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 | La Résidence Phou Vao | $$$$$
Great Spa, Luxury
The hotel enjoys an exceptional location as the only hotel in Luang Prabang built on Phou Vao Hill - translated as the hill of the kites. This unique vantage point affords breathtaking views of the lush surrounding mountains and surrounding World Heritage town of Luang Prabang. La Résidence...
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Luang Prabang & surrounds | The Apsara | $$$
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 | The 3 Nagas | $$$$
Character Boutique, Historic Hotel
This stunning little boutique hotel, located right in the city centre, is one of the most-requested hotels in Luang Prabang, so please contact us well in advance to secure a booking. The hotel's 2 buildings have been refurbished with great reverence to the original Lao character using time-honoured...
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Luang Prabang & surrounds | Maison Souvannaphoum | $$$$
Character Boutique, Historic Hotel
This hotel was once the home to Laotian royalty and is located just off Namphou Square, right in the heart of Luang Prabang. It has easy access to the city’s key attractions such as the Royal Palace, Mekong River and Mount Phu Si, the 100-meter-high rocky outcrop, with its stunning views of...
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Luang Prabang & surrounds | Villa Laodeum | $
This little guesthouse is located directly on the street that is also home to the famous night bazaar, just steps away from many of the best bars and restaurants in town as well as being meters away from the Mekong River and the Royal Palace. There is also an interesting temple just behind the...
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Luang Prabang & surrounds | The Grand Luang Prabang (4kms from LP) | $$$
Remote location
This historic hotel is situated on grounds of the Xiengkeo Palace which belonged to a famous hero of Luang Prabang, Prince Phetsarath. He chose the location for tranquillity, its dramatic views of the mighty Mekong River and the remarkable mountainous landscape surrounding Luang Prabang. It is...
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Luang Prabang & surrounds | The Santi Resort & Spa (6km from LP) | $$$
Remote location
The Santi Resort & Spa is situated 6km from the town centre and should not be confused with the original, centrally located sister property Villa Santi Hotel.
This resort sits in over 10 hectares of beautifully landscaped gardens, surrounded by mountains and natural streams about...
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Luang Prabang & surrounds | Lao Spirit Resort (15 km from LP) | $$
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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