This offering is more about unique style than five star rating. Satri means 'House of Women' and it is a woman, Lamphoune Voravongsa who has put it all together. Returning from exile in France she set up a successful jewellery and silk business in Vientiane. Then the tourists started coming. Luang Prabang became the new Siem Riep and she opened a branch of her boutique there too. When she spotted this colonial mansion in a state of disrepair the word 'boutique' got a new meaning for her - as in 'boutique retreat'. This traditional Lao house has been furnished with antiques, carving and curios. Bright silk cushions sourced by the owner (it is her business after all) stand out against off white walls. Shutters hang slightly askew on the windows as if any minute the jungle could come and take over.

In 2009, more old colonial buildings were renovated and the hotel now has 25 rooms and seven junior suites but The Luxury Travel Bible likes the three Satri House Suites with their large wooden balconies and deep bath tubs. This is the Lao version of shabby chic. Don't expect slick, do expect character.