An update to Mekong Deck and PVO in Vientiane - Gone. The riverfront renovation project has wiped out many bars, food stall and small shops along the Mekong in Vientiane.
Prices at Nice Guesthouse in Phonsavan have gone up and I know the people quite well, the GT Rider discount was not known to anyone there.
Bunglows Phou Khoun is an excellent value and at 110,000 per night, is a good idea for those looking for shorter ride distances Vang Vieng - Phonsavan, Vang Vieng - Luang Prabang or reverse. In any case, the food is good as a buffet is served all day.
6.5 km south of Phou Khoun is an old military hilltop now converted into a restaurant, excellent view and the food is pretty good. The shop has an odd selection of EU chocolate. The parking is at the base but you can ride all the way up. Suggested: Use the toilet on the rear of the restaurant - someone built this one right - -
Remote night out: 49 KM west of Phonsavan is Nong Tang. On the small lake there are 3 little Lao Chalet looking buildings. Rates were about 50,000 per night. Little food in the area but it's on the main road and isolated, perfect for getting away from tourists.
Nam Ken, Hwy 13 KM 230. 5 small garden houses up the side of the hill across from the police box. 50,000 a night and there is a restaurant across the street. The hot springs are so so but some enjoy them. This is the base of the incline to Phou Khoun.
Vieng Xai: The guesthouse across from the visitor's center for the caves is a great value at 60,000 a night. Individual bungalows, hot water, good beds, no tv and quiet. There is limited food and not so great at the GH and around town there are few options.
Nam Neun: 5 km south of the intersection Hwy 6 and 1C. The 5 GH in this town seem to have been painted and upgraded. Inbound to town from the north, there are 2 on the river and quite alright. Fuel in Nam Neun is limited and the barrels on the northern edge do tend to run out. Food in town is fine at the market, many places but you have to really order off the menu, they have many things but on the menu are only a few items. Being creative is alright as long as they have the stuff.
as always, email if you have questions.