Ancient Luang Prabang Hotel

The place is loud, starting around 4am. First the roosters, then noisy neighbours and running water from other rooms, followed by vendors preparing for the daily Monk procession right outside the hotel. The location is great, off the main drag and close to the temple, and the rooms are big, clean, and have nice balconies. We had no water for 24 hours. The staff were pleasant but not helpful, and our room wasn't cleaned one day even after we reminded them. Breakfast is included and okay, nothing special. There are countless better options in town at the same price.

The upstairs room was okay during my seven-day stay, but the early morning noise was the main problem. This is on the morning alms route, and a loud tourist group stood right outside every day around 5am. The location is great for attractions but terrible for sleep. I had to wear earplugs to get any sleep past 5. The staff were friendly enough, but their service took minimal effort. Laundry came back washed but unfolded, stuffed into my bags. I also arranged to rent a scooter for a set time the next morning. They missed that time, and it arrived two hours late in very poor condition. The front brake wasn't working properly. When I mentioned it, they tried to gaslight me, saying it was designed that way to keep the front wheel from locking. I had to cancel my trip that day. I definitely wouldn't stay here again.

It was a great pleasure to stay here. The staff and location were great, with lots of restaurants nearby and Sakkaline just an 8 minute walk away.

The included breakfast was lovely, with fresh fruit, eggs, baguette, jam, meats, and coffee or tea. Coffee lovers can also find some great shops by the river a couple of minutes away. The bed was very comfortable, and the staff were friendly and helpful. It's an older property with lots of character, and the location is excellent, a short 5-7 minute walk to the night market. Garavek Traditional Storytelling Theater is just a couple doors down, and we watched the morning alms from our balcony. The tub and shower are in the bedroom itself, which is quirky, and the fixtures are a bit dated. Neither bothered us, but they're worth knowing about. Around the corner, 1991 Wat Sene Alley Restaurant has great food and prices, and the people are lovely. For Western food, Popolo Restaurant down the street does excellent wood fired pizza and very cold Beerlao IPA. We had a wonderful three-night stay, would highly recommend, and will definitely miss this place and Luang Prabang.