LAOS

Hostel Recommendations

Mama Leurth Sunset Guesthouse

As previously mentioned, most of the places to stay here are not designed around sociability, meaning I felt unfair giving a rating of atmosphere. Many people will opt to stay in much simpler accommodations here that offer stunning river views with private balconies. The only problem with these is that many have poor toilet facilities with no air conditioning, and for an area that reaches upwards of 40 degrees, we really didn’t fancy it. We opted to stay in this guesthouse, which was really more like a hotel. Facilities were top-class with private bathrooms and spacious beds.

Food Spots

• Crazy Gecko- Whilst also being one of the more popular hostels on the island, Crazy Gecko offers a wide selection of breakfast options that are all cooked to a tee. The only downside is that it’s slightly more expensive than the rest of the restaurants.
• Gordan Ramsey’s Favourite Restaurant in Asia- A curry house so good that I cannot even find it on Google. It’s opposite the Reggae Bar and has a large sign outside claiming to be Gordan Ramsey’s favourite restaurant, the validity of the claim which is yet to be confirmed. Genuinely a very good curry with a wide selection. One fair warning is to not look the owner in the eye and ask for it hot; he will punish, as my friend found out.
• Street Side Samosa’s- You’ll notice down the main stretch of shops that many locals will be selling Samosas’s filled with a variety of ingredients, including vegetables, chicken, pumpkin, and banana. Please do not be put off by the appearance or 10p price tag, these were very delicious and provided me with the majority of my nutrition throughout my stay here.

1. Rent Bikes- As previously mentioned, there is a dispute over the over the lack of cars and mopeds that can be rented in Don Det; the primary reason for this is that they are simply not needed. Renting bikes is definitely the best way to explore the island. Bikes can be rented very affordably from most hostels and a few street stalls. Now I don’t have any specific recommendations of where to go on said bikes, mostly because you can easily see the whole thing within a few hours. Just ride around, and you’ll be spoilt with various cool bars, cafes, and river banks for you to enjoy.
2. River Boat/ Fishing Tour- There are a wide range of companies that offer this service, each one practically identical. For a small fee of around £15 per person, they will take you around the rest of 4000 islands before ending up on a secluded bank where you can fish to your heart’s content. Now I wouldn’t have any prior expectations of turning up on the next episode of River Monsters, but we did end up catching some pretty sizeable fish, which were kindly cooked and prepared for us on the very beach we had just caught them.
3. Day Trip to Khone Falls- The largest waterfall in Asia by volume was not purely my one and only fun fact I gain from this trip but was also a must see. A short boat and car ride will take you directly to the location, where you can gaze in awe at this truly amazing natural wonder. Now I might be over exaggerating slightly; however, this was definitely a must-see whilst in Don Det, especially if grown tired of sitting around relaxing.

Don Det’s nightlife is as chill as the island itself—think low-key, laid-back, and perfect for sipping a beer while watching the river flow. Don’t expect wild parties or neon lights; instead, picture cosy bars where you can kick back, meet a few friendly faces, and enjoy the gentle breeze.

Reggae Bar- Catch some live reggae tunes while you chill along the river. With its relaxed vibes, riverside setting, and a slackline for added fun, this spot is all about good music and easygoing times.

Fortnightly Psytrance Rave- For a change of pace, check out the biweekly psytrance rave. It’s a high-energy event that brings a burst of dance beats and colourful lights to the island, perfect for when you’re ready to trade the tranquillity for some serious groove.

Hostel Recommendations

Sun Rise Hostel

There was something in the air at this hostel. Maybe the lack of things to actually do in the town actually made for a much more social atmosphere in the hostel. They host an array of different activities in the evening, and their unique seating arrangement made it near impossible not to make friends. Now the facilities in terms of showers and toilets were actually relatively nice; however, the same could not be said for the beds. In saying that we had no issue with the cleanliness, but basic would probably be the best word to encapsulate the sleeping arrangements.

Food Spots

• Zurich Bread Factory and Café– A real taste of home with amazing coffee and a wide selection of panini’s and sandwiches that are all freshly made.
• La Silapa Italian & Lao Kitchen- If you’re in the mood to stray even further from cultural cuisine, make sure to go and make a visit to this great food-fired pizza spot. Slightly on the pricey side, but will have you feeling like you’re sitting by the canals of Venice.

1. Play Petanque with the Locals- A game very similar to French bowls, this activity offers a slightly more unusual experience and is a great way to mix with the local people. Just walk along the Mekong River, and you will be sure to find a few games in full swing. Just a fair warning: make sure to get absolutely battered by a random old man who looks as if he could barely pick up the ball in the first place.
2. River Cruises- Now if you haven’t had enough of floating peacefully around the Mekong, make sure to book a riverboat cruise with Tanvamekong Cruises. If you’re lucky enough to meet Mr. Vanthong, you’ll be in for a treat, as he will show you some impressive caves and swimming spots that you miss on the slow boat. Rates are super reasonable, and prices vary massively depending on size of group.
3. Kuang Si Waterfall- Very crowed with tourists and backpackers of all backgrounds flocking to this place for a gander at the stunning views and crystal blue pools. Despite the large crowds, it was very worth it—one of the most stunning pieces of nature I saw. Just over a £2 entrance fee if you choose to drive yourself to the location; however, roads on the way there are in woeful condition, so some of you more cautious drivers may prefer to arrange alternative transport.

This town’s nightlife is a bit quirky. Bars can’t stay open past 11 p.m. near a monastery—great for peace and quiet, not so much for night owls. Luckily, there are two spots where the fun continues.

Bowling Alley- The only place where you can bowl and drink past 11 pm! It’s an 80s throwback where £1 gets you a game, and yes, you can enjoy a beer while you play. Mixing tipsy travellers with heavy bowling balls might sound risky, but it’s all part of the fun. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to meet people if you’re flying solo.

Dao Fah Nightclub- After you’ve bowled your heart out, jump in a tuk-tuk and head to Dao Fah. It’s one of the rare spots still hopping after hours, serving up Laos’ own version of Asian techno. It might not have top DJs, but it’s a lively place to dance away the night if you can handle the haze of cigarette smoke.

Hostel Recommendations

Stay Guest House

Standout spot in Thakhek, known for its top-notch facilities and the warm hospitality of its owners—a charming couple who really make you feel at home. The hostel offers clean, comfortable rooms and even provides storage for your bags while you tackle the Thakhek Loop. While they don’t serve food, it’s the perfect place to get a restful night’s sleep before and after your adventures.

Thakhek Loop

Don’t expect any rowdy socials like you would find on the Hia Giang Loop; the tour is completely unguided, and you will predominately only spend time with the people you start the loop with. These few days were some of the best I had during my whole trip and were also some of the most chilled.

This loop should ideally be completed in three nights and four days. Each day is packed with an array of caves, lagoons, and view spots for you to enjoy at your own pace.

Make sure to stock up on cash before leaving, as many of the stops lack functional ATMs, meaning you may find yourself in the mud if you run out of cash to fill up on petrol.

For a full breakdown of where to stay and the different stops, check out 360 Nomad’s page.

Hostel Recommendations

Nana’s Hostel

Imagine this: a hostel offering unlimited whisky and vodka from 8-10 pm. And I mean unlimited—ask nicely, and they might just hand you a whole bottle. The booze might be questionable, but hey, it’s free! The hostel itself is a bit worn-out, with a so-so gym and bathroom, but the beds are comfy and come with curtains. For some fun, challenge Pikachu to a game of pool; beat him three times, and you might snag a free beer or even a free night. 

Food Spots

• Big Mama’s Sandwich Stand- You’ll see quite a few posers desecrating the good name of the original Big Mama; don’t fall for these fakes. The real Big Mama can be found on the very last stall on the road leading away for Jay Dee’s bar. Make sure you try the sandwich with all the trimmings, but my advice is to maybe look away whilst she places a section of undisclosed meats on the grill in front of you, lest you may be slightly put off.
• Gary’s Irish Bar- For those lowly travellers who’re missing the taste of proper pub grub, make sure to drop by Gary’s Irish Bar. Now the idea of salivating over a proper Cumberland sausage to someone still at home in the Great Isles may seem slightly odd, but travel around Asia for long enough and you will relate, trust me. You can even get an extravagantly overpriced pint of Guinness to wash it down with.

1. Dune Buggies- Moped rides on northern Laos roads can be a nightmare, so splurge on a buggy instead. It’s pricey but worth it. Lagoon 2 is a must-see, with cool caves to explore (if you’re not claustrophobic). And don’t forget to embrace the tradition of looking ridiculous on the rope swings and zip-lines!
2. Airplane View Spot- Forget those classic motorcycle viewpoint pics—there’s a higher spot with an actual plane on top. The hike’s a bit longer, but the superior view and the chance to snap a killer photo in the plane will make your friends back home super jealous.
3. Kayaking- Tubing in Vang Vieng is a drag—long, boring, and lacking in fun compared to its Thai counterpart. Skip the tubes and go kayaking instead. It’s a much better ride for almost the same price, and you’ll avoid the sight of miserable tubers begging for a tow.
4. Paramotor- Hot air balloons in Vang Vieng are cheap (£90), but the 15-minute ride isn’t anything special. For the same price, try paramotoring instead. It’s more thrilling and worth the cash—just don’t think too hard about the sketchy safety practices!

Once you’re fuelled by free hostel drinks, take a quick stroll into town. Vang Vieng boasts some of the best nightlife in Laos, with lively spots that keep the party going into the early hours. If you’re looking for a memorable night out, this is the place to be.

Jay Dee’s Bar- All about high-energy electronic music with a distinctive vibe. It’s lively and fun, and while the beats are intense, the back area offers comfy seating for a break from the dance floor. A unique spot with a great atmosphere!

Full Moon Bar– For a more relaxed evening, Full Moon Bar is perfect. Lounge on bamboo beds and enjoy soothing music while catching various sports events on TV. You might even see some local cockfighting—an unusual but intriguing feature of Laos TV.