Originally built in 1932 as a family mansion, Settha Palace just oozes French colonial charm. It is Vientiane’s premier hotel, and enjoys pride of place on Pang Kham St., in the very heart of the city. Tucked away in its own private gardens, it is within walking distance of many of Vientiane’s major sights, shops and restaurants.
Though it has undergone extensive renovation in the 80+ years since it was built, Settha Palace does a marvellous job of capturing the feel and atmosphere of a pre-war stately home. Stepping into the lobby, with its polished marble floors, elaborate light fittings and rosewood bar, it’s easy to imagine that the hotel hasn’t changed at all in the last 50 years. Settha Palace’s 29 rooms are furnished to equally lavish standards, with marble bathrooms and handcrafted teak furniture.
Almost every South-East Asian capital has a landmark colonial hotel - often, these are modern 21st-century hotels wrapped in an historical shell. Vientiane's Settha Palace, however, is the real deal. It is by far the city’s most impressive (and expensive!) hotel, offering world-class service and heritage in spades. Those uninterested in pomp will likely be just as well served by the Ansara or, outside the city centre, Green Park, but others will appreciate the plush presentation of Settha Palace.
Accommodation
Settha Palace offers 29 rooms in three categories: standard Deluxe rooms and Junior and Executive Suites. The Deluxe rooms are reasonably spacious and feature the same amenities as the suites, including satellite TV, in-room safe, Wi-Fi, direct dial telephone and minibar. Some overlook the pool and garden, others the main road outside the hotel (the garden rooms are preferable).
The suites are much more lavishly furnished and feature private dining and living areas.
Dining
La Belle Epoque is a classic European restaurant serving French cuisine as well as seasonally-inspired Laotian dishes. The Sidewalk Café serves international food on an open terrace shaded by trees. Snacks can also be taken in the bar and by the pool.
Facilities
- Restaurant and bar
- Swimming pool
- Boutique
Child Policy
Settha Palace Hotel accepts children of all ages. Those under six stay free of charge if sharing a room.