Luang Prabang, Laos

Luang Prabang is situated in northern Laos on the banks of the Mekong-river. It is a UNESCO world heritage site because of its excellently preserved colonial architecture and many wats (Buddhist temples).

In Luang Prabang you should at least see the stylish and harmonious Royal Palace with its historical treasures. Climbing up on the temple hill rewards the traveller with outstanding views of the Mekong-river, the town and the surrounding country-side. The monks of the temple hill are happy to tell you about the history of the region and present day life in Laos because they can practise their English at the same time.

In the town there are quite a few Paris-style delicacies cafes, where you can enjoy delicious food and coffee for a dime. Lao-style food is of course also on offer in many small restaurants. On the night market you can buy beautiful and affordable fabrics and artistic handicraft made by Hmong, Mien and Thai minority tribes. Bargaining is part of business-making in Laos.

There is an international airport in Luang Prabang, but it is much more exciting to arrive there by a slow boat or fast boat from Huay Xai in the border area of Laos, Thailand and Burma ("the Golden Triangle"). We prefer the fast boat because it is, well, much faster and more exciting than the REALLY slow “slow boat”. On the other hand, the fast boat is supposedly quite dangerous, so the choice is yours as always.