Independent - accommodation in Vientiane

Nice party

We left the Amari shaking our heads... On one hand, it probably is the nicest hotel in Vientiane, staff always smile and greet you, and the value for money was great. On the other hand... MASSIVE IMPROVEMENT IN TRAINING ARE NEEDED! Before even arriving - I would have cancelled this booking if it had been refundable because my email correspondence with the hotel manager was SO BAD. I emailed asking for help booking the Laos-China high-speed train from Vientiane to Luang Prabang and was immediately told "no". I had to write again explaining that I cannot book it online and every other 4-5 star hotel I've ever stayed at in my life has helped with transport/transfer as a standard part of concierge services (have lived in SEAsia for 15 years and found Thai hotels to generally be amazing). Again, I was told "no, we don't do this" and bizarrely given a "Facebook" link and told it was the "official site"?! It absolutely is not. I was given incorrect information and refused any assistance. I asked to connect with the hotel manager and my experience was just as poor and frustrating - they failed to give any relevant and important information and refused to help. I would have cancelled at this point had I booked a refundable room. For anyone reading this far wanting to book the Lao Bao 2-hour train, in some regions, you can download the app to book *only* 3 days ahead. Staff lacked knowledge and training in all areas. They also couldn't confirm train station address for taxi.

I highly recommend the Holiday Inn Vientiane— it’s by far the best one I’ve stayed at! The hotel is new and very clean, the staff is quick and efficient, and room service was great. The beds and pillows were super comfortable, making for a restful stay. The gym, sauna, and steam room were a much-needed bonus. I’d definitely come back!