In any other place, awaking to the cries of roosters and motoring boats might induce some irritation. But on this mystical island of Don Det, 1 of 4 Thousand surrounded by the Mekong river in Southern Laos, it’s simply soothing. The whole ambiance of this place invokes a kind of nostalgia for childhood, and reminds one of the simple life that we should all be living.
In my search for the best accommodation on Don Det, for “The Runaway Guide To Southeast Asia Tour,” I decided to try and stay at as many places as I could. For the first week I stayed at multiple bungalows. Some of them were on the sunrise side, others offered views of the sunset, and while all of them were cheap, they were also pretty basic with lumpy beds. Then I came across Little Eden.
What Is Little Eden?
Little Eden really stands apart from the rickety bungalows that pepper the island. It’s the only place with rooms that rival any mid to high range hotel in Europe or the US. More, being located at the northern tip of the island, it offers one of the most tremendous views of the sunset over the Mekong.
View from the river perched restaurant
The Rooms
Although the rooms are relatively expensive they’re still cheaper than most hostel dorms in Europe. More, the owner, a super nice guy named Mathew from Belgium and is willing to offer a 6$ discount for people on the SE Asia Tour!
The Standard room is a perfect size. It contains a hot water shower, AC, and most importantly a large firm bed with cozy linens. It’s high build quality means it’s very secure, and you don’t have to worry about your valuables when you go out for the day. Price: 31$.
The Deluxe room is definitely deluxe. It’s got a flat screen TV, spacious bathroom, and the décor is Zen like. Price: 40$.
The Food
The menu offers a full array of Laos and Western dishes. Although it’s relatively expensive compared to a local restaurant, the food is outstanding and the view from the restaurant is even more so. Try the chicken breast with mash potatoes and gravy. One of the best gravies I’ve tasted.
Incredible Belgian style mashed potatoes and gravy.
How To Get To Little Eden
There are two main docks by which you may arrive on Don Det. If you arrive at the dock in the village, you need to take a right and walk along the riverside path. After 10 minutes you’ll reach the end and see a sign for Little Eden.
If you arrive at the northern tip, you’re basically already there. Just look out for the sign and follow the path.
Sunset beers with travel bloggers
Conclusion
Although I do love the backpacker bungalows, sometimes it’s nice to indulge in a proper room with a bed that’s free of insects. If you’re coming to Don Det and looking for comfort and epic sunset views, there really is no other option than Little Eden. To book a room, you can contact them through their website, Little Eden Guest House Don Det, or give Mathew a call at +856 20777 39045.
After traveling around for so long definitely want to treat yourself to something nice. Looks like a great place to be.
Yea, it really was. Nice to sleep in AC once in a while.