White Orchid Guesthouse

Prices range from 50,000 to 150,000 kip. The cheapest room had about a dozen flies inside the toilet. I couldn’t understand how they got in or why they’d stay there, and the hygiene seemed very bad. I was too lazy to move, so I stayed in the 80,000 kip room. The next one up in price had a filthy bathtub that nobody could make me use. My room looked the cleanest of them all, but the bathroom was still a nightmare. I literally walked on my toes to avoid touching anything. There was a fan but no AC. Laundry is extremely expensive at 20,000 kip per kilo, double what others charge. There’s no breakfast or anything. If you have a choice, go somewhere else.

White Orchid Guesthouse is near Phonsavan market, with restaurants and bike rentals within about 500 meters, making it one of the most convenient places to stay in town. The manager at the front desk speaks good English and helps make you feel comfortable choosing the guesthouse. They can also arrange laundry and bus tickets without hassle.

The price is low, and the room is basic, but it smelled bad and there was mould on the shower curtain. Finding two cockroaches, one in the wardrobe and another in the bathroom, was the worst part. The receptionist killed one when I asked. I still won't come back, and I wouldn't recommend it.

The morning market is only about 50 m away, and it's a nice spot to visit for breakfast or lunch. The rooms are good value and the staff are friendly. It's a simple, pleasant hotel for a night or two, though the building isn't especially pretty. The reception lobby is dark and feels a bit strange when you first walk in.