Amantaka

The shared spaces were the highlight for me. The shaded pool is wonderfully refreshing, and it's easy to lose an hour there after thinking you'd stay for five minutes. The historic building has been beautifully restored, immaculate and elegant, without feeling old. But the rooms are so minimalist that I was occasionally reminded this used to be a hospital. A little more softness, warmth, and lived-in comfort would help. We had an upgraded room with a pool, but the bed was two beds pushed together. Even with the soft toppers and cloud-like bedding, I ended up on the wooden frames where they met. My back was very sore, and it was a long night. Please reconsider these beds. The spa was a letdown. The massage was badly done, with no technique or intention and no benefit at all. It wasn't relaxing or energising, just a waste of time. My husband and I rarely agree so completely. Dining felt predictable too. Aman isn't known for its cuisine, which is frustrating given the potential. Management could consider making the first Michelin-level restaurant in Laos, open to the city, with a private poolside veranda kept for hotel guests as it is now. Having Caesar salad as the safest menu choice feels like a modest compromise for a hotel with such high ambitions. My disappointment reaches beyond this property. Aman seems not to read guest feedback or keep track of guests across its hotels. This was our fifth Aman stay, and we have just one future booking. It feels quite possible this will be our last. At this price, you'd expect to feel recognised, remembered, and a little special. Instead, there's a significant premium over comparable neighbouring hotels, while facilities across the portfolio often seem tired and outdated. Without that feeling of exclusivity, the magic quietly goes away.

At Amantaka, the discreet service seems to anticipate what guests want without intruding. The rooms are tastefully furnished and comfortable in a way that goes beyond the usual, making a stay feel introspective. Natural materials and minimalist lines give this retreat a calm, almost worshipful atmosphere. Its restrained elegance comes from thoughtful architectural details, with each corner connecting to the surroundings. Amantaka brings its aesthetics and functionality together harmoniously, creating the kind of authentic experience associated with Aman.

I had a peaceful breakfast and a really nice time chatting with a few staff about the food, hotel, and Laos. The service was perfect, and there were just three other groups in the restaurant besides me. I wasn't staying at the hotel, so I called ahead that morning to check whether outside guests could have breakfast. They said yes, though the balcony might be full. The menu has Western and Lao-style dishes. I ordered congee, which was really good, with a rich, flavourful broth, probably pork stock, plus a fruit platter. One fruit looked just like a persimmon to me, but turned out to be apple, which was a bit disappointing. It's à la carte only, which I think is also the case at other Aman properties like Aman Tokyo. I wanted to visit Aman Taka that morning. Thank you very much.

This is the third Aman hotel I've visited this year, after Amanwella in Sri Lanka and Aman Nai Lert in Bangkok. They all have their own great qualities and are worth the cost. Amantaka fully met my expectations, from the service, food, and room to the beautiful, extensive grounds and facilities, with abundant history stories.