Heading for Ho Chi Minh

Q: Can you recommend a hotel in Ho Chi Minh City? We are a young couple, but do not want to stay in backpacker digs, but are finding the smarter hotels Vietnam more expensive that we had imagined. A small, clean hotel for under 100 dollars would be perfect for us. - Sandy Jones

A: Room rates at hotels in Ho Chi Minh City have risen due to the surge in demand. You can sometimes get special rates on hotels located outside of the city centre, but for a good hotel in a central location I recommend the three-star Elios Hotel. It was only built two years ago, so is fairly modern. Rooms are well appointed and clean, with air conditioning and satellite television. It is located in the Pham Ngu Loa area, which is packed with restaurants, bars and shops. Room rates, including all taxes and breakfast, range from 45 US dollars for a standard room to 101 US dollars for a deluxe. Be aware, however, that none of the standard rooms and only some of the superior rooms have windows. Book a deluxe room to be assured of fresh air and a view! Book through one of the big discount websites like www.asiarooms.com, www.vietnamstay.com or www.hoteltravel.com. (16 Aug 2009)