We couldn't find a room online because of the APEC convention. Our travel agent found this one and we were a bit hesitant to book it because the price was so low: $37/night. We thought we'd be fighting off cockroaches all night, but we were pleasantly surprised. Not only was the room clean, it had a/c, cable TV, the mattress on the bed was good (didn't sag when you layed down), hot water, separate room with shower and tub and flush toilet. Everything a body could want or need!
There were two elements to the downside: the staff couldn't speak English well, but we were able to make ourselves understood with some effort. Breakfast was one of two choices: pho (noodle soup with beef or chicken) which was quite good and filling, or bread, which was a little baguette served with butter and jam. Tea or coffee was served, but if you wanted a second cup you had to pay for it.
The location, 53 Hang Bun Street, was great. It was just north of the Old Quarter and we walked most places or took a cyclo. BTW, a cyclo ride is 20,000 dong/hour. A taxi ride from the Water Puppet Show (a must when you're in Hanoi) was 10,000 dong. One dollar is about 16,000 dong.
