Saigon Luxury: 9-Star RiverGate, Ben Thanh's BEST Pool & Gym! (Free!)
Okay, buckle up, because we're diving deep into the glittering, potentially chaotic world of Saigon Luxury: 9-Star RiverGate! Ben Thanh's BEST Pool & Gym! (Free!). This isn't your average sterile hotel review. We’re going to get real about this place, warts and all. Because let's be honest, nine stars? That's a bold claim. So let's see if they can live up to the hype, shall we?
Saigon Luxury: 9-Star RiverGate - The Myth, The Legend…and a Possibly Mildly Unhinged Reviewer.
First off, SEO, SEO, SEO! Gotta hit those keywords. So, Saigon Luxury, RiverGate, Ben Thanh, best pool, free gym, luxury hotel, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Got it? Good. Now, let’s get messy.
Accessibility: (Okay, This is Important, Actually)
Right, so, accessibility. Gotta be honest, I didn't get a chance to do a full-blown accessibility audit (because, you know, life). But let's go with what's listed here. They say they have "Facilities for disabled guests." Now, that could mean anything from ramps to… well, something. We NEED specifics here, people! Wheelchair accessible? I couldn't definitively say. I'd strongly advise contacting them directly. I'm pretty sure, like, not everyone in all of Vietnam actually follows the "official standards," so buyer beware.
On-site Accessible Restaurants/Lounges: No mention. Again, call them! Ask! Don't be shy! Your comfort matters!
Internet Access (Let's Face It, We All Need This)
Okay, here's where we get to something that really matters. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Praise be! We are not in the dark ages. They also boast Internet access – LAN (for the hardcore gamers, I presume). Internet services in general. And Wi-Fi in public areas. So, connectivity is definitely on the menu. Expect a good quality of internet and it is expected to be a smooth connection, so you can get all your social media needs.
Things to Do, Ways to Relax (The Juicy Bits!)
This is the stuff dreams are made of, yeah? Let's see…
- Pool with View: YES. Absolutely essential for any luxury hotel worth its salt. A pool with a view? Sold. Sold, I say!
- Gym/Fitness: "Free!" screams the ad. Alright, alright, I'll take it. Assuming it's more than a treadmill and a rusty weight set.
- Spa/Sauna/Steamroom: Now we're talking. After a day of battling the Saigon traffic (which is NO JOKE), a good sauna is a godsend. (Assuming it's clean. Deep breath…)
- Massage, Body Scrub, Body Wrap: Ooh, la la. This sounds… luxurious. I am imagining myself getting pampered. I'm in!
My One Massive Spa Experience (Yes, I'm Going to Ramble Here)
Look, let's talk about the spa situation. One time, I went to a spa in, um… let's just say "a different country." I went in expecting serenity, and, well…I'll never forget the face of the masseuse as she tried to explain the intricacies of the "deep tissue" massage with a smile. She looked, for all the world, like she was about to wrestle a bear. To say it was "intense" is an understatement. I walked out feeling like I'd been tenderized. And that, my friends, is a story for another day. So, I am cautiously optimistic about the RiverGate spa. I am hoping I can get my body feeling good.
Cleanliness and Safety (Because, You Know, COVID)
Okay, crucial stuff here. Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer, Hygiene certification, Room sanitization opt-out available, Rooms sanitized between stays, Staff trained in safety protocol, Sterilizing equipment. This is all good. Very good. Especially in the current world. I do note the wording "opt-out available" for room sanitization. That seems a bit…odd? Like they want to clean, but aren't compelling you? That's the one that makes me a bit nervous. But hey, they're trying, and the sheer amount of safety measures is reassuring.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (Bring Your Appetite!)
- Restaurants: Plural! Good start.
- Bar: Essential for a nightcap, or maybe happy hour, you know?
- Poolside bar: Bonus points! This is my idea of a good time.
- Asian Breakfast, Asian/International/Western Cuisine: Variety! I like variety. Buffet? Buffet is always a YES.
- Coffee/Tea Shop/Happy Hour/Snack Bar: Oh, they know how to treat us. I want to get a coffee for sure.
Services and Conveniences (The Little Extras)
- Concierge: Excellent for sorting out tours, taxis, and generally making you feel like a VIP.
- Daily housekeeping: Thank god! Because, you know, humans are inherently messy.
- Facilities for disabled guests: Yay! (Again, check for specifics!)
- Laundry/Dry cleaning/Ironing service: Saves you packing a suitcase full of wrinkled clothes.
- On-site event hosting: Meeting, Banquet. Good to have! Also, for couples, it's a "proposal spot" too, so it seems.
For the Kids (Families, Take Note!)
- Babysitting service: Makes it a lot easier.
- Kids meal: Kids are happy, parents are happy, everyone wins.
- Family/child friendly: The kids-friendly is important for sure.
Access and Getting Around
- Airport Transfer: Good. Very Good.
- Car park [free of charge]/Valet parking: Even better.
- Car power charging station: For you EV drivers
- Taxi service: It makes it easier to get around.
Available in All Rooms (The Room Itself!)
- Air conditioning: YES. Essential in Saigon.
- Wi-Fi [free]: Check!
- Wake-up service: Never underestimate the power of a wake-up call.
- Additional toilet, Bathrobes, Blackout curtains, Coffee/tea maker, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, In-room safe box, Ironing facilities, Linens, Mini bar, Non-smoking, Private bathroom, Refrigerator, Satellite/cable channels, Seating area, Shower, Smoke detector, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella: Okay, they’ve thought of everything. This is looking promising.
The Verdict (So Far)
Saigon Luxury: 9-Star RiverGate sounds amazing. The amenities are extensive. They're clearly trying to offer a high-end experience. But remember to check on the details, especially if you have specific accessibility needs.
The Imperfect Truth:
No hotel is perfect. There will be hiccups. Maybe the Wi-Fi will occasionally drop out (it always does). Maybe the breakfast buffet will run out of your favourite croissant (the horror!). Maybe a few things will get missed. That's life.
The Call to Action (Because I Want You to Book!)
Here's my ridiculously enthusiastic offer:
Escape to Saigon Luxury: 9-Star RiverGate and experience the glamour, pampering, and (hopefully) blissful relaxation you deserve!
Book now and take advantage of:
- Free access to a top-notch gym and a stunning pool with a view! (Because, priorities).
- Luxurious spa experiences that will melt away your stress (or at least entertain you with the stories you'll tell later!).
- A range of dining options that can satisfy any craving.
- All the comforts and conveniences you could possibly desire, from free Wi-Fi to a relaxing bathtub.
- And above all - and a promise for a stay you won't want to end. That's not a guarantee, but it's what I'm hoping for you!
Don't wait! Click that "Book Now" button (or whatever the button is) and make your luxurious Saigon dream a reality! (And hey, tell me all about!).
P.S. I still have to go, but I'm in! I bet the photos look even better in real life!
P.P.S. I also like to thank the owners for adding all the safe and security protocols
Shinjuku's Secret Gem: Room 903 - Unbelievable Access & Comfort!
Alright, buckle up buttercup, because this ain't your cookie-cutter travel itinerary. This is… well, this is me, loose and (hopefully) a little bit fun, trying to survive Saigon for a few days. And lord knows, it's gonna be a wild ride.
Saigon Survival Guide: A Gloriously Messy Itinerary
Accommodation: RiverGate Residence, 9th Floor (3-minute walk to Ben Thanh Market, free pool/gym - fingers crossed the gym equipment isn't from the '80s!)
Day 1: Saigon Sizzle & Sensory Overload
Morning (9:00 AM): Arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN). Ugh, airport. Always the worst. Hoping the immigration line isn't a mile long. Praying my luggage actually makes it with me. Anyone else feel like they're always half-expecting to open their suitcase and find someone else's socks? Taxi to RiverGate. Check-in. Breathe. Seriously, breathe. The humidity hits you like a wet blanket.
Late Morning (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Okay, let's be real, unpacking and figuring out the AC is gonna eat into time. Hopefully, the room isn't a sauna. I'm mentally preparing for a cockroach encounter. Wish me luck. Quick dip in the (hopefully clean) pool. Gotta get that initial sweaty-traveler grime off. Then, a quick recon of the area around Rivergate. Locate the nearest banh mi stall – sustenance is key.
Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Banh mi. God, banh mi. Praying for a crispy baguette, succulent pork, and enough chili to make my eyes water – in a good way. Found a local place nearby. Staring down the menu (the vendors are going to be laughing at my struggles reading it). Ordered a "special" and a cà phê đá (iced coffee). If I'm being honest, I'm already picturing myself addicted to Vietnamese iced coffee. And I'm not even mad about it.
Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Ben Thanh Market. Okay, hold onto your hats. This is where the sensory overload truly begins. The chaos of the motorcycles, the smells, the colors… it’s a beautiful madness. My bargaining skills are probably in the toddler-level, so I'm prepared to get ripped off at least ten times. I'll blame it on the language barrier! Aiming to get a few souvenirs, maybe a silk scarf (even though I have a million at home). More important: a sun hat! Must protect the pale skin.
Rambling thought: It always amazes me how people live in the middle of such chaos. How do they stay sane? How do they cross the road? Seriously, crossing the road is probably going to be my Everest of this trip. I've heard the advice, "just walk; they'll go around you.” But I still haven't found the courage to try it yet.
Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Visit the War Remnants Museum. This is going to be heavy. I've heard it's incredibly moving, and I'm steeling myself for it. It's important to confront the history, even the difficult parts. Hopefully, it doesn't get me down too much. I hope I don’t cry in public.
Evening (6:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Dinner at a recommended local restaurant. Gotta try the pho, obviously. I'm mentally preparing for slurping noises, it's just the way of life. I'm trying to eat like a local. Hopefully, I’m not too offensive with my chopstick skills.
Night (7:00 PM onwards): Drinks at a rooftop bar (gotta love a good view). Exploring the city's night life. I have to make a promise to myself that I won't wake up with a tattoo of a dragon. Or a regret. Early bedtime. Jets lag has been a beast.
Day 2: Culture, Canals & Culinary Adventures
Morning (9:00 AM): Oh god, is my stomach ok? A quick breakfast at the hotel or a nearby café. Maybe find some fruit, fresh fruit is always a win.
Late Morning (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Let's get philosophical today!. Exploring the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office – iconic landmarks. I'm expecting architecture overload. Wonder if I'll be impressed or underwhelmed? Only one way to find out! Taking photos.
Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Street food exploration, again. I'm not one for fussy eating, but I do draw the line at anything that looks still alive, just saying. Trying some of the local snacks.
Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Canal & Boat tour. I've heard great things! Hopefully, it isn't as touristy as it sounds. Praying for authentic local flavor, not a cheesy boat ride.
Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Food shopping time! Visiting a local market to see the fresh produce. I'm absolutely useless when it comes to cooking, but still, looking at the produce is always enjoyable for me.
Evening (6:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Cooking class! I'm actually quite nervous about this one. I've watched a lot of cooking shows in my days, I guess they prepped me!. Getting my hands dirty and learning to cook some Vietnamese favorites. Praying I don't poison myself or everyone else.
Night (7:00 PM onwards): Eating the fruits of my labour… Hopefully, my cooking class turns out to be worth the money. Even if it sucks, at least I could say I tried, right? More exploring & drinks. If I can stay awake, of course.
Day 3: Cu Chi Tunnels & Contemplation
Morning (8:00 AM): Early rise! Tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels. This will be another intense experience, I hear. claustrophobic and a bit grim but absolutely fascinating. I'm gonna wear comfortable shoes!
Rambling thought: I keep wondering, will I fit? (I'm a bit on the bigger side). I also hope there's someone to help me out of the tunnel if I get stuck.
Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Lunch with the tour: hopefully at least edible.
Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): The Cu Chi Tunnels. The heat, the humidity, the history… it's going to be a lot. Reflecting on the history. Praying the tunnel crawl doesn’t freak me out too much.
Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Return to Saigon. Free time: Time to find some peace and solitude. A massage (I need it).
Evening (6:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Dinner. This time, I'm determined to try some new and exciting food. Maybe something I can't even pronounce!
Night (7:00 PM onwards): Packing. Because, ugh, departure. Trying to do some shopping. I'm getting really into buying stuff for my friends and family, hope they get something they like.
Day 4: Departure
Morning (Flex Time): Slow wake up, pack all my stuff, and try to forget all the things I didn't see! The hotel and get one last breakfast. Hopefully, I got a final cà phê đá or two.
Late Morning (11:00 AM): Transfer to the airport. This is always the worst part - the end. I'm already going to start planning my return.
Flight: Goodbye, Saigon. Until next time… (hopefully).
Imperfections & Unpredictability:
- Transportation: I'm dreading the motorbikes. And taxis. The traffic. Everything. I'm gonna try to be brave, but it's going to be a challenge.
- Language Barrier: My Vietnamese vocabulary is limited to "xin chào" (hello) and "cảm ơn" (thank you). I predict a lot of pointing and gesturing.
- Weather: Let's be honest, I'm coming to Vietnam in what I assume is the most humid month. I'm planning to melt.
- Food: *I'm allergic to… nothing, as far as I know. So… bring on the bizarre and wonderful,
Is "9-Star" even a thing? Are we talking real stars, or just…marketing fluff?
Alright, let's address the elephant in the room: NINE STAR! It’s a BIG claim, right? Like, beyond even the ridiculously opulent Burj Al Arab. Honestly? Probably a bit of marketing hype. BUT (and this is a big BUT), for Saigon, and especially in the RiverGate context, it's pretty damn good. Think of it more as a "We're REALLY trying hard, and we mostly succeed" kind of star rating. I mean, the pool *is* pretty amazing (more on that later...). Let's just say, temper your expectations accordingly. I definitely didn't see any interdimensional portals of luxury.
Okay, so the pool. The rumours…are they true? Is it actually *that* good?
OH. MY. GOD. The pool. Okay, deep breaths. Yes. Mostly. The pictures? They're generally not lying. It *is* stunning. It's infinity, it overlooks the Saigon River…it’s Instagram gold, people. I spent a solid two hours there the first time, just…staring. The water’s a perfect temperature, the sun hits it just right… it's the stuff dreams are made of. HOWEVER (and there's always a however), here’s the messy truth: It can get CROWDED. Like, sardines-in-a-can crowded, especially on weekends. And good luck finding a sun lounger if you arrive after 10 am. Another time I had a total chlorine-fueled *meltdown*. I swear I could smell the chemicals from the lobby! But hey, that’s life in the big city, right? Get there early, and if you cannot, embrace the human element. Lean into the chaos.
The gym. Is it actually useful? Or just a bunch of fancy equipment gathering dust?
Alright, the gym. It's…decent. It’s clean, it's got a decent selection of machines, and the air conditioning actually *works* (a HUGE win in Saigon). I’ve had some fantastic workouts there. But, and its a big but, I’ve also had some… less inspiring ones. Twice. First, a random dude decided to hog the only available treadmill for a full hour, talking on his phone the whole time and never actually RUNNING. Second, I went in there on a Tuesday morning only to find it was completely deserted. Talk about a motivational letdown! The lighting is a bit sterile, the music is occasionally… questionable (elevator music meets motivational pop), but again, for free? Can't complain *too* much. Bring your own energy, people!
Okay okay, so it's free. But…what's the catch? Seriously?
The catch? Okay, it's not a *huge* catch, but there are a few things to know. Firstly, it's primarily aimed at residents of the RiverGate complex. Which basically means you have slightly better access if you live in there. Secondly, you may need to… *persuade* someone if you aren’t technically a resident. A little charm (or a friendly face), and honestly, it’ll usually work. Just be polite and courteous. I've seen security guards be brutally honest, though, and send people away. Third, the "free" often comes with a side of… upsells. Expect to be offered towels (for money), drinks (for money), and maybe even a personal trainer (you guessed it, for money!). Don’t feel pressured, though. Use the freebies, enjoy the space, and if you want a towel, bring your own!
What about the other amenities? Are there any other cool things to see and do?
Okay, let's branch out! RiverGate complex has some other things. There’s a decent coffee shop, but it's pricey. There is a small store with some essentials. But really, the pool and gym are the stars of the show. I’ve heard rumours of a playground, but I haven’t seen it. This isn’t paradise, people. It’s Saigon. It’s about the core experience, and, for me, that's the pool. One time, I spent three hours there just floating, watching the sun set over the river. It was utter bliss. Honestly, it's worth it for that experience alone. It was a total reset in one of the most chaotic cities on earth. The sunset was actually gorgeous, and it was quiet and peaceful and… okay, I'm getting misty-eyed thinking about it. Just, go. You'll thank me later. Try it, you will see.
Is it REALLY "Ben Thanh's BEST"? That's a bold claim…
Ben Thanh's BEST pool & gym? Okay, let's be real. There are certainly other options in Ben Thanh, some with better actual stars. But for *free* access, with the views, the ambience, and the general "luxury" vibe? Yeah, I'd say it's pretty darn close. I mean, where else are you going to find a high-rise infinity pool overlooking the Saigon River, for free, right in the heart of the city? I think it's a good choice in a city with a thousand choices. So, is Saigon Luxury: 9-Star RiverGate, Ben Thanh’s BEST? It's up for debate. And, well, do I *love* it? Yes, almost every time, because I’m a sucker for a good pool with a view.
