Quiet, clean, lovely spot with hot showers and adorable bungalows and garden right on the river. I was very happy with my stay and would return.
On the downside the beds are quite firm as is standard in Laos (except for Luang Prabang) and there are many chickens crowing in the morning, but if you can’t handle it, Nong Khiaw is not the place for you, as their are chickens everywhere and no place is immune. The chickens are a great alarm clock because there is really no night life, and Phaxang is a tranquil nature setting with a beautiful breakfast spot and magnificent cliffs right on the Ou. A bit out of town which was fine with me as I prefer a quiet place. It’s right across from the bus station which makes it very convenient. I really enjoyed my stay.