Let's get one thing clear: This is not really a 'boutique' hotel. Another thing: The street-front of this particular property has at least three different names (The World, David and Boutique) so it may change ... again. That said, it looks to be a fine choice for the right type of traveller. The main selling point is the location: a very picturesque, very authentic market street that leads up to the main market, Dong Xuan. As long as you're seeking to embrace the sounds, colours, and scents of Vietnam, the earthiness of the people, and you know how to keep your feet underneath you on slippery, slimy streets, it's a top choice — which is to say, we love this location, but it's not for everyone. You can get some good deals on some very decent rooms. The cheaper rooms are windowless but not dreary, and the top-range are quite homey and good value for Hoan Kiem. It's an ideal vantage point for an immersion into a part of Hanoi where people are still delighted and surprised to see a foreign face and are happy to smile for a picture.
