I don't write much since I don't travel a whole lot, but I am a part time resident of Hanoi so I can chime in on many of the nice hotels. This is under IC Westlake so I will start there. Nice property, a bit dated, with overwater pavilions (islands) out onto Westlake. You only want to stay out there when the weather is nice. When its hot its no fun to make the short walk or the golf cart ride to main building. I like the pool area, a lot of plants and unique pattern to bottom of pool. I've stayed there I'd say 8 times over the years as a Platinum Ambassador. Been upgraded very nicely at least twice (low occupancy at time). As others have said, close to nice walk along lake (weather permitting) and nice restaurants nearby. Sheraton is literally across a small lane (you would say they are next to each other) from the IC Westlake. I stayed there once, don't have status, its really dated. Some nights $80 though, not enough to entertain me going (because no status). Hilton Opera and Hilton Garden Inn, have had Diamond before, currently Gold status with Hilton. Location, location, location. Hoan Kiem Lake is a 5 minute walk, Old Quarter (shoe street, spice street, silk street, etc.) a 15 minute walk. I take my family there when the price drops and we need a night away. Never stayed at the Metropole (2 minute walk from Hilton Opera), I'm too cheap and its pricey (for me). Looks great though. Intercontinental 72. New place, very nice. I've eaten there a few times and visited my friend's suite to check it out (compare to other hotels). Feels a little odd to be 60+ stories in the sky in a hotel (I know there are much higher), amazing views on a clear day. Crowne Plaza West Hanoi. 5 minute taxi ride away from IC 72. Both places are on the western side of Hanoi. Will cost you a taxi ride of 7 or 8 dollars to get to the touristy areas (near Hiltons). I like the Crowne Plaza West Hanoi just as a place to get away and watch cooking shows on a comfortable bed with my wife (Crowne Plazas in Asia are nicer than US counterparts). The service there is great, food has recently improved. I like how quiet the club lounge usually is (they treat people with status very well). They offer economical rates, but a little bit of a ride if you want to go to the old quarter. JW Marriott, if you are an engineering or architecture buff (I'm neither) this is worth a visit. A dragon shaped hotel with green grass growing on the roof tops and a year round pool with a near 360 view from the pool (view of buildings). The JW Marriott is nice but also in western Hanoi (next to National Assembly Building). I hope no one is miffed I threw all these hotels onto one post.