Sunrise Riverside Pool Hostel

Out of my whole Southeast Asia backpacking trip through 8 countries and 21 cities, the place I fell most in love with was without a doubt Laos. The laid back and welcoming atmosphere created a warm and inviting sensation, and I don’t know whether this is because of the country itself, or because of the way I felt at home at the place I was staying whilst I was there, Sunrise Riverside Pool Hostel. 

Getting to Laos was a mission and a half, with the option of either an overpriced flight from Thailand, or the dreaded 2 day slowboat. We opted for the flight to avoid wasting any precious time we could spend enjoying Luang Prabang. From the airport we got a taxi straight to the entrance of the little street that cars can’t fit down, so we walked across a bridge and through the little village area towards Utopia (probably the most beautiful restaurant you’ll ever see in your life), which is pretty much right next door! Yes, we found ourselves here multiple times each day for snacks and smoothies. 

We were warmly welcomed by the lovely family who own the hostel, a smiling mum and dad of 3 adorable little Laotian girls who love to give hugs and kisses and chat to all the travellers. We were helped to our 8 bed dorm room, where the beds are super comfy and have curtains, individual lights and power points. In the room there was a separate bathroom and an AMAZING shower, it was definitely the conversation starter with the friends we made in the room. At less than $5 US a night, the value for money at this place is incredible.

The group of besties, there's me in the back writing this blog!

Speaking of the friends we made, there was just something in the atmosphere that allowed every single backpacker in the whole room become such special friends by the end of the couple days we were all there. We ended up all spending every day together and joining each other in activities, which included daily naps and swims in the lovely pool overlooking the river. These are the kind of friends we’ll have for a life time with a special bond that only travellers will understand. 

Each morning a big breakfast of your choice is served, omelettes, fried eggs, or huuuuge banana pancakes, with coffee and juice. The daily night market is a great choice for cheap street food dinner! It’s about a 10 minute walk from Sunrise and they have a vegetarian buffet where you can fill your bowl as much as you possibly can for only 15 000 kip (less than $2). Afterwards you can walk around and shop to your hearts content from the beautiful locals who sell their handmade crafts and souvenirs. 

Vegetarian Buffet at the night market

Free breaky at the hostel