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An often-underrated South East Asian destination, Laos is a fascinating nation with a long history and rich culture. It's also a land of great natural beauty, making it a wonderful choice for outdoorsy explorers eager to clamber up verdant mountains, cycle between lush rice paddy fields, or kayak along winding rivers, spotting birds and admiring ancient cave temples en route. Laos also remains an appealingly affordable country to visit, with budget-friendly food and drink spots, as well as an excellent selection of very reasonably priced hotels. Simple, small and often very charming, these are brilliant bases for exploring Laos' top sites. We've highlighted nine of our favourite great value hotels in Laos, divided between the elegant capital city of Vientiane, lovely Luang Prabang and more remote riverside gems. Combine all three areas for the ultimate Laotian experience!
For City Style
© Beau Rivage Mekong
- Beau Rivage Mekong is a wonderfully affordable little flamingo pink-painted hotel in Vientiane. Overlooking the Mekong River and the border with Thailand, this is a well-located choice for couples and friends eager to explore the city on foot. Pretty light blue or pink rooms await, with cosy beds, bamboo screens and views over the river.
- Green Park Boutique Hotel, set in a quieter residential neighbourhood, has a more classic Laotian feel with traditional embroidered textiles and artwork. Many rooms — some with space for families — have balconies overlooking the central swimming pool and verdant gardens. A friendly, well-priced base.
For Luang Prabang
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- Maison Dalabua, slightly beyond the historic district, has 26 romantic rooms and suites, connected by a series of walkways over beautiful lotus ponds. Gather at the swimming pool, hit the spa or hide away on your private terrace. The simplest of the classic rooms are charming and exceptionally well-priced.
- Mekong Villa @ Ock Pop Tok overlooks the river, just outside of town. Five airy guestrooms are bedecked with handwoven and naturally dyed textiles, reflecting the hotel's connection with an impressive ethically focused craft centre. Take an onsite workshop with local artisans, or feast at the riverside eatery. For budget-conscious creatives.
- My Dream Boutique Resort comprises a collection of airy bamboo bungalows, some of which have space for families. Very affordable, this peaceful bolthole sits on the banks of the Nam Khan River, just across the bridge from town. Cool off in the swimming pool or enjoy soothing massages.
- Indigo House Hotel's atmospheric blue-painted rooms feature big cosy beds, whilst the roof terrace offers mesmerising views of the town's ornate temple rooftops. Set in the centre of town, it's perfect for discovering Luang Prabang on foot or by bicycle, and offers very reasonable rates. The night market is right on your doorstep.
For a Riverside Escape
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- Riverside Boutique Resort, overlooking the tranquil Nam Song River in Vang Vieng, has 34 attractive yet affordable guest rooms. Decorated to reflect the traditions of eight of Laos' diverse ethnic groups, this is a carefully curated hideaway for romantics. Unwind by the swimming pool after days of hiking and cycling in the mountains, and dine on mouth-watering French-Laotian fusion fare.
- Residence Bassac has 14 lovely guest rooms facing flowering frangipani trees on the banks of the Mekong in Champasak. Put your feet up in rooms with four-poster beds, beamed ceilings and joyful patterned tiles. A chic little budget-friendly hotel with stand-out Asian and Mediterranean cuisine.
- La Folie Lodge, on Don Daeng Island, is a wonderful rural retreat for keen cyclists, kayakers and birdwatchers. The swimming pool is surrounded by 26 stilted wooden bungalows, each featuring traditional Laotian textiles; some have space for families. Simple, friendly and reasonably priced.