Phonsavan has several large modern hotels that cater to Chinese and Lao business and the opened in December 2017, Lao-owned Favanh Mai is one of these. With a location on the main street, just 700 metres east of the tourist strip and a walk-in rate that’s a deal, it is worth including.
Six-storey Favanh Mai delivers flash comforts and modern Lao hotel style. That means a lift, laminate wood flooring, purpose built dark wood furniture, large windows with dark curtains that do a good job blocking out light, a bed with soft, white cotton linens and bedside tables.
The well lit bathroom has contemporary fixtures, a sink and countertop, shower stall with two types of shower heads and a robust hot water heater. This is all a far cry from the typical guesthouse wetroom you may encounter elsewhere in Phonsavan. Other extras include air-con, WiFi, kettle, flatscreen TV, desk and mini bar. The VIP rooms have a heater and bathtub. Free tea and coffee is available in the lobby.
We inspected several rooms in March 2018 and everything was looking fresh and gleaming at the time. Keep in mind that unless there’s proper maintenance, these types of hotels don’t age well and typically fade quickly. Until then, Favanh Mai is a good option for travellers seeking creature comforts or backpackers with less a restrictive budget who don’t mind being 700 metres from the restaurants, cafes, bars and UXO visitor centres.
