Empress Hotel Ho Chi Minh City

Stayed there for 3 nights. Front desk staff communicated in English so easy check in and out. Had what looked like a newly renovated room. Room was compact but surprisingly refined for a 3 star hotel. Bathroom fittings were top notch, all expected towels in a 5 star. Bedding was high thread count and most importantly for me it was clean, no smells. Aircon was nice and cold but made some noise on the 1st night. Reported it and it was fixed next day. No meals as I found out there was no staff since the pandemic. Easy enough to find food outside anyway being in town. A few doors up the road is also a convenience store (like 7-eleven) so easy to get some snacks. Good value and easy enough to get to/from the airport - especially with the heavy traffic of Ho Chi Minh City.

Stayed here in 2016 and liked, then saw the refurbishment on google and liked what I saw. This is false advertising as only the foyer has been updated. They claim to have a restaurant (not true) dirty walls, putrid smell, carpet in hallways never been cleaned. Would give zero stars. Paid for a Superior room which was just basic. Very unsociable staff. A hotel with nothing going for it.

Room was clean, modern and more than adequate although small. Breakfast was made to order and good - coffee was outstanding! Staff was very helpful and friendly. Hotel was close to grocery/department store and within walking distance of many district 1 sites. Family of 5 stayed in 2 rooms with no issues of space. Great hot water for showers - room service was excellent! Will stay again!