Of all the places I find myself longing to return during the restless coronavirus crisis, I’m wishing I was in Laos. This is a reminder from our last trip there about a year ago.
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How to Get to Luang Prabang
Cutting through the mountains from nearby Bangkok was a delightful entrance to Luang Prabang. Now offering visa-on-arrival for many westerners, the airport is the fastest and easiest way to come to the city (bring passport-sized photos and about $25-35 USD.)
Major Alliances (Skyteam: Vietnam Airlines, China Eastern, Star Alliance: Thai)
If you are flying in from overseas you will have a connection elsewhere in Asia. Some carriers partner with Lao Airlines, others with Bangkok Airways from BKK.
Consider the discounters
Flying from Don Muang Airport (DMK) just north of Bangkok proper, Air Asia was our chosen carrier and offered roundtrips close-in to our travel dates for around $150USD roundtrip.
Kuang Si Waterfall
Just a little outside of the city (less than 20 miles from the Sofitel, 15 from the Pullman – about 45-60 minute drive) is the stunning Kuang Si Falls. Outside the complex are a series of restaurants and tourist shops with local goods, admission to the falls is 20,000 kip (about $2.30.) At the base of the Falls is a bear rescue and educational facility.
Mount Phou Si Sunset
The climb to the top of Mount Phou Si is just over 300 stairs at an incline of 100 meters. The steps wind visitors to the top where they will be treated to Wat Chom Si, a working Buddhist temple and accompanying Stupa. High over the Mekong river, it’s the perfect place to catch the sunset, however, those who want an unobstructed view should arrive early as crowds pack the area from an hour before sunset.
Night Markets
Night markets of Southeast Asia are a fond tradition for my family. Conveniently located in the middle of the old city and at the base exit from Mount Phou Si, visitors will find local food, souvenirs from handmade to made in China. Like the rest of Asian night markets, expect to haggle some, at least one third from the starting price (if not more.)
3 Nagas Restaurant
A favorite restaurant in the city was the 3 Nagas restaurant, offered by M Gallery hotels. The restaurant offers Laos cuisine with some French fusion in spots. Handmade ice cream and premium cocktails accompany teak from top to bottom. Snag a seat outside to dine under the lanterns that hang in the trees and people watch amongst locals and classic foreign luxury cars.
Stay: Sofitel Luang Prabang
Step back in time in the former French Governor’s mansion, the Sofitel Luang Prabang. Colonial heritage with modern amenities makes it the ultimate place to wind down after a busy day at the sights. The hotel, which offers less than 30 rooms and suites and excellent service is also a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.
Have you been to Luang Prabang, Laos? What should we add to our list for our next visit? Where have you found yourself wanting to return?
Are there no entry restrictions for foreign travelers into Laos at the moment?
I love Luana Prabang and have many fond memories. It feels like time travel.
BUT I can’t imagine visiting night markets for a LONG time anywhere. I was already wary but now it’s downright dangerous.
I went a few years ago over Christmas / New Years holiday. The food was amazing. Every meal was memorable. I actually wish they had more Lao restaurants in the US. The crowds were horrendous (as your sunset photo shows). I flew up and took a 2 day boat trip back to Chiang Rai. There’s lots more Laos to explore and I hope to go back someday.
By reading this articles and from other’s common, I wanted to go back to Laos some day.
Since I left Laos in 1989 as a refuge to United States. I know Laos probably changes alot both politically, economically. Once day, I’m hoping to have the chance to go back with my wife and our two son to experinces the history, culture, lifestyle and and Lao food.
Luang Prabang is very nice but tourism has overwhelmed Luang Prabang. In recent years there have been too many tourists Nov – April. Suggest go in off season June – September. And there are many other nice places in Laos. Such as Pakse in the south or Xieng Khoung. Phong Saly or Bokeo or Luang Namtha in the north. Travel restrictions remain due to COVID virus.
I used to go before it opened to tourists ( lucky I had a friend in construction to facilitate an invite as a consultant, as a tourist visa didn’t exist), ie mid 80s- mid 90s. It was just about the last place on earth to buy Chinese ceramics at reasonable prices.
It was a charming place then.
Do you think it will be possible to visit Luang Prabang in July or August?