Thuong Hai Hotel

Thuong Hai Hotel stands in Son Trach, in the heart of the Phong Nha tourist village, about a seven minute walk from the visitor centre and square. It is a bigger and more fully equipped hotel than most guesthouses in the area, and it is rated as a three-class property with a strong guest score. Cafes and restaurants are close at hand, and guests mention that the boats to Phong Nha Cave are a short walk away, which makes the first morning easy. The hotel offers seven room types, from a deluxe double with a mountain view to twins with a balcony and river view, a superior twin with two king beds, and family and triple rooms that sleep up to six. Rooms have air conditioning, a private shower, free toiletries, a hair dryer, a television with cable and a wardrobe. Free WiFi and daily housekeeping are included, and there is a lift, which is not common in the village.

Facilities are what set it apart. There is an outdoor pool, a welcome sight after a day of trekking in tropical heat, as well as a terrace, a garden and a bar. A restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, and breakfast is included in many rates, with guests praising the fresh spread. A billiards table, bike hire and a tour and ticket desk round things out, and an airport shuttle can be arranged for a fee. Free self parking is included.

The location suits cave-hopping. The national park entrance and Phong Nha Cave are about a six to twelve minute drive, Paradise Cave is about a half-hour away and Dong Hoi, with the airport and railway links, is around an hour by road. Staff are known for being friendly and for helping with tours, transport and bookings, and the surrounding streets have plenty of places to eat, so you can wander out for dinner and a cold drink.

Guest feedback is largely positive, with high marks for staff, location and breakfast, and spacious rooms. Some recent visitors have mentioned damp bedding or worn bathrooms in particular rooms, so it is worth asking for a room that has been recently refreshed, and checking the room when you arrive. Beds can be firm.

Check-in runs from the afternoon until midnight, and after-hours arrival is not available, so tell the hotel if you will be late. Check-out is at ten in the morning, with late check-out for a fee when available. Pets are not allowed, and the lift and pool make it popular with groups, so check the terms and room details when you book.

Choose Thuong Hai Hotel if you want a pool, a bar and a lift in the middle of Phong Nha village, at a modest price, and you are travelling as a family or with friends. It is less suited to guests who want a quiet jungle lodge or a boutique style. Book early for the dry season and for weekends and holidays.