My Dream Boutique Resort: From temple student to visionary business owner
Vientiane Times is publishing a series of articles on Visit Laos Year 2024.

What does it take to turn a dream into reality? For Somneuk Bounsa, a young boy from Xieng Ngern district in Luang Prabang province, it took resilience, passion, and relentless determination.

Mr Somneuk.

In 1998, Somneuk arrived in Luang Prabang, leaving his village in search of a better life. Today, he is the proud owner of My Dream Boutique Resort, a sanctuary of tranquility and elegance on the banks of the Nam Khan river.
Like many young people from remote districts, Somneuk sought to build a brighter future after finishing high school.
“I came to Luang Prabang when it was just starting to attract tourists,” he recalls. “I began by studying English at a temple while working in a restaurant to support myself.”
His journey saw him take on various roles, from restaurant worker and tour guide to receptionist and hotel general manager. It was during those early years, serving foreign tourists, that Somneuk discovered his passion for the hospitality industry. He worked tirelessly to improve his English skills and master the art of exceptional service.
“I realised that tourism was growing and saw an opportunity in it. My love for hospitality kept me going, even during tough times.”
His dedication opened doors to opportunities with several high-end hotels in Luang Prabang. These experiences refined his understanding of the industry and fueled his ambition to create something of his own.
With his savings and the unwavering support of his wife, Somneuk began turning his vision into reality. However, construction costs exceeded his budget, testing his determination. But Somneuk’s perseverance inspired those around him. “A foreign friend, impressed by my honesty and determination, offered me an interest-free loan to complete the project. I was able to repay it within six years.”

A guest enjoys meal at resort’s restaurant.

A delectable meal is served at the resort.

My Dream Boutique Resort was established in 2010 and opened to the public in 2012. “We named it My Dream Boutique Resort because I believe everyone has a dream. The name symbolises devotion, passion, and the hard work required to achieve one’s goals,” Somneuk explains.
The journey, however, was not without challenges. Like many businesses in the hospitality sector, the resort faced significant difficulties during the Covid-19 pandemic. Yet, with the patience and unwavering support of his employees, Somneuk and his team demonstrated resilience and adaptability.
With 25 years of experience in the industry, Somneukhas developed a unique approach to managing his business. “We often hear that customers are Gods, but here, we believe employees are Gods. We highly value our employees because they are the ones who make our guests feel at home.”
The resort invests in regular staff training and employs a professional manager to maintain high standards.
“Our primary guests are Westerners, but we’ve seen a growing number of Chinese travellers, who now make up about 20 percent of our clientele,” Somneuk said.
Nestled away from the bustling streets of Luang Prabang, My Dream Boutique Resort is a serene retreat surrounded by lush gardens and traditional Lao architecture. The resort’s thoughtfully designed rooms feature handmade furnishings, soft linens, and private balconies overlooking either the tranquil Nam Khan river or the vibrant gardens.
Guests can enjoy a leisurely breakfast on the outdoor terrace, indulge in a traditional Lao massage at the on-site spa, or take a refreshing dip in the infinity pool with breathtaking views. The resort’s restaurant serves an enticing blend of local and Western cuisine, ensuring there’s something for every palate.

My Dream Boutique Resort.

One guest, Woody from Belgium, described the resort as “a secret place”. “Every corner is beautiful, from the gardens to the wooden architecture. It’s comfortable, calm, relaxing, and feels like home. I like it here very much.”

Beyond offering luxury, My Dream Boutique Resort is committed to sustainability. The resort incorporates eco-friendly practices such as using solar energy, sourcing ingredients locally, and minimising plastic usage. These efforts reflect Somneuk’s vision of responsible tourism that supports the local community and preserves the natural environment.
Located just a short distance from the town centre, the resort offers complimentary shuttles to the vibrant streets of Luang Prabang.
For added convenience, the resort provides pickup services from the railway station and airport, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Somneuk’s journey from temple student to a successful entrepreneur is an inspiring tale of determination and vision. My Dream Boutique Resort is not just a place to stay—it’s a reflection of his belief that dreams, when pursued with love and hard work, can indeed come true. For travellers seeking an intimate and authentic experience in Luang Prabang, My Dream Boutique Resort offers a harmonious blend of luxury, tradition, and heartfelt hospitality.
It’s a place where every detail tells a story, and every moment feels like a dream come true.

One of the luxurious bungalows at My Dream.

By Keoxomphou Sakdavong
 (Latest Update December 17, 2024)