LAOS - Destinations & Hotels
Luang Prabang & surrounds
Luang Prabang was once the capital of an ancient Asian Kingdom known as “Lan Xang” – the Land of a Million Elephants. It covered the whole of present-day Laos plus most of Issarn (northeast Thailand). This royal heritage is still very much in evidence today with over 30 gleaming temples and monasteries in the town centre and thoroughly deserves its UNESCO World Heritage status and its reputation as the spiritual centre of the country. The French colonial era is also still very much in evidence, the smell of freshly baked baguettes, the high ceilinged colonial buildings and even some of the older generation speaking French.
The time to see the town at its best is in the peaceful early mornings, when orange robed monks walk the narrow streets and passageways on their daily ritual collecting alms before returning to one of the many monasteries. One of the many highlight of most trips to Luang Prabang is Wat Xieng Thong, which is adorned with many elaborate mosaics and decorated figurines. A close second to this is the magnificent Wat Phu Si, perched on a hilltop overlooking the mighty Mekong River and affording incredible views to town.
The surrounding area is home to many ethnic minority villages, spectacular waterfalls and some stunning scenery, making the region ideal for all levels of trekking and cycling trips. Luang Prabang is easily accessed by air but also by boat, from Northern Thailand down the Mekong River with stops at hilltribe villages en route. Luang Prabang recently became the first World Heritage Site to ban smoking in all public places including temples, public transport as well as hotels, guesthouses and restaurants.
Luang Prabang & surrounds Hotels
Luang Prabang & surrounds | The Luang Say Residence | $$$$
Luxury
This newly opened resort (Dec 2010) is a welcome addition to the luxury hotel offerings in Luang Prabang. Located within easy reach of the main heritage area The Luang Say Residence is just a 10-minute drive from the International Airport and a twenty minute walk from downtown Luang Prabang.
Luang Prabang & surrounds | Satri House | $$$$
Character Boutique
Satri House Hotel is located in the quiet residential area of Ban That Luang. It’s an easy 15 minutes stroll to walk into the historic town centre and the Royal Palace Museum and Mount Phousi. Satri House was built in 1885, and was a residence of a branch of the Lao royal family and the childhood...
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Luang Prabang & surrounds | Apsara Rive Droite | $$$
Character Boutique, Luxury, Modern Chic
From the same minds behind the elegantly chic Apsara Hotel, The Apsara Rive Droite is a stylish 9-room property on Luang Prabang’s Nam Khan River. Located across the water from the main town, the hotel is a quiet retreat with all the touches of a top luxury property: a fabulous pool, private...
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Luang Prabang & surrounds | Luang Prabang View Resort | $$$$
Honeymoon, Modern Chic
Tucked away on top of a hill overlooking the, beautiful UNESCO World Heritage City of Luang Prabang, the Luang Prabang View Resort is a charming and peaceful oasis that offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Using locally sourced materials the design concept is modern with lots of...
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Luang Prabang & surrounds | The 3 Nagas | $$$$
Character Boutique, Historic Hotel
This stunning little boutique hotel, located right in the city centre, is one of the most-requested hotels in Luang Prabang, so please contact us well in advance to secure a booking. The hotel's 2 buildings have been refurbished with great reverence to the original Lao character using time-honoured...
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Luang Prabang & surrounds | The Apsara | $$$
Character Boutique
This traditional yet funky hotel occupies two rows of Indochinese shop houses, separated by a working shop, and is located right in the middle of town, overlooking the Nam Khan River. It is one of only a few places to stay along this particular river and offers great views, especially at sunrise....
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Luang Prabang & surrounds | La Résidence Phou Vao | $$$$$
Great Spa, Luxury
The hotel enjoys an exceptional location as the only hotel in Luang Prabang built on Phou Vao Hill - translated as the hill of the kites. This unique vantage point affords breathtaking views of the lush surrounding mountains and surrounding World Heritage town of Luang Prabang. La Résidence...
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Luang Prabang & surrounds | Lao Spirit Resort (15 km from LP) | $$
Eco-friendly, Remote location
Reached by an interesting 45 minute drive from Luang Prabang the Lao Spirit Resort is located in an area of outstanding natural beauty. It is the first and only resort project that is based on eco-style bungalows and a historic house restoration philosophy.
Old houses from the French...
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Luang Prabang & surrounds | Maison Souvannaphoum | $$$$
Character Boutique, Historic Hotel
This hotel was once the home to Laotian royalty and is located just off Namphou Square, right in the heart of Luang Prabang. It has easy access to the city’s key attractions such as the Royal Palace, Mekong River and Mount Phu Si, the 100-meter-high rocky outcrop, with its stunning views of...
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Luang Prabang & surrounds | Sala Prabang | $$
Sala Prabang is located on a special site of historic interest in Luang Prabang. The original stone building was built around the 1880’s and was home to the first prime minister of Laos, His Excellency Khammao. It has been renovated to retain its elegance and character and set amongst 4 individual...
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