The Elephant Crossing

Address: Ban Viengkeo, Vang Vieng District, , Vang Vieng view map

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There is always a friendly Lao and Australian welcome here at The Elephant Crossing. Rooms are comfortable and stylish, and the owners are knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the many lovely spots around Vang Vieng that visitors can explore. Guests of The Elephant Crossing can access the river for boat trips and other water activities from private boatlanding. Family facilities include large suites, high chairs in the restaurant and an inflatable children's pool in the garden - conveniently situated for parents comfort beside the terrace restaurant, where free tea and coffee are always available. With the added attraction of a comfortable lounge with deep sofas, a good selection of international magazines and a mountain view, it is difficult for guests to tear themselves away from The Elephant Crossing!

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Somphanh Sisourath and family

The creator of The Elephant Crossing, Mr Somphanh, chose the name carefully - it recalls the first unified Lao state in the 14th century - the Kingdom of Lane Xang or One Million Elephants. In recent years elephant treks have crossed the river here as visitors use this now vanishing mode of transport to discover the Vang Vieng countryside. Somphanh has connections across the world, but for many years it was his dream to create friendly, affordable accommodation for visitors on the banks of the Nam Song river. A Vientiane native, he studied agriculture in Czechoslovakia and worked for the Ministry of Agriculture and international NGOs in his home city. With his interest in renovation, he spent time restoring colonial era houses in the capital. After further studies in Business Management he decided to realize his dream. First he built the erosion embankment and then the hotel to his own design. His Australian wife Rachel, a longtime Lao resident, has been integral to the project, working on the interior style and the management structures vital to ensuring guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. The time it takes to complete such a project is illustrated by the addition to the family of their two children in time for the hotel's grand opening in 2006!

Traveller Feedback

Score for how travellers see this initiative ... both in terms of impact and commitment.

Not impressed

Fantastic

Mr Paul W.
- Switzerland
on 27 Jan 2011

they offered different sightseeing possibilities. Were helpful but not insisting.

Mr Michael D.
- United States
on 22 Feb 2010

I don't know what "caring for the destination" means???

Mrs Liz S.
- United Kingdom
on 17 Feb 2010

I was not made aware of any evidence of this so I am unable to comment.

Mr Jude B.
- Ireland
on 11 Jan 2010

The hotel management and staff were very knowledgable and provided sound advice on the surrounding area and environment.

Ms Hannah O.
- United Kingdom
on 30 Nov 2009

Concern for sustainable tourism was evident throughout the hotel and I felt very well informed of different ways to minimise my impact on the environment throughout my travels in Laos

Mr Jan V.
- Switzerland
on 26 Nov 2009

none

Mr Rolf v.
- Netherlands
on 10 Dec 2008

Friendly satff, good confortable rooms with balcony.

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