The creator of The Elephant Crossing, Mr Somphanh, chose the name carefully - it recalls the first unified Lao state in the 14th century - the Kingdom of Lane Xang or One Million Elephants. In recent years elephant treks have crossed the river here as visitors use this now vanishing mode of transport to discover the Vang Vieng countryside. Somphanh has connections across the world, but for many years it was his dream to create friendly, affordable accommodation for visitors on the banks of the Nam Song river. A Vientiane native, he studied agriculture in Czechoslovakia and worked for the Ministry of Agriculture and international NGOs in his home city. With his interest in renovation, he spent time restoring colonial era houses in the capital. After further studies in Business Management he decided to realize his dream. First he built the erosion embankment and then the hotel to his own design. His Australian wife Rachel, a longtime Lao resident, has been integral to the project, working on the interior style and the management structures vital to ensuring guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. The time it takes to complete such a project is illustrated by the addition to the family of their two children in time for the hotel's grand opening in 2006!

With their long involvement in Lao rural and economic development, Somphanh and his family have been keen to build The Elephant Crossing using sustainable methods. They contribute to a triple-bottom line in terms of sustainability meaning they have an positive impact on the environment, culture and society. The building structure of the Elephant Crossing has utilised many sustainability techniques. Timber pillars were reclaimed from the nearby flooded Nam Ngum Lake for use on the accommodation, and the bedroom floors are made of traditional woods from reclaimed old buildings. Furnishing, fabrics and interiors have also been locally sourced wherever possible.

The Elephant Crossing Hotel and Teamworkz Consulting are working together to provide their guests with an easy-to-use and fully functional website with online booking capability.