You’re landing in Saigon, the humidity hits like a wet blanket, and the sheer volume of motorbikes makes your head spin. It’s chaotic. It's beautiful. But honestly, if you're staying in a tiny hotel room in the middle of the backpacker district, that charm wears off by day three. That's usually when people start looking at Somerset Ho Chi Minh City.
Most travelers think "serviced apartment" means a boring corporate box for expats on a two-year contract. That is a massive misconception. In reality, this place is more like a resort that happens to have full kitchens and enough space to actually breathe. It’s tucked away on Nguyen Binh Khiem Street in District 1, which is key because you’re close to the action but not literally sleeping on top of a bar on Bui Vien.
The Reality of Staying at Somerset Ho Chi Minh City
I've seen people book this place expecting a standard hotel experience and then get confused when they realize they have a full-sized refrigerator and a washing machine. It’s a game-changer. Especially in a city where you’ll probably sweat through three shirts a day just walking to get a ca phe sua da. Having a private laundry setup is a luxury you didn't know you needed until you're not paying $2 per sock at a hotel laundry service.
The layout is spread across a few blocks, giving it a campus feel rather than a high-rise tower vibe. It’s lush. There are trees. You can actually hear birds instead of just horns.
What the Rooms Are Really Like
Forget those "shoebox" rooms in central District 1. Here’s the breakdown of what you're actually getting:
- 1-Bedroom Units: These start around 46 square meters (Deluxe) and go up to a massive 85 square meters for the Premier. Basically, it’s a full apartment.
- Family Suites: The 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom options are why families flock here. The 3-Bedroom Premier is over 140 square meters. You could fit a small army in there.
- The Kitchen: This isn't just a "hot plate." You get a microwave, conventional ovens in many units, and all the cutlery. Honestly, it’s great for when you’re "pho-ed out" and just want to make a piece of toast or some pasta.
Why Location Is Everything (and Why It’s Tricky)
Some reviews will tell you Somerset Ho Chi Minh City is "too far" from the center. That’s sort of true if you refuse to use Grab, but sort of a lie if you like walking. You are about a 15-minute walk from the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. The Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens are literally 300 meters away.
If you have kids, being that close to the zoo is a lifesaver.
But let’s be real: nobody walks everywhere in Saigon in the heat. A Grab car to the absolute heart of the city (like Nguyen Hue walking street) costs maybe 40,000 to 60,000 VND. That’s like two or three dollars. You're paying for the silence at night. The trade-off is 100% worth it.
Nearby Gems You Shouldn't Skip
Right outside the gate, the neighborhood is actually quite "local" compared to the tourist traps. There is a 7-Eleven right across the street and a K-Market inside the property for snacks. If you want real food, check out Propaganda Vietnamese Bistro or Quan Nem for some of the best crab spring rolls in the city. They’re a short ride away.
The "Resort" Factor
The pool at Somerset Ho Chi Minh City is arguably the best part of the property. It’s an outdoor pool with a spa tub, and because of the way the buildings are positioned, it feels very private. They also have a tennis court and a gym that is actually functional, which is rare for HCMC residences.
For the parents out there: the Cubbies Kids Club and the outdoor playground are solid. It’s one of the few places in District 1 where kids can actually run around without you worrying about a motorbike clipping them.
A Few Things to Watch Out For
Is it perfect? Sort of, but not entirely.
The property was built in 1997. Even though they did a major renovation around 2017, some of the fixtures can feel a bit "classic" (which is code for slightly dated) compared to the ultra-modern glass towers like Landmark 81. But the trade-off is space. New buildings have tiny rooms. Somerset has massive ones.
Also, the breakfast. It's served at La Piscine by the pool. It's decent—hot continental stuff, some Vietnamese staples—but it isn't the world's largest buffet. If you’re a breakfast fanatic, you might find it a bit repetitive after a week. Honestly? Just go out and find a banh mi stall on the corner. It'll cost you 30 cents and taste better.
Making the Most of Your Stay
If you’re planning to book, here is some actual expert advice for your trip:
- Request a High Floor: The city views are better, and it's even quieter.
- Download Grab: Don't even bother with traditional taxis unless you have to. Grab is the lifeblood of transport here.
- Check the "Premier" vs "Executive" rates: Sometimes the price difference is less than $10, but the space jump is huge.
- Long Stay Discounts: If you're staying for more than a week, contact the property directly. They usually have better rates for "extended stays" that aren't always listed on the big booking sites.
Somerset Ho Chi Minh City isn't just a place to sleep; it's a way to live in the city without feeling like the city is crushing you. Whether you're here for a project or a family vacation, it offers a level of sanity that most hotels in the district just can't match.
Actionable Next Steps:
Check your travel dates against the Vietnamese Tet holiday (Lunar New Year) schedule. During this time, many local shops near the residence close, but Somerset remains fully staffed, making it a reliable sanctuary during the city's quietest—and most expensive—period. If your stay exceeds five days, prioritize booking a "Premier" unit specifically for the upgraded kitchen appliances and extra balcony space.