Vientiane Laos 15 Manthathurath Street, Ban Ziengyeu, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane, Laos This hotel, operating more as a guesthouse, is only a two minute walk from the Mekong riverside. Despite the rather shabby looking lobby-a hangover from its days as a disco-there are beautifully painted murals depicting Lao countryside over the expansive walls.
DESCRIPTION
This hotel, operating more as a guesthouse, is only a two minute walk from the Mekong riverside. Despite the rather shabby looking lobby-a hangover from its days as a disco-there are beautifully painted murals depicting Lao countryside over the expansive walls. Rooms are clean and spacious with high ceilings and various options such as fan or air conditioning, ensuite and balcony. Ask to look at the rooms before booking, as it is possible to get front rooms with a spectacular view of the Mekong River. The major attractions of the Samsenthai Hotel are the handful of little tables outside on the street. They are a great draw card for bringing in travellers and a good spot for a morning or afternoon drink. Try a thick, black Lao coffee here.
There's also a TV lounge inside and reception will happily turn on an English channel for you. There are chairs and tables for guests to sit at to read, write or talk. Unfortunately, there isn't a lot going on here socially with very few other guests. Samsenthai does not seem to feature in guest books and is as yet unknown. But the location is handy, a street in from the river and not far from the main traveller's street that contains most of the other guesthouses, restaurants and internet cafes.
The dorm has ten beds and is clean and relatively spacious. The bathrooms are also fairly clean. Reception is helpful and friendly and apart from the lack of atmosphere it would be a decent place to stay. All rooms are air-conditioned, fan, writing desk, table lamp.