The Seng Lao was just what we were looking for as we had decided to check out of the Lane Xang (see review). It was closer to the centre of things, in an interesting building (an ex-cinema) and had a board out the front saying "Opening Specials". It turns out it has been open nearly a year but the special price is still only US$23 a night for a room with a/c, cable TV, a decent shower and good beds.

The lady who runs the place (whose name I regret not getting) is very cheery and helpful and has excellent English. Our room was on the third floor and there is no lift or bellboy so it may not appeal to everyone but the room was clean and comfortable.

There's nothing else included - no breakfast, no phone etc but that doesn't matter. There's about 10 good places to eat within 100m of the front door and your mobile phone will work fine (at least if you're Australian).