Lao Golden Hotel

The location in a Korean district made for an interesting area to explore, even during a one-night stay. Breakfast, though, was disappointing, with only about three side dishes to choose from and not much satisfaction. Cleanliness needs a lot of work. I found ants and cockroaches in the room, which made me uncomfortable. I was also very uneasy when a cleaning staff member entered without permission, saying they had forgotten a cup of instant noodles from the minibar. I found it hard to believe that could happen. I was unhappy with the service when I asked to check the room for forgotten belongings. At first I was told the cleaning staff had already gone home and wasn’t allowed to check. They only reluctantly let me in after I pointed out they should have a spare key. The minibar inventory was poorly managed too. I was charged for items I hadn’t used, though the issue was resolved after I explained. Still, it was disappointing.

The worst part was seeing staff bring out fresh coffee and real tea for themselves while guests got rubbish. The manager seems to think that’s acceptable. Breakfast may have been the worst I’ve ever had. The juice was sugary orange water with no fruit, and the tea was flavorless hot water with a couple of leaves in a big pot. The coffee was awful, powdery rubbish, probably warmed up from the day before. There was white loaf bread with margarine, fried noodles, and fish labeled as pork.

I checked into the room on 9th June. The receptionist, an old lady, took a picture of my Visa card showing the card number and security code, even while I was telling her she couldn’t photograph it. She apologized and said she deleted it, but I had to block online transactions afterward. Terrible service at reception.

I spent four nights here on a visa run and would come back. The room was clean, the bed comfortable, and the AC worked perfectly. There was a full fridge, plus shampoo, toothbrushes, soap, and bottled water. It was quiet, and the staff were friendly. The rooms are a bit dated, and breakfast could use more choices, but I don't have other complaints. People have been harsher about this place than it deserves.