Crowne Plaza Vientiane by IHG — Hotel in Vientiane Capital

In the heart of Vientiane, there stands a hotel that takes the concept of 'chilling out' a bit too literally – the Crowne Plaza. It’s an establishment under the esteemed IHG banner, but its standards would be better suited to an igloo than a luxury hotel.

Now, let me regale you with the tale of the 'Ice Age En-suite'. My stay began with a frigid surprise, an arctic rush from what was supposed to be a hot shower. My spirit dampened, and not just from the cold water, I decided to approach the management, naively hoping for a solution.

You see, dear reader, this is where our plot thickens. The hotel was aware of the boiler issue, but conveniently chose to omit this minor detail when I checked in, depriving me of the option to seek warmer lodgings. When confronted, they feigned ignorance, claiming they'd 'just' discovered the problem and had sent out a letter describing the situation. This letter, much like the hot water, must have evaporated, as it never made its way to me.

Their estimated repair time was a breezy six hours, an inconvenience, but bearable. However, the reality proved to be a glacial wait of more than triple that time. And when the water finally deigned to heat up, were we informed? Of course not. That would have been too warm a gesture.

The manager’s suggestions were as helpful as a chocolate teapot. Not only was there no feasible way to get hot water, but they also had the audacity to state that since other floors had no problem, the hotel was essentially functioning well. Their final piece of advice was a true gem: “Endure the cold water.” I couldn't help but marvel at this enlightenment.

Our cold showers, coupled with the hotel's even colder demeanor, led to an unfortunate souvenir from our stay - a nasty cold. The Crowne Plaza Vientiane's chilling hospitality has, unfortunately, left a lasting impact on our loyalty to IHG. As Diamond members, we expected a certain level of service. But after this experience, we have decided to put our loyalty on ice, at least in certain countries.

So, if you’re planning a stay at the Crowne Plaza Vientiane, pack your thermals, patience, and a sense of humor that doesn’t freeze over easily. Because at this hotel, the only thing you’ll be showered with is a cold,...

In the heart of Vientiane, there stands a hotel that takes the concept of 'chilling out' a bit too literally – the Crowne Plaza. It’s an establishment under the esteemed IHG banner, but its standards would be better suited to an igloo than a luxury hotel.

Now, let me regale you with the tale of the 'Ice Age En-suite'. My stay began with a frigid surprise, an arctic rush from what was supposed to be a hot shower. My spirit dampened, and not just from the cold water, I decided to approach the management, naively hoping for a solution.

You see, dear reader, this is where our plot thickens. The hotel was aware of the boiler issue, but conveniently chose to omit this minor detail when I checked in, depriving me of the option to seek warmer lodgings. When confronted, they feigned ignorance, claiming they'd 'just' discovered the problem and had sent out a letter describing the situation. This letter, much like the hot water, must have evaporated, as it never made its way to me.

Their estimated repair time was a breezy six hours, an inconvenience, but bearable. However, the reality proved to be a glacial wait of more than triple that time. And when the water finally deigned to heat up, were we informed? Of course not. That would have been too warm a gesture.

The manager’s suggestions were as helpful as a chocolate teapot. Not only was there no feasible way to get hot water, but they also had the audacity to state that since other floors had no problem, the hotel was essentially functioning well. Their final piece of advice was a true gem: “Endure the cold water.” I couldn't help but marvel at this enlightenment.

Our cold showers, coupled with the hotel's even colder demeanor, led to an unfortunate souvenir from our stay - a nasty cold. The Crowne Plaza Vientiane's chilling hospitality has, unfortunately, left a lasting impact on our loyalty to IHG. As Diamond members, we expected a certain level of service. But after this experience, we have decided to put our loyalty on ice, at least in certain countries.

So, if you’re planning a stay at the Crowne Plaza Vientiane, pack your thermals, patience, and a sense of humor that doesn’t freeze over easily. Because at this hotel, the only thing you’ll be showered with is a cold,...

This hotel is the newest in Vientiane, Laos.

Property is shiny and it has all facilities what are needed for vacation or business stays.

Rooms are bright and fresh, however about 65% of floor is covered with carpet, why these dust collectors are still installed?

Spa, hmm... no price information anywhere.

Fitness room is excellent. All latest equipment with bells and whistles.

Swimming pool is good size and can be used for laps. Water is freezing cold and would be cool to get to sauna before hypothermia.

Sauna not in use, really huge disappointment.

Location

Bit remote but nothing serious. Night market and all main attractions in a city can be reached by walking. Mom's Mart across a street is what I am little bit worried. Cars and motorbikes drive about 100 km/h on that road. Someone will die sooner or later if no traffic lights or security guard is assigned to duty.

Why only 2 stars?

Our first night bathroom lights above and side of mirror couldn't turned off. Milky glass door between bathroom and bed caused the whole room being lighted. Took 2 hours from 2 am to 4 am to get staff to reset room main switch and turn lights off. Next day the main board was changed. But for 2 nights stay 50% was lost already.

Staff

They are lovely. They obviously are happy what they are doing. And they are studying English. Thumbs up!

Restaurants

Breakfast if top quality, excellent, superb. Only missing sushi and recognition for IHG members.

3 Merchants has nice interior. We ate everything Laotian on menu and was not happy. Service and presentation were excellent but food lacked of taste. Just beautiful but bland.

They do have maybe 20 lists for food. Different menu for breakfast, lunch, dinner, buffet, pool, room service and for ... too many. For every restaurant, makes that 3 times.

And they cannot prepare fish. Any kind of fish.

Oh, 3 Merchants chef's avocado and cucumber special...