Reviewed by
Harriet Whiting
Leave behind the crowded bus station, steamy noodle stalls and beeping tuk-tuk drivers, and enter Green Park, a serene bolthole on the outskirts of Vientiane. In doing so, you retreat into a world of calm, order and comfort, without sacrificing local charm. With traditional architecture and overhanging tiled roofs, Green Park is one of the few hotels in Laos' capital to retain its original style.
The hotel aims to please the senses: eyes will love the symmetry of the smart white stucco and teak buildings, woven neatly around the tropical gardens, while your taste buds will relish the authentic Lao cuisine on the restaurant's terrace. The lush palms and climbing bougainvillea add colour, whilst tinkling fountains create a peaceful soundtrack. The 33 rooms have sumptuous beds, antique furniture and balconies overlooking the centrepiece: a shimmering pool surrounded by overhanging frangipani trees that drop fragrant flowers into the jade water. At dusk, softly spoken staff, dressed impeccably in gold-trimmed sarongs and matching sashes, adorn branches with lanterns and line pebble paths with oil lamps. It’s near on impossible to leave.
The hotel aims to please the senses: eyes will love the symmetry of the smart white stucco and teak buildings, woven neatly around the tropical gardens, while your taste buds will relish the authentic Lao cuisine on the restaurant's terrace. The lush palms and climbing bougainvillea add colour, whilst tinkling fountains create a peaceful soundtrack. The 33 rooms have sumptuous beds, antique furniture and balconies overlooking the centrepiece: a shimmering pool surrounded by overhanging frangipani trees that drop fragrant flowers into the jade water. At dusk, softly spoken staff, dressed impeccably in gold-trimmed sarongs and matching sashes, adorn branches with lanterns and line pebble paths with oil lamps. It’s near on impossible to leave.
Highs
- The authentic style of the hotel: Lao wooden furniture, ethnic artwork and traditional architecture
- Very quiet, especially in the rooms - an undisturbed night’s sleep is guaranteed
- There's plenty to do, from a morning watching fishermen on the misty Mekong River to an enlightening afternoon at the Wat Si Saket with its 2,000 Buddha sculptures
- Polite and unobtrusive service, typical of Lao hospitality
- The stunning pool area: by day refreshing and atmospheric at night
Lows
- A good 25-minute walk from town, so make use of the free shuttle bus to the city centre (every hour until 10.30pm), or borrow a bike (complimentary)
- Mosquitoes are prevalent; the hotel does supply nets but bring plenty of repellent
- Drinks are expensive, especially the overpriced Beer Lao
- Some may find the peaceful communal areas too quiet, especially in the evenings
- Popular with business types, but this means the pool is often empty!
Best time to go
September to March is the dry season, which means cooler temperatures and sunny days, although more people travel during this time, particularly in December. February is also busy during the annual water festival. April to August is wet season.
Our top tips
Pack long, loose clothing to keep you cool during visits to temples, and deter the mosquitoes at night.