Over the lunar new year, we escaped to Laos for much-needed sunshine and relaxation. Finding a place that was both affordable and paradise-like was hard to come by until we stumbled upon the perfect retreat in Vientiane, the capital of Laos.

We discovered Jungle House on Airbnb and Mr. Mike Boddington was quick and reliable with communication.

Unlike most guest houses, you pay a total price at Jungle House which includes an assortment of excitable events.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included (if you are present) as well as free pick up and drop off at the airport. Then, two history tours are available for those staying beyond 3 days; a Vientiane city tour where you’ll also see the lovely French quarter, and a fully guided tour by Mike himself, of the COPE Visitor Centre. (Your visit to COPE will surely be as authentic as it can get. Mike formed the COPE Visitor Centre in  1997 in agreement between the Lao PDR Ministry of Health and a group of NGO’s including Power, World Vision and the Cambodian School of Prosthetics and Orthotics.)

Why is Jungle House our new favourite place in the world?

Because it feels like home away from home. 

Mike and his gorgeous Lao wife Xoukiet, aka Mrs Boddington or Dr. X (she’s a doctor who now works with the UN!), open their larger-than-life home to people from all walks of life, offering an oasis to revive and relax.

To top it all off, the food is delicious and oh so wholesome! Breakfast is a buffet of freshly brewed coffee (yay for us coffee lovers!), traditional Laos sticky rice, croissants, and fruits. Dinner is cooked with love by the sweet Xoukiet. We enjoyed chicken curry, double-fried spring rolls, and sunflower sprouts during our stay. Mike also serves his famous “Bodgintonic” at sunset every evening where you’ll find yourself amongst true, intellectual and fascinating conversation until it’s time for bed.

With the large beautifully manicured gardens, fruit trees dispersed around the property and friendly butterfly families, this Laotion temple is the perfect retreat for you if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Mike and Xoukiet, thank you for your uncompromising hospitality and hugs! We can’t wait for our next visit!

Friends, what’s your favourite place to retreat to when you need a break? Please let us know in the comments below!

Remember, life is what you make of it!

Carmia and Jochemus

P.S.: We created a short introduction video of Jungle House with our brand new DJI MAVIC PRO! Go take a look here —> Welcome to Jungle House