Rafael A
Google
The JW Marriott Ho Chi Minh City is perhaps the best high-end hotel in town when it comes to location. Positioned perfectly, it places all major attractions within a 10-15 minute walk, regardless of the direction you go. The staff is another highlight—attentive, professional, and genuinely committed to making your stay enjoyable.||However, while the hotel boasts a prestigious name, there are significant drawbacks to consider. Previously an Intercontinental property, the hotel recently transitioned to the JW Marriott brand, but it’s clear that updates and renovations are overdue.||We stayed in a suite but had to be relocated due to issues with the air conditioning. Unfortunately, the new room wasn’t much better. After further complaints, we were informed that the hotel maintains room temperatures at no lower than 20.5°C (68.9°F) at night and allows them to rise to 24°C (75.2°F) during the day. For anyone who prefers to sleep in a colder room, this is a major issue. Even the executive lounge and lobby suffered from the same lack of cooling, which was especially uncomfortable. Whether this is a new policy following the rebranding or an infrastructure problem, it significantly impacts the overall experience, especially for a high-end property.||Adding to the disappointment, the hotel is undergoing renovations in the pool area, which makes me wonder if budget cuts are affecting guest comfort. Poor water pressure in the shower, difficulty regulating water temperature, and non-functioning wall plugs in the room further reflected the hotel's aging state. These issues were unexpected for a property positioned as a luxury accommodation.||For future travelers, here’s my advice:||If you prioritize luxury and comfort: Consider waiting for the new Mandarin Oriental nearby, which is set to be a top-tier option when it opens.||If you need cooler accommodations: Check out Le Meridien, which is slightly further from the main attractions but offers a more comfortable temperature for sleeping.||For Marriott loyalists: The Autograph Collection inside Vietnam’s tallest building could be an option, but note that it requires a 15-20 minute cab ride to the city’s main attractions, which isn’t ideal if you want walkability.||While the JW Marriott Ho Chi Minh City has potential and a fantastic location, the outdated facilities and frustrating temperature policies leave much to be desired. Until management addresses these issues, it’s hard to fully recommend this property to discerning travelers seeking a truly luxurious experience.