that place: a home away

Hotels are a travelers home away from home, the place from which journeys begin and end everyday. There used to be a time when any place to put my head down while traveling would do. I relish the hostel days- hose years provided for great experiences and memories, with dozens of friends made along the way.

As I get older, however, I am less inclined to fit as many people as possible into one crammed hostel or hotel room. I like my private showers and appreciate amenities, I don’t get to go on vacation that often (well that’s a lie) and enjoy actually feeling as if I am on one. A full-time grad student, my budget unfortunately is more like it was back in my backpacking (well, I never really did that either) and hosteling days. The perfect balance for me as I approach my late twenties is luxury that comes cheap.

Laos is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a little extra bang for their not many bucks. On this past adventure I was lucky to find hotels that made you never want to leave and were affordable enough that you didn’t have to. Below you’ll find a two of the gems I found along the way, my personally approved recs for your next stay (yes, I know that rhymed).

Hotel Khamvongsa

Khun Bu Lom Road, Ban Vat Chan, Vientiane, Laos, +856 21 223 257, hotel.khamvongsa@gmail.com

Quiet and relaxing with a colonial feel, Hotel Khamvongsa is located in the heart of Vientiane, a short stroll over to the Mekong River waterfront. The tasteful rooms are the perfect place to return to after a long day exploring the nations capital. The staff is friendly, the hotel spotless, the breakfast delicious and the overall ambiance- just lovely. The rates at Hotel Khamvongsa are pretty lovely too- a single room going for $35 a night and a lofted suite able to accomodate three a mere $80. Breakfast and wifi are included in the deal, and airport pickups can be arranged for only a few dollars more.

hotel entrance

breakfast and bar area- included options include asian, european, american and “farmer” options as well as coffee, tea, shakes and more

loft room for three

view from our room

convenient location

Ban Sabai Bungalows

Sisavang St, ban viengkeo, Vangvieng District, Vientiane Province, Laos, +856 23 511 088, bookingbb@inthira.com

Normally a backpackers paradise, the Ban Sabai Bungalows offer a peaceful retreat in the heart of Vang Vieng. Situated directly on the shores of the Nam Song River, the resort style bungalow complex is hidden away from the bustle of town. The accommodations are clean and basic, offering travelers a little more than most of the low budget hotels in the area with a price that’s just right. Rooms range from $34-58 a night, a little bit more during the high peak season. Breakfast with a killer view is included, the view baguettes alone reason enough to return.