This newly renovated Hotel, only just opened is the perfect example of why not to use – the Lonely Planet!

It goes to show that there are hidden gems out there, and places need to be explored not just read about in a book.

The family run, Fanispan Hotel is one of those places, easily one of the best places I've stayed at in Vietnam.

The staff are unbelievably friendly, informative and accommodating. Huge breakfasts included in the price start things off, and the restaurant is open all day, serving a great range of food whenever you need it.

The rooms are clean, spacious, nicely decorated and great value. The bathrooms are of a good size and the showers are fantastic. (Other rooms have baths I believe).

There is free internet and wi-fi throughout the Hotel although occasionally the signal wasn't the strongest, however at the time of writing they were looking at improving this.

The Hotel is also connected to the long established company Sapa Pathfinder, so if you need any advice on the area, trips or treks booked they’re the people to ask.

On finding out I was travelling alone, they insisted I joined them for meals and evening drinks. They fed and welcomed into the family extremely generously. They were genuinely warm and approachable. By involving within their group, it’s certainly a week I won’t forget and I hope to be back there soon. Highly recommended for anyone!!

I Loved every minute I stayed in Sapa. The hotel was fabulous too. Lovely service and staff were always on top of things. They we always wanting to help in any possible way. I enjoyed Sapa and Fansipan Hotel very much, I would recommend it to anyone at any age.

Arranged through Sapa Pathfinders and thought the hotel was wonderful and the staff were very attentive and friendly. Best place we stayed in Vietnam and as much breakfast as you could eat!

We booked a great 3-day trekking tour via www.sapapathfinder.vn, a Sapa based travel agent. The tour include one night homestay and one night a hotel-stay in Sapa, which was the Fansipan View Hotel. The hotel is small, but new (2009). Which results in clean rooms, with good beds and comfortable blankets. Bathrooms are clean and feature rainshowers, very welcome after two days of trekking.... Last, but not least, the hotel staff is friendly, speaks good english and will do everything to make your stay as unforgettable as possible!