Chiang Saen Hotels

....River Hill Hotel: Between the River and the Hill

This is the only hotel in Chiang Saen - and there are only a handful of Guesthouses. There's a very good reason for this, as this is not a hot tourist spot by any means! We ended up in this little town, due to the very clever hotel owner's new service, providing a "package" deal for tourists to stay at the hotel overnight, the 52km transfer to Chiang Khong and a 1 day boat trip to Luang Prabang. They also offered a visa service as well.

The hotel is a neat 4 storey building outside the main part of the town - just inside the old wall. The staff were friendly, and enough English spoken to make the overall process easily arranged. Rooms were pleasantly furnished, with some nice touches - teak furniture, traditional weavings and axe cushions.

The rooms all had television - but no English! I gather that the boat service, which is a major drawcard to the hotel, is quite new - and would be surprised if they don't sort out this little oversight for those who care to watch television!

One downside that tends to come with relative monopoly, was that the hotel restaurant was quite expensive.

Breakfast was included in the rate, and it was quite reasonable - except for the totally stewed coffee! Aaaaghh....the very memory it it!

• Opinion of Price: about average
• Related to: Budget Travel, Road Trip, Backpacking
• Written March 18, 2007

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