Just wrapped up a single night at Sofitel Saigon Plaza.
Pros:
•⁠ ⁠Quite well maintained for a hotel built nearly 30 years ago.
•⁠ ⁠Location is good, with lots of spots to eat & drink within walking distance. There’s a 7-11 a mere 120m away at Saigon Trade Center, accessed through the alley to the immediate right out the front entrance.
•⁠ ⁠Buzzy, lively atmosphere in the lobby, with that classic feel — a piano player tickles the ivories in the evening — missing from HCMC hotels in this range going more for corporate or tour groups.
•⁠ ⁠Silver drink voucher got a glass of French wine at Boudoir lobby bar/cafe. You can also redeem at the pool bar and (I believe) the 2nd floor bistro.
•⁠ ⁠Ministry (formerly known as Ministry of Men, with an adjacent barbershop) has to be one of the best hotel bars in the city. Beautiful decor, amazing vibe, super concept. Worth a visit even if you’re not a guest, but a must-not-miss if you are.
Neutral:
•⁠ ⁠Room was fine. Looks exactly like the photos from 2022 a couple posts up (so no need for me to post more). Comfortable, adequate bedding. Like with the entire hotel, upkeep is impressive.
•⁠ ⁠Not much of a view from the room or rooftop pool (which is a decent one), which is hardly specific to this hotel -- certainly seen worse in this part of District 1, like from nearby JW Marriott/ex IC Saigon.
Cons:
•⁠ ⁠Shower/tub combo. Not a fan of these, but can be expected at hotels of this era and I’ve encountered them at higher price points (Ren, for example)
•⁠ ⁠Aircon blows directly on the desk/working area. Not so nice when trying to work and stay cool.
•⁠ ⁠You have to walk down the ramp (or steps) a few meters to meet Grab deliveries, as motorcycles aren’t allowed to drive up to the lobby entrance. I kinda get it, and the doormen were courteous in their explanation of the policy; but, still...

Overall, I had a pleasant stay and would return.