We have spent three nights in Symoungkoun Guesthouse and had a great time! We arrived at 3 am without reservation and woke up the guy from the reception who offered us a room. Nice clean room, good price and close to al the facilities of town. There is no bar or common TV-room, but there is no need to because of the good location. Great staff who recommended nice trips and even send our lost stuff back to the Netherlands! Thanks for the nice stay guys! Joost & Sonja from Holland

I'm not sure if my less positive review (versus the other reviews on this page) is purely due to being significantly overcharged for our room at New Year but as far as I know, most places were charging a premium and there were better value places about. If I'd only paid $10 - $15 then it would have been an OK room but I expected much more than we got for $30 a night.

Our room was on the ground floor and didn't have a window (which we don't mind but they're usually the cheaper rooms). The room was quite tatty and small with twin beds, a TV with a couple of English channels, and a small bathroom with showerhead. Decor was nothing special.

Location was quiet, yes, but a bit of a walk from the main street of restaurants and bars and the night market. Staff were friendly enough.

This guest house is located at the northern end of the peninsula very near the tourist part of the town and directly opposite the Wat where the monks gather alms. We arrived on a slowboat from Pak Beng at 5:45pm and found a tuk-tuk at the top of the pier to take us straight to the place. We had room 4 at the front with one double and one single bed, air-con, tv and private shower-room/toilet for three nights over Christmas at US$15 per night. Staff were very helpful and courteous and spoke good English. The temple was a little noisy at 4am but we got used to it. Although basic, it was perfectly suitable for us and excellent value for money.

Not really much more I can add,good value for money,5min walk to river,friendly staff. Staff it appears have been told not to be so enthusiastic over trying to book tours. If tours are booked,they are the same price as travel agents etc. Also the hotel arranges pick up service to take you tour bus or boat,no extra cost. Airport pick ups can be arranged.The manager of this guest house also manages the MuongLao Guest House,which I have stayed in as well. Its a little bit dearer,but still good value. See Trip Advisor write up.He also manages a restuarant within walking distance of both hotels,but nearer to the Symoungkoun Guest House. I have found that with many years of travelling to many countries,that if you have any problems that irritate you or cannot be fixed by reception etc ask to talk to the manager,in this case Mr. Tharvone. Will stay again. Ray New Zealand