Lonely Planet Review

This French-colonial landmark exudes grace and charm and is undoubtedly the leading address in Vientiane. It has been beautifully restored and the rooms include all the creature comforts you might desire without compromising the hotel's rich heritage.

The tastefully appointed rooms have signature rosewood furniture, wooden floors, satellite TV, minibar, wi-fi, safety deposit boxes and beautiful black-and-white Venetian marble bathrooms. The upholstered chairs and the ceramic knobs on all the furnishings add a distinctly French touch. The grand old building is set amid lush landscaped gardens, which include an inviting swimming pool. Having a drink at the poolside bar while sitting under the surrounding frangipanis is a delight, as is the food from Le Belle Epoque restaurant, which offers the best of both continental and Lao cuisine. The hotel's small size (it can't accommodate more than 50 guests at a time) fosters a pleasant atmosphere of intimacy. Drawbacks? Hard to think of any but the price, and even that is reasonable given the luxury on offer.