Luxury Poolside Studio in Ho Chi Minh City: Ben Thanh & Rivergate Views!
Review: Luxury Poolside Studio in Ho Chi Minh City: Ben Thanh & Rivergate Views! - Buckle Up, Buttercups!
Okay, so, picture this: I'm in Ho Chi Minh City. The heat's already got me sweating like a pig at a barbecue, and I'm thirsty for a good time. Found this "Luxury Poolside Studio" and, well, let's just say it wasn't all luxury and sunshine, but hey, where's the fun in perfect, right? Buckle up, because this review is gonna be messier than a street food stall after a scooter rally.
First Impressions - The Good, The Okay, and the… Did I Just See That?
Right off the bat, the views? Stunning. Ben Thanh Market sparkling in the distance, the Saigon River shimmering… Forget the city noise for a sec, it's all postcard-worthy. Then you walk in, and… it’s clean. Like, seriously clean. Makes you feel a little more okay about flinging yourself onto the bed after a day of dodging motorbikes (which, let's be real, is my primary hobby in Vietnam). The place is spacious, and hey, having a whole Air Conditioning unit that actually works? That's a win in my book!
Accessibility & Safety - Trying to Be a Good Citizen (and Avoiding a Lawsuit)
Listen, I'm not using a wheelchair, but I did notice the Elevator and Facilities for disabled guests, which is fantastic. Makes me feel like they're trying to be inclusive, which is cool. They have the standard CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside property, so you feel safe… right? The Security [24-hour] seemed pretty vigilant. I didn’t try to break in, so, you know… I’m assuming it's good. Also, the Fire extinguisher, Smoke alarms, and Smoke detectors made me breathe easier since I'm a terrible cook, and I might accidentally set off the fire alarm. The place also has exterior corridors, which I'm not the biggest fan of, but it's a city hotel, and those are pretty common.
Hygiene & Cleanliness - The Sanitizing Saga
Right, so, one thing Vietnam has nailed is hygiene during, and after, the pandemic – well, most of the time. This place seems to have gotten the memo. They seem to have Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and the whole nine yards. I mean, they even had Hand sanitizer everywhere. Bless them. Rooms sanitized between stays too. The Room sanitization opt-out available is a nice touch, shows they care about, like, individual preference. The Professional-grade sanitizing services feel like they were really trying. Also, Hot water linen and laundry washing seemed to be in operation, based on the freshness of the towels.
Internet & Tech - Let's Get Connected (or Try to)
Free Wi-fi in all rooms! Yay! Internet access – wireless. So, I’m thinking, "Okay, I can finally upload those embarrassing photos of myself eating a Banh Mi (again)." The wifi… was, let’s say, uneven. One minute streaming Netflix, the next buffering like I'm back in the dial-up dark ages. But hey, Internet access – LAN is there if you're feeling nostalgic. I can't say I tried the Internet [LAN] specifically. Now, the Laptop workspace and Desk were appreciated. Good for planning my next food adventure! There’s also a Bathroom phone, but I wouldn’t try calling anyone, and the Audio-visual equipment for special events were a bonus, but I was too busy eating Pho to throw a party.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax - Poolside Paradise… Maybe
The Swimming pool [outdoor] IS freaking gorgeous. That’s a definite highlight. Pool with view. It's perfect for Instagram, or just staring at the city with, like, a tiny umbrella drink in hand. Sadly, the Poolside bar was closed some of the time I wanted it open. Bummer. Not much in the way of ways to relax beyond the pool, that I could see. No on-site spa, but hey, Vietnam has spas everywhere. Trust me. I didn’t try the Fitness center. I sweat enough just walking to the convenience store. Shudders
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking - Food Glorious Food (and the Occasional Disappointment)
Alright, this is where things get… interesting. Restaurants are on the premises. Breakfast [buffet] is a thing. It's the usual mix of Asian and Western fare. I opted for the Asian breakfast, and it was…okay. Bottle of water is there, thank goodness. And they have a Coffee shop! Needed that. The Breakfast takeaway service wasn't bad, but wasn’t the best. The Poolside bar had that aforementioned closing problem. No Happy hour, which is a crime. I did get room service (24-hour!), which I definitely needed after a late, ahem, evening out. And there’s a Snack bar. So, you won’t starve. The A la carte in restaurant wasn't bad. The Buffet in restaurant was what you think it is. The Coffee/tea in restaurant was pretty average. Otherwise, the Asian cuisine in restaurant was better than the Western cuisine in restaurant, which was… well, I’ve had better.
Services and Conveniences - The Little Things That Matter (Sometimes)
The Doorman was friendly. The Concierge was helpful. The Daily housekeeping kept the place sparkling. The Laundry service was a lifesaver (especially after a particularly messy bowl of Bun Bo Hue). Luggage storage is a given. Cash withdrawal available. The Currency exchange was useful (though try to get a good rate!). The Cashless payment service too - a big plus. The Gift/souvenir shop was… pretty standard. Front desk [24-hour] is essential. They also had that Doctor/nurse on call, which always feels comforting, even if you don't need it.
Available in All Rooms - The Bare Necessities (and Some Extras)
Air conditioning that actually works? Check. Air conditioning in public area? Check. The Bathrobes? Fancy. Bathroom phone? Odd, but okay. Blackout curtains? Crucial for avoiding the inferno outside. Coffee/tea maker? Necessary for survival. Complimentary tea? I'm obsessed. Daily housekeeping? Love it. Desk? Good. Free bottled water? Always. Hair dryer? Yes! In-room safe box? Secure! Internet access – wireless? Yay! Ironing facilities? Helpful. Laptop workspace? Convenient. Linens? Clean. Mini bar? Cool. Non-smoking? Good. Private bathroom? Essential. Refrigerator? Always welcome. Satellite/cable channels? Fine. Seating area? Nice. Separate shower/bathtub? Luxurious. Shower? Obviously. Slippers? Cozy. Smoke detector? Safe. Socket near the bed? Genius. Soundproofing? Awesome. Telephone? Classic. Toiletries? Useful! Towels? Soft. Umbrella? Useful. Wake-up service? Needed. Wi-Fi [free]? Necessary.
For the Kids and Everyone Else - The Extras (and the Lack Thereof)
They have Babysitting service, not really my area. Family/child friendly? Seemed like it. No Pets allowed, which is fine with me. Car park [free of charge]? Bonus. Car park [on-site]? Also good.
Cleanliness and Safety - The Fine Print
Sanitized kitchen and tableware items - great. Individually-wrapped food options - smart. The Safe dining setup was reassuring. Plus, the Staff trained in safety protocol. The First aid kit is there if you have too much Pho. The Hygiene certification is a good sign, at least.
The Quirky Stuff (The "Real" Stuff)
- Room decorations: Not overly exciting. Basic, really.
- Proposal spot: Not sure, but maybe the poolside? I'll stick to eating Pho.
- Couple's room: shrugs Why not?
- Additional toilet: Did not see.
The Verdict - Should You Book It?
Okay, so, is the Luxury Poolside Studio in Ho Chi Minh City a perfect, five-star experience? Nah. But is it a solid choice for a city adventure? Absolutely. The view, the pool, the cleanliness, and the central location make it a winner.
**The Offer - My Crazy, Messy, Hilarious (and Honest) Takeaway
Stuttgart Airport Hotel: Unbeatable Rates & Luxury Near Messe!
Okay, buckle up Buttercup, because my "trip" to this… thing… in Vietnam, is gonna be a ride. We're talking B13.18 TrungHomeStudioRivergateBen ThanhPool. Sounds fancy, right? Let's see if reality matches the brochure. Here we go, my completely unreliable travel scribbles:
Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City – The Baptism by Humidity
- Morning (or what feels like morning after 20 hours of travel): Touchdown. Saigon. Or, as I immediately christened it, "Sweat-City." The moment you step off that plane, bam! The humidity hits you like a warm, damp, hug from an aggressive aunt. My hair immediately transformed into a frizz explosion. I spent a solid five minutes in baggage claim just trying to wrestle my suitcase off the carousel while simultaneously attempting to not drown in my own perspiration. Glamorous.
- Afternoon: Taxi to B13.18 TrungHomeStudioRivergate. The taxi driver, bless him, seemed to have a navigational system powered solely by instinct and sheer willpower. We dodged motorbikes (hundreds of them! They're like angry, buzzing bees), swerved around rogue potholes that could swallow a small car, and somehow, miraculously, arrived in one piece. The building itself…well, let's just say it's a testament to the power of air conditioning. Actually going in… and finding the right room number took me a solid 30 minutes, and two failed attempts to use the elevator!
- Evening: The apartment. Okay, it's… decent. The "studio" part is generous, more like a slightly oversized box. The "Rivergate" part? I'd need a snorkel to see the river from my window, but hey, the air conditioning is blasting, and that's the real MVP right now. Ate some instant noodles I snuck in my luggage because I am beyond exhausted just to have the microwave blow up and start smoking. It’s gonna be a fun trip
- Late Night: Attempted a swim in the "Pool." Let's just say the chlorine smell was stronger than the satisfaction. Also, I got yelled at for accidentally splashing some dude… who I suspect was judging me the whole time.
Day 2: Ben Thanh Market: Sensory Overload and Bargaining Mayhem!
- Morning: Decided to brave Ben Thanh Market. Prepare for sensory overload. Seriously. It's a symphony of smells (the good, the bad, and the "what the heck is that?!" moments), a kaleidoscope of colors, and the constant drone of bartering. I swear, the vendors have ESP. They know when you even think about buying something.
- Mid-day: The Art of the Bargain: I ended up buying a silk scarf, a hand-painted fan (that immediately broke… typical), and way too many bags. I’m not even sure what it is, but now I have it! The bartering was an experience. I felt like I was in a high-stakes poker game, but instead of chips, we were playing with Dong. I’ll never know if I got fleeced, but hey, at least I survived.
- Afternoon: Street Food Adventures (or Misadventures). Fueled by a newfound courage, I dove head-first into the street food scene. Pho? Delicious. Banh mi? Amazing. Mystery meat on a stick? ….Okay, maybe not everything was a winner. I’m currently battling a slight case of food-induced apprehension but trying to tell myself it's all part of the cultural experience.
- Evening: Back to the studio, feeling the need to recover from what I can only describe as 'sensory overload'.
Day 3: Culture Shock and Coffee Comas
- Morning: I decide to be 'cultured'. I visit a temple. I’m not sure I’m getting it, but the incense smells amazing. I spent time looking at the temples, and the bright colors felt as if they were burning into my eyes!
- Mid-day: Coffee appreciation class. I had to recover by drinking way too much Vietnamese coffee. It's strong, it's sweet, and it will keep you up for 24 hours straight. I may or may not be currently running on caffeine fumes.
- Afternoon: Back to the studio. I spend the afternoon on the balcony with a view. I end up getting a nosebleed from the heat and sitting inside instead.
- Evening: The 'Pool' strikes again. The same guy that was judging me day one is back, and I think he's judging me again, but I am far too tired to care.
Day 4: River Adventures (and Mosquito Mayhem!)
- Morning: Determined to experience the "Rivergate" part of my stay, I booked a boat tour. The river itself was… interesting. A lot of boats, a lot of noise, and a LOT of floating trash. Let's just say, I wouldn't want to fall in.
- Mid-day: Mosquitoes. They found me. They feasted on me. I am now covered in itchy red welts. I am basically buzzing with annoyance and a cocktail of antihistamines.
- Afternoon: Trying to get a massage near the studio. The massage therapist was skilled, but the spa itself…let’s just say the music was on repeat. I have a feeling I will never unhear the instrumental version of 'Careless Whisper' again.
- Evening: Back at the studio. I find a pack of instant noodles, and decide to ignore it. I need to find some comfort food.
Day 5: Final Reflections (and a Desperate Plea for Air Conditioning!)
- Morning: This trip. This thing. It's been a wild ride. Up close and personal with sensory overload, intense humidity, questionable street food, and the ongoing mosquito war.
- Mid-day: Thinking about going back to the market for one last try. Maybe I have to buy more random stuff!
- Afternoon: The best part of this trip? That air conditioning I was so ecstatic over. It's been my saving grace.
- Evening: Headed to the airport. I am in dire need of a shower, sleep, and maybe a long session of staring blankly at a wall. Wish me luck. And someone, please, send me a lifetime supply of bug spray. Over and out.
(Disclaimer: This is a completely fictionalized account, based on imagined experiences and personal biases. Actual experiences in Vietnam may vary… drastically.)
Escape to Paradise: Im-Jaich Wasserferienwelt Awaits!
Luxury Poolside Studio in Ho Chi Minh City: Ben Thanh & Rivergate Views! - FAQ (With a Dash of Reality)
Okay, spill the tea! How's the view *really* from up there? Ben Thanh and Rivergate... are we talking Insta-worthy or...overhyped?
Alright, listen. The view? Initially, I saw the pictures, you know? Towering buildings, shimmering river, the whole shebang. My first thought? "Photo-shopped! Gotta be." But then... I got up there. And, damn. It *is* good. Like, really good. Ben Thanh market, all the crazy lights at night? Pure magic. The Rivergate? Well, it's no Eiffel Tower, but still... impressive. You can practically hear the city breathing.
**Important Caveat:** On one hand, it was amazing to catch the sunset from there. On the other hand, there was this one time... this one *horrible* time, maybe around 4pm... I swear to God, the sun angle was just wrong. It was bouncing off the buildings and reflecting directly into my eyeballs. I had to hide behind the blinds. So, yeah, Insta-worthy? Absolutely. 90% of the time. Prepare for potentially *blinding* sunlight at certain times of the day – bring sunglasses even *indoors* sometimes. And, maybe, a good pair of blinds. They really are your best friend.
The pool… how crowded is it? 'Cause I’m not trying to swim with a whole flock of tourists or something.
Ah, the pool. Okay, here's the deal. It's a *luxury* pool, right? So, you *expect* it to be swarming with people in their designer swimsuits. But surprisingly, and I mean *surprisingly*, it's often pretty chill. Sometimes I'd have the whole thing to myself! Other times, you'd get the odd, slightly tipsy, expat trying to impress someone. Honestly, the whole experience is a bit of a lottery. The one time I really *didn't* want it crowded? That's when a whole bus load of tourists from who-knows-where arrived. I'm talking splashing, selfies, and the general chaos of group outings. I retreated to the studio, and sulked. Mostly nice. But prepare for the occasional onslaught. Bring a towel, a book and a thick skin.
Is the studio actually *nice*? Like, inside? ‘Cause “luxury” is a word that gets thrown around a LOT.
Okay, so "luxury". Yep, it's legit. Think sleek design, good quality furniture, and the a/c works like an absolute dream. I'm a sweaty mess kind of person, so that's a big plus. The bed? Super comfy, I swear. I slept *hard*. The bathroom situation? Top-notch, no complaints about the water pressure or the hot water running out on you. Actually, the one real complaint - the wifi. It worked okay for a while... then it would just... die. And I'm talking *full on* "searching for internet" mode. I had to reset the router every few hours. Which, in the grand scheme of luxury? Annoying, sure, but not the end of the world. Especially when you’ve got that view to distract you! It makes you really appreciate your connection when it finally clicks in again.
Location, location, location! How easy is it to get around and grab some food? Is it all just tourist traps?
Okay, the location is *fantastic*. Ben Thanh market is right there. You can walk. You can get a taxi really easily. Grab a Grab scooter and hurtle through the city traffic. (Not advisable if you value your life, though). Food? It's everywhere! From fancy rooftop bars to tiny street food stalls. Sure, there are tourist traps -- the ones that are overly-expensive and serve bland food. But honestly, the food scene in this city is incredible, and there's something for everyone, even if you’re on a budget. My advice? Get lost. Wander around. Ask the locals where they eat. You'll find gems. I had the most incredible Pho from a tiny place I stumbled upon after a particularly stressful shopping expedition. I tell you, it was life-changing... or at least, trip-saving.
Noise levels? I’m a light sleeper. Will I be hearing construction all night?
Okay, noise. This is a *city*, folks. Expect noise. But honestly, it wasn't *too* bad. The windows seemed pretty soundproof, and I slept pretty well. No constant construction noises, at least not while I was there. But let's be real: you'll hear motorbikes and a bit of general city rumble. If you're super sensitive? Bring earplugs. Or, perhaps, invest in a really good white noise machine. Or, maybe, try to find a secluded cave far, far away from any city. But for a city apartment? Pretty darn reasonable. The sounds of the city felt more like a background symphony than an intrusive intrusion.
Any hidden costs or things I should be aware of that aren't obvious?
Hmm, hidden costs... well, the initial booking? Straightforward. But be prepared for the occasional "convenience fee" here and there, depending on how you pay. Also, the laundry situation might be a bit of a gamble. They *probably* have a washing machine, but I took my clothes to a local laundry service, and the price was peanuts and super fast (maybe a bit *too* fast, I think my favorite shirt shrunk). Oh! And the mini-bar may be tempting... resist! Or, at least, check the prices *before* you get carried away. I may or may not have accidentally consumed a tiny bottle of something outrageously expensive. Oops. Aside from that? Just the usual – factor in transportation costs, and the inevitable urge to buy EVERYTHING at the markets. And perhaps budget slightly more than you think you need. You *will* want to eat all the food. And you *will* want to buy all the souvenirs. Trust me.
Would you go back? And would you recommend it? Really, be honest!
Okay, the honest truth? Yeah, I'd go back. Despite the blinding sunlight, the wifi woes, and the potential for a crowded pool, it was pretty darn amazing. The view, the location, the general vibe… it's hard to beat. It’s a perfect base for exploring and enjoying the craziness of Ho Chi Minh City. Would I recommend it? Absolutely! ...with the caveats. Pack sunglasses. Bring earplugs. And definitely learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases. Oh, and maybe bring your own fast, reliable wifi. Because, trust me, you don't want to be glued to the internet cafe down the street, even though it’s an adventure in itself. But seriously, go.Stayin The Heart
