I stayed in the 5 person "penthouse" suite for 20$ night. it had its own balconey and shower. however, the toilet was in the hallway.
I would recommend making reservations as half the hotel is booked by Lao Airlines for the next 6 months. You'll see pilots and flight attendants coming and going on a daily basis. it is very clean and in a good lao neighbourhood away from the touristy strip.

if you're looking to give alms, the Vat Mano monks pass right in front of the Mano guest house 6-6:15AM every morning. They are one of the poorer temples so I preferred to give my offerings to these 30some monks than the huge procession that happens near the centre.

across the street frm the mano guesthouse is a congee(70-80cents if you have it with a donut) store that serves the local morning rush hour - students on their way to school, tour operators..etc. they close at 8:30AM. two stores from it is a restuarant that serves fried white noodle or rice (1-1.50) and local desserts (30-40cents). this guesthouse may be off the strip but as a result, you get more of the local flavour. much of which is already being painted over with foreign investment in the more touristy parts of town.