The Elephant Crossing Hotel

The rooftop view was nice, but dinner was a really bad experience. Our table was filthy, with a half-smoked cigarette left on it. Service was awful and everything seemed disorganized. We tried to order salmon, but it wasn’t available, so we chose lamb and were served pork chops instead. We had finished eating before our friends got their soup and spring rolls. I’d only suggest going for cocktails and the view.

The view over the river and mountains is the main draw, especially from the rooftop, which seems to be the highest spot in the city. Higher floors give you a better outlook. My room was new, modern, clean, and well equipped. The pool has a stunning panorama, though the water was very cold. Service was poor: a simple beer could take 15-20 minutes, and staff spoke limited English. If the scenery is what you’re after, this hotel has it.

We went up to the rooftop at sunset with friends for drinks and snacks, and watched the hot air balloons. The 360-degree views across Vang Vieng made for great photos. To get there, take the elevator to level 9, pay the 50k kip entrance fee, then climb a flight of stairs. Staff were attentive and the service was good.

I’ve stayed here many times and have always enjoyed it. It’s a new hotel and seems well maintained. The ground-floor pool is nice, while the rooftop is the place for sunset, with a golden view of the mountains, balloons, and river below. The cocktails, wine, and food were all delicious, and service was excellent.