Villa Philaylack

This was my third stay here, and the first two were before Covid. The rooms are comfortable, and room 106 was very nice this time. It's a great location, with most things a short walk away. There's a covered outdoor area with tables, chairs, plates, and cups if you want to bring food back, plus secure parking for your motorbike. Try to get room 201, it's the best one.

Really good value. The clean, air-conditioned room had a bathroom, towels, soap, shampoo, bottled water, and a fridge to use. Hairdryers and combs are available to borrow from the front desk. You're close to the markets without the noise, and laundry service is available. There were still mosquitos, though. It's also near a popular noodle shop.

For a place classified as 2-star, this is perfect accommodation. I feel like I got more than I paid for.

The hotel itself was kept to a very high standard. The beds were comfortable, and I loved the fleecy blanket on cooler nights. My concerns are more about how guests might be treated. I booked train tickets through the hotel at 8.30am the day before traveling. I knew the train to Vang Vieng fills quickly and tickets need to be booked between 10-12, since the ticket office closes for lunch and after that there's little chance of getting one. At 19.00, a reception staff member knocked on my door to say the train was full and ask if I wanted to pay for another night. I'd already paid for accommodation and tours in Vang Vieng, and the news caused me a lot of anxiety. Once I had calmed down, they said they'd book me a bus, but I'd have to pay extra. In the end, I paid the same as I would have for the train. I wouldn't rely on the hotel for booking tickets, since it isn't guaranteed. My biggest concern is safety with scooter rentals. The scooter they rented us was a complete death trap. A novice rider could have been seriously injured or worse. The helmet they gave me had a broken clasp; they tied it together and told me to wear it that way. For your own safety, use a different hotel or rental agency. The bikes provided here aren't worth your life.