Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
its p
rici
er but less characterful sister property. It also has an excellent modern Asian
restaur-
The Belle Rive
Souliyavongsa Rd 071 260733,
thebellerive.com
;
map
.
An abso-
lutely charming hotel set across three buildings opposite the Mekong. The rooms (all with
river views) have been beautifully furnished with dark wood and Oriental touches, such as
decorated sinks and local fabrics. The suites in the main building ($16
0) ar
e split-level and
have a slightly more contemporary feel than those in the 1920s annexe.
$130
Lotus Villa
Kounxoa Rd 071 255050,
lotusvillalaos.com
;
map
.
Lovely, light-filled
rooms set around a shady courtyard filled with banana trees. The charming staff make you
feel instantly at home, and the limitless breakfasts (included) are among the best in the city.
The luxurious two-room Orchid Suites ($186) are
wort
h the splurge for the extra space, and
include a private balcony. Reserve well in advance.
$75
Mekong Riverview
Souliyavongsa Rd 071 254900,
mekongriverview.com
;
map
.
The excellent position at the head of the peninsula affords almost all rooms a view of the
river, which can be enjoyed from the private balcony. Rooms are large and light, with mag-
nificent hardwood floors; Lao cushions and wall hangings add a splash of colour, and nice
touch
es in
clude fragrant fresh flowers. A no-groups rule adds to the feel of (unstuffy) exclus-
ivity.
$220
Namsok
Sisavangvatthani Rd 020 2235 4747,
taetotam@hotmail.com
;
map
.
On one
of the few streets in the old city where you can still get a room for $10, this friendly place is
excellent value, with big and spotless, if rather sparse, wood-floored rooms. For a bit more
style (a
nd cash
) you can go for one in the block behind with TVs and snazzy black bath-
rooms.
80,000K
its location right opposite the Nam Khan, with very friendly owners. Rooms have shared
bathrooms and verge on dingy, but you
won't
find cheaper. Ask for room two, which has a
small balcony and views over the river.
60,000K
smart bathrooms, but are plain and a little overpri
ced; how
ever, you can't beat the location,
just around the corner from the National Museum.
160,000K
Sackarinh
Off Sisavangvong Rd 071 254512;
map
.
Tucked down a bustling little alleyway
off the main road, with football-loving owners, this friendly g
ues
thouse has petite en-suite
rooms with small flat-screen tellies and windows, but no view.
$25
Mekong road, this popular guesthouse is a great choice for somewhere a little quieter but still
central. Go for one of the rooms upstairs in the main building - bright and welcoming, though
