my life.
- Evening: Rooftop Drinks & The Real Saigon: Find a rooftop bar with a view. Watch the city lights twinkle. Sip a cocktail. Contemplate the fact that I only have a few days left.
Day 4: Day Trip Gone Slightly Wrong & Farewell Feast
- Morning: Cu Chi Tunnels (or, Almost Got Claustrophobic): Day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Crawling through the narrow passages was an experience, a glimpse into the ingenuity and resilience of the Vietnamese people during the war. Almost had a panic attack in one of the tunnels, but managed to claw my way out. Respect.
- Lunch: Picnic gone wrong: I thought I could set the mood by preparing a picnic. I bought some fruits and bread, excited to enjoy it in the garden. But when I opened it, there were ants everywhere. I had to throw the whole thing away.
- Afternoon: Back in Saigon - A bit lost and a lot hot: After getting back, I felt lost and disoriented. I tried to just walk around and explore, but the heat was unbearable. I head back to the apartment to take a nap.
- Evening: Farewell Feast & The "I'm Never Leaving" Feeling: One last amazing meal. A fantastic Vietnamese restaurant. Every bite is a memory in the making. I tried to cherish every moment. The food, the company, the whole experience. I have the "I never wanna leave" feeling.
Day 5: Departure & The Saigon Hangover (Emotional & Physical)
- Morning: Goodbyes & Last-Minute Souvenir Panic: Early morning. Packing. Trying to cram everything back into my suitcase. Where did all this stuff come from?! Last-minute souvenir hunt for my friends. Found some cool stuff at the airport gift shop.
- Departure: The plane takes off. The feeling of sadness sinks in.
Final Thoughts:
Saigon is a rollercoaster. It's loud, it's crowded, it's intense. But it's also captivating, delicious, and deeply moving. It's a place that will wear you out, frustrate you, and occasionally leave you feeling utterly bewildered. But it will also fill your heart, your stomach, and your camera roll. Embrace the chaos. Get lost. Eat the pho (all the pho!). And for the love of all that is holy, watch out for those motorbikes.
This is not a perfect itinerary. It's not even a good itinerary in many ways. It's my itinerary. And it's a reflection of a trip that was messy, glorious, and utterly unforgettable.
**Escape to Paradise: Hotel Goldinger, Germany's Hidden Gem**
Okay, is this Saigon Luxury place *really* luxurious? Like, REALLY? Because I've seen the pictures…
Alright, let's be real. "Luxury" in Southeast Asia is a different *animal* than, say, the Burj Al Arab. Saigon Luxury? It's... pleasant. The photos are, shall we say, *optimistic*. I mean, the lobby glitters, sure, but the air-con might sound like a dying walrus. My first impression? "Okay, not *bad*. Not. Bad."
The pool? Gorgeous. The pictures don’t lie there. Big, clean, and actually swimmable (unlike some hotel pools I've braved, which felt like glorified bacteria farms). Spent a whole afternoon there, escaping the Saigon heat. Pure bliss. Until a rogue water balloon fight broke out, involving a group of overly enthusiastic kids and a very splash-averse me. Note to self: wear goggles.
Three minutes from Ben Thanh Market? Is that just marketing fluff? Because I've got a bad history with "5-minute walks..."
Okay, this is where Saigon Luxury *actually* delivers. Three minutes? More like… four, maybe five, if you're dawdling and admiring the street food (which, let's be honest, you *will* be). Seriously, you cross a road, navigate a sea of motorbikes, and BAM! You're in fragrant, chaotic, delicious Ben Thanh Market heaven.
I went there at least twice a day. Coffee in the morning, souvenirs in the afternoon, a quick *banh mi* for a late-night snack (the best decision I've ever made). It's seriously convenient. This alone makes the hotel a winner in my book. Saves on those crippling taxi fares, believe me!
The FREE Gym and Pool – What's the *real* story? Are they usable, or just for show?
Right, the gym. Okay. Let's be brutally honest here. It’s not the *biggest* gym you'll ever see. But it's clean, it has treadmills (essential!), some weights, and, crucially, *air conditioning that actually works*. I saw a few people in there, all seemingly serious about their fitness. Now, me? I mostly wandered in, glanced around, took a deep breath, and then promptly left to refill my water bottle for more pool time. Hey, I consider walking around Ben Thanh Market a workout.
And let's rewind to the pool! *The* Pool. Seriously. It's like a tropical oasis in the middle of the city. I spent *hours* there. But there was this *one* day...I went in to discover that some construction worker had dropped his tools and was now swimming with them and I was mortified. So take any experience with a grain of salt.
What about the rooms? Are they modern? Clean? Do they have, you know, *all* the things?
The rooms themselves… they are what you'd expect, honestly. Clean, which is the most important thing. The decor is... functional. Not exactly the kind of thing you'd find in a design magazine, but perfectly, perfectly adequate. The air con worked (thank heavens!), the bed was comfy, and the bathroom was clean, which, honestly, is all I ask for. The TV was tiny but had (thank GOD) HBO.
One tiny gripe – the Wi-Fi was occasionally temperamental. But hey, that gives you a legitimate excuse to look up from your phone and, oh, I don't know, *actually* enjoy being in Vietnam! And the view from my room was... well, it was a cityscape. Not the Eiffel Tower, but perfectly fine. I saw the sun rise every morning from that hotel room. I'd do it again.
Is the staff friendly? Dealing with hotel staff can be a gamble, right?
The staff?! Okay, they're lovely. Genuinely, genuinely lovely. Always smiling, always helpful, always going out of their way to try and understand my broken Vietnamese (which, let’s be honest, is mostly just pointing and gesturing). Check-in was a breeze, they helped to book a tour, and they even managed to get me extra towels when I requested them. No complaints whatsoever. The only problem? They were *too* nice. I felt guilty for anything I said I didn't like.
Okay, be honest. Would you stay there again? And if not, WHY?!
Absolutely, without a doubt, I would. I *loved* Saigon Luxury. The location is unbeatable, the pool is incredible, the staff are wonderful, and the rooms are perfectly fine. It's not the most luxurious hotel in the world, but it's comfortable, convenient, and a great base for exploring the craziness and wonder that is Ho Chi Minh City.
I would probably go again if I were alone. If I was going with friends? Well, that would depend if my friends were as easily pleased as I am. But the pool is gorgeous. Seriously. And the location is perfect. And the *banh mi*... oh god, the *banh mi*…
