The mixed reviews - bad/good had me confused before booking this hotel. Having stayed there, I now understand why - and think it worthwhile sharing with fellow trippers.
In a nutshell, I suspect that some reviewers are basing their experiences as a 'true' 4 star international resort - of which there are a growing number sprouting in the immediate area, particularly Da Nang. Others expect a typical, quirky Vietnam run establishment, that labels iself as '4 star' according to the prevailing standard. Both are valid: you just need to align your personal expectations.
AS A 4 STAR INTERNATIONAL RESORT ...
++++ This place is a bargain. Where else can you get such attentive service and accommodation, with (mostly) joyful staff, two swimming pools and a genuine 'tropical resort' setting at less than $100US per room? (Including a very generous buffet breakfast).
---- the pool is a bit grubby (I suspect poorly kept chemically) and the service erratic: great one moment, none existant the next. The rooms whilst a good size are all in need of minor maintenance and don't withstand scrutiny from a fussy guest.. Wi-Fi is advertised in all rooms. But in reality it only works near the business centre. I was told it would be 'fixed' in a day or two. But is was still not working after 5 days.
AS A 4 STAR VIETNAMESE HOTEL
++++ A great location 5 mins from the old town, it feels like a genuinely local experience. The breakfast buffet is great (it's not true european: get over it it!) and the bars and food service were availabe whenever we needed it. The staff smiled heaps..
---- It is good value for the garden rooms, but possibly overpriced for the riverside rooms. And yes, the ferry boats do start early, but unless you[re a light sleeper and leave the river facing doors open overnight, its not really a problem. These rooms are a little dark though: it would help if they checked for blown light bulbs more carefully.
In Conclusion:
The kids love the pool. The gardens are lovely. The staff were mostly great, but expect service typical of a country with a young tourism industry. If you want true 4/5 star, stay up the road at one of the places in Da Nang and pay 4 times the price for an experience you can have anywhere in the world. For our purposes, it was just fine.