Experience Hanoi Like a Local: Why Travelers Are Choosing Old Apartment Homestays
Experience Hanoi Like a Local: Why Travelers Are Choosing Old Apartment Homestays
In May 2024, Trevor, an international traveler, stayed at an old apartment complex in Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. Despite the cost of VND1 million ($39.3) per night, higher than typical hotel rates in the Old Quarter, he was drawn to the freedom of self-check-in, keeping his own keys, and the self-service experience. For Trevor, staying over a month allowed him to immerse himself in local culture—waking up at 5 a.m. to join residents for breakfast and iced tea on the sidewalk.
Reflecting on his experience, Trevor noted the charm of communal living, including timely garbage disposal, bike parking in the courtyard, and peaceful evenings. "In previous visits to Vietnam, I stayed in large hotels and never experienced the slow, peaceful rhythm of life that I found in this old apartment," he said.
According to Dr. Nguyen Thanh Nga from the Academy of Journalism and Communication, many foreigners are captivated by living in Hanoi’s narrow alleys, away from the bustling streets, where they can interact with multi-generational families and discover hidden eateries. "Some even spend money to live in rural areas, harvesting rice and participating in local agricultural activities," she added.
The Rise of Homestays in Old Apartments
As demand grows, more residents in Hanoi have converted their homes into homestays. Since 2015, turning old apartment rooms into accommodations has become common. For example, Nhat Hoang transformed the second and third floors of his family home on Hang Luoc Street into guest spaces in 2021, offering six to eight bunk beds per room. By early 2024, his property was fully booked, primarily by long-term guests eager to experience life in the Old Quarter.
Russian traveler Sofia chose to stay at a hostel in an old apartment building on Hang Luoc Street. She was fascinated by the narrow entrance, winding stairs, and balcony views of Hanoi’s bustling streets. For VND100,000–150,000 per night, Sofia found the hostel’s affordable rates ideal for her extended stay. Sharing common spaces with other guests led to new friendships and memorable experiences. "Life here is fun, like living in a dormitory. The location is perfect for exploring a different side of Hanoi," she shared.
After four months of living with her host family, Sofia grew close to them, even celebrating Lunar New Year together. "They treated me like family, inviting me to enjoy traditional dishes like banh chung and pickled onions. I felt at home," she said.
Why Homestays in Hanoi’s Old Apartments Are Gaining Popularity
Hong Nhung, a local entrepreneur, began her homestay business in 2019 and now operates 10 properties in old apartment buildings on streets like Tong Dan, Le Phung Hieu, and Dao Duy Tu. These homestays, often rented to foreigners for VND800,000–1.5 million per night, offer an authentic living experience, allowing guests to engage with local culture and architecture.
Nhung’s properties have seen a surge in popularity since October 2023, with over 90% occupancy. Many of her guests are digital nomads or freelancers aged 18–29 from countries like the U.S., Canada, and South Korea. They choose these accommodations for long-term stays, attracted by the cultural immersion and family-like atmosphere. "Unlike hotels, where families are separated into different rooms, our homestays let guests live together, making it feel more like home," Nhung explained.
However, not everyone finds these accommodations suitable. German traveler Anna, 24, chose to leave her homestay on Hang Be Street after a few days. "The lack of light and cramped space made me feel unsafe. This type of accommodation is only good for short experiences," she said.
As Hanoi’s old apartments continue to draw more international travelers, the trend of converting them into homestays is likely to grow, offering a unique alternative to traditional hotels for those seeking cultural immersion and community living in Vietnam’s capital.