GA is an oasis of peacefulness in the middle of the typhoon that is Hoan Kiem Old Quarters. Everything is at a short walking distance. All of the staff there are nice, helpful, interesting and youthful people. It is a nice place to hang out and meat other travelers as well as local people. They organize walking tours with students that know all about Hanoi and want to talk as much English as possible. Of course they organize tours to Sapa, Ha Giang, Halon Bay and whatever else you like. The cooking class is definitely worth trying, way better than the ones you can join in restaurants and such because you get to choose the dishes and its way cheaper. Also, free yoga class :)