Chato Hostel

I’ve stayed at Champa Residence three times in the last 2 years, but this may be my last visit. The place has character and could have been lovely when new, but maintenance and general upkeep seem to be missing or minimal. The friendly, helpful man at reception offered to show guests the rooms. My first room’s bed collapsed because the base support had been replaced with plasterboard sheeting instead of wood. They moved me to another room, which was run-down but seemed okay until I tried to shower. There was no hot water. When I raised it straight away, I was told that room had no hot water, something I should have been told before moving in. I was offered another room, but I’d already unpacked after a long day’s ride and couldn’t face moving my bags to another accommodation block. There are four blocks plus reception. I decided to stay just the one night rather than several days, which turned out to be the right call. The mattress was okay, about 6/10 for firmness, but old and worn. The air-conditioner worked well but was very noisy. The large refrigerator worked too, though it was also old and worn. The old-style TV didn’t work and blocked the mirror. The rest of the furniture looked similarly worn out, as if it was headed for the tip or to be burnt. WiFi didn’t work, there were no bathroom items like soap or a toothbrush set, and there was very little toilet paper. Cleanliness was below average, and the age and neglect made the rooms look even dirtier. Road noise could be moderately annoying at night, though the morning housekeeping staff were quiet. There’s a decent amount of parking and the property is gated, though I don’t know if the gates are closed or the security hut is staffed. I’ve never seen the on-site restaurant operating on any of my visits. Food stalls, cafes, and mini marts are within a 10-30 minute walk. The large 7/11 and large Friendly Supermarket are about 20-30 minutes away on foot and have most things a visitor might need. The waterfront, with lots of restaurants and bars, is about a 10 minute motorbike ride away. I can’t recommend this place to tourists or travellers anymore. My anagram says it all, using the first letter of each line: Champa Residence At Pakse. The only reason I give it 3 stars instead of 2 is that it’s pet friendly and my dog can stay in the room with me.

Good value, a comfortable bed, and a quiet stay with nice people. They let me check in early in the morning after a long bus ride too.

I found the hotel by coincidence and it turned out to be a great deal. The staff were really sweet and welcoming. It’s an older place, so the shower feels a bit dated, but the water is hot. The bed was big and comfortable, and the room had a balcony, fridge, and aircon. It’s about a 15-20 min walk west to the more touristy area. I liked staying in the livelier, more ‘raw’ part of town near the big daymarket and Japanese bridge. Recommended!

Nice people and a beautifull place to stay in pakse, close to both the morning market and evening market :)