Have just returned from Vietnam and whilst in Ho Chi Minh City I stayed at the Blue River Hotel. I was travelling on my own (50ish age group) and a little nervous, but once I arrived at this hotel I felt totally relaxed and safe. Thay and the staff could not do enough for you. They recommended places for me to shop, booked my internal flight to Hoi An, kept my luggage for me whilst I visited Hoi An, booked day excursions for me and were always keen to hear about your days adventures. I had booked a pickup service through them before leaving Australia and the taxi driver was waiting for me. On my return to HCMC after staying in Hoi An I stayed one more night at the Blue River before returning to AUS. Once again no problems with taxi pickup. The breakfast consisted of egg, sausage, bread roll, banana, juice and a coffee. Plenty to start the day with. The hotel was in a small laneway off Pham Ngao La (not sure of the spelling) Street which was a blessing when you wanted to sleep in - blocked out some of the noisy motorbikes. Takes about 10-15 minutes to walk to Ben Thanh Markets, with lots of interesting shops on the way, and lots of great restaurants close by. After speaking to other tourists who were paying more than twice the Blue River's cost ( AUS$20 per night) and not receiving the personal attention I did, I am sure if they return to Vietnam they will most certainly be trying the Blue River. Thanks once again to Thay and the staff for making me feel welcome. I will definitely travel to Vietnam again and would have no hesitation in staying at the Blue River Hotel.