Paradise Hotel Phong Nha

Paradise Hotel is a family-run hotel in the village of Son Trach, the little riverside town that serves as the base for the Phong Nha-Ke Bang caves. The visitor centre and the main square are about a five minute walk away, which means the cafes, the local restaurants and the offices where cave tours are booked are all close. It is a simple, modest place, and what guests rave about is the friendliness: staff are happy to arrange tours, tickets and onward travel. There are five types of room, all of them a comfortable size for the price. Standard double rooms have a queen bed, and some have balconies with mountain views. Triple rooms combine a twin and a queen bed, and the biggest option is a balcony family room with three queen beds for up to six people. Rooms have air conditioning, a flat-screen television with cable, a refrigerator, a desk and a shower with free toiletries, and daily housekeeping and free WiFi are included.

What the hotel does well is practical help. A concierge and tour desk can arrange cave visits, boat trips on the Son River and bike or scooter rental, and there is luggage storage if you arrive before check-in or want to leave bags while you trek. Free self parking is included, and massage and other spa services are available after a long day of walking or caving. An on-site restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, and guests have enjoyed the mix of Vietnamese and western dishes. The terrace and garden are pleasant places to sit.

For sightseeing, the hotel is well placed. The boats for Phong Nha Cave are a short ride away, and the national park entrance is a few minutes by car. Paradise Cave is about a half-hour drive, so book a driver or rent a scooter if you are comfortable on the roads. Dong Hoi, with the airport and railway station, is around an hour by road. Several cafes and restaurants are a short stroll away, which suits an evening after caving.

Keep your expectations realistic. Guests describe good air conditioning, comfortable beds and spacious rooms, although a few have noted that cleanliness and room comfort could be better, so ask to see the room if you are particular. In-room safes are not always provided, so use the front desk for valuables. Check-in begins around midday and check-out is at noon, and pets are not allowed. Some rates include free cancellation, so check the terms when you book.

Choose Paradise Hotel if you want a friendly, inexpensive base within walking distance of the village centre and you value staff who will sort out tours and transport. It is less suited to travellers who want a pool or a polished resort. Book early for the dry season, from spring to late summer, when the caves are busiest.