The flags
None of these alone means walk away. Two or more, and you have better options within three minutes.
- A tout outside quoting a price lower than the board
- No printed menu, or a menu without VND
- Towels stacked damp rather than folded dry
- Pressure to add a "special" option
- A tip envelope presented with a suggested amount
- Therapists called in from the street as you arrive
What to do instead
Filter the directory to Hoàn Kiếm with “Published price list” ticked, and check each listing’s tipping label and watch-outs before you walk in.