Journeys in Laos
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Laos Tours and Cruises
"I originally backpacked around the Far East in 1998 and the place I love is Laos. It is the hidden gem of Asia that few visit. Where the stunning rivers and mountain backdrop bring the place to life, from temples to waterfalls and the monks in the early hours of the morning lining the streets of Luang Prabang for ‘Almsgiving’ to receive food from the locals."
Paul Taylor
one of our Far East Experts
Call our Far East team on 0844 488 1123 or send us an enquiry
Things to do and see
LUANG PRABANG
Luang Prabang is the jewel of Laos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. The ancient royal city has dozens of temples and religious sites, both large and small. The best way to see these sites is on foot or by bicycle. The biggest concentration of temples is in the old quarter, much of which forms a peninsula between the Mekong and the Khan rivers. The Wat Xieng temple is the most stunning in the city, richly decorated with coloured glass and gold. The Royal Palace, now a museum, houses a collection of artefacts belonging to former rulers of the Kingdom of Lane Xang,whose capital was Luang Prabang. In between temple and palace visits, there are many small restaurants perched high on the banks of the Mekong where you can watch life go by at a very slow pace.....
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SOUTHERN LAOS
The captivating landscapes of southern Laos conjure up some of the most beguiling and enchanting of images. Here, amidst a tableau of fishing villages and lush jungles, the mighty Mekong becomes the serene and undiscovered backwaters of Si Phan Don, the land of 4,000 islands. Highlights of this area include the Bolaven Plateau with its pleasant climate, tea and coffee plantations, dramatic waterfalls and ethnic minority villages. A particularly relaxing way to explore the region is by cruise on board the Vat Phou (see opposite page for further details). The small city of Pakse is the main hub for the region with direct flights from Vientiane or Siem Reap in Cambodia, or via nearby Ubon Ratchatani just across the border in Thailand.....
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THE PLAIN OF JARS
Explore the mystery that is the Plain of Jars. There are over 500 jars carved out of solid stone and spread over 3 sites –The jars vary in size from 1 to 3 metres in height, with the largest 2.7 metres in diameter. The heaviest jar weighs 6 tons. The purpose of the Jars, thought to have been carved around 3,000 years ago, remains a mystery to archaeologists even today. There have been recent UNESCO sponsored projects to determine the history of the jars, but much remains to be explained. The Plain of Jars area was unfortunately off limits for many years after the conflicts of the 1960s and 1970s due to a high number of unexploded bombs in the area. The area has been gradually cleared, although visitors are asked to keep to the footpaths when exploring the sites.....
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VIENTIANE
Delightfully serene, the enchanting Laotian capital is a city of colonial grandeur and beautiful gilded temples besides the banks of the Mekong. There is little of the frantic pace of other Asian cities about this attractive city and its tree-lined boulevards hide a wealth of colonial and historic monuments, including the That Luang stupa, the most revered site in the country and a potent symbol of Lao nationalism, said to hold relics of the Buddha himself.....
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Laos Extention
Discover Vientiane, the pleasant capital of Laos, where visits will include Wat Phra Keo, Wat Si Saket (the oldest temple still standing in the city) and Pha That Luang. Onwards to Luang Prabang, the jewel of Laotian tourism, full of historic temples and old style French-colonial buildings, in a delightful setting surrounded by mountains. A visit will be made to the Royal Palace (now a museum) before taking a boat trip on the Mekong River to see the Pak Ou Caves, which house hundreds of Buddha statues. A visit is included to the nearby H'mong hilltribe village where you can witness the traditional practices of the ethnic minority peoples of the area.We have selected 2 excellent hotels for you to stay in: the colonial- style in Vientiane, built at the beginning Settha Palace of the 20th century and recently restored; and the Villa Santi in Luang Prabang, a charming boutique hotel with just 24 rooms decorated in charming Royal Laotian style.....
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THE VAT PHOU CRUISE, SOUTHERN LAOS
A converted traditional river barge, the Vat Phou operates along a stretch of the Mekong near Pakse in southern Laos. Comprising of 12 comfortable, air-conditioned cabins, all with private bathrooms, it presents the perfect setting for a relaxing 3-day cruise along the ‘Mother of Waters’, taking in the majesty of the 10th century temple of Wat Phou at Champasak, as well as the stunning landscapes of the ‘4,000 islands’. The vessel also features a deck with an open area for relaxation and a restaurant serving delicious regional cuisine.....
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MAISON SOUVANNAPHOUM LUANG
Award-winning style, intimate luxury and oldworld charm are all on offer at the Maison Souvannaphoum, the perfect base to explore the charms of Luang Prabang. The former residence of the Laotian royalty, the superb facilities and elegant design of this historic building boasts spacious grandeur and colonial décor, making this stylish boutique hotel one of the finest in the city. The beautifully appointed rooms look out onto a lovely garden, where the hotel boasts a chic poolside restaurant and the indulgent splendours of a spa.....
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LA RESIDENCE PHOU VAO LUANG PRABANG
Set amongst the landscapes of the Phou Vao hills and offering a refreshing blend of modern design and Lao-French colonialism, this exquisite boutique hotel was once the home of Prince Souvannaphoum. Restored to its former glory and one of Luang Prabang’s premier properties, La Residence offers a range of elegant rooms and suites, furnished in rosewood and fine cottons, with marble baths, private terraces and stunning views of the hills. Boasting the finest cuisine in the city, the hotel also affords the luxury of a superb spa.....
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SETTHA PALACE HOTEL VIENTIANE
Built at the end of the 19th century, the Settha Palace Hotel in Vientiane is now restored to its former charm. The French colonial architecture combined with period furniture and landscaped gardens complemented by modern facilities are just some of the features of this historical landmark in the heart of Vientiane. The hotel is located right in the city centre and features 30 guestrooms and suites. Rooms have high ceilings and polished wooden flooring, rosewood four-poster beds with duvets and down pillows, in-room safe, satellite TV,minibar and IDD telephone.Wireless internet access is available in all rooms. La Belle Epoque restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner featuring classical French cuisine, and the adjoining bar is open all day.....
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GREEN PARK HOTEL VIENTIANE
A beautiful boutique hotel that captures the rich era of Laotian grace and elegance, the Green Park is located next to the tranquil setting of Nong Chanh Park. Accommodation is in 34 rooms and suites that combine classic interiors with the highest standards of modern convenience, with views of the gardens and pool from their private balconies. The hotel’s restaurant serves up a range of local and international dishes on an open-air terrace that overlooks the river, whilst a relaxing spa presents an indulgent array of traditional herbal treatments.....
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THE VILLA SANTI HOTEL LUANG PRABANG
Former residence of the Lao Crown Princess and now a boutique hotel, the Villa Santi is a mix of Royal Laotian and French colonial charm. Set within the heart of the Luang Prabang, its 25 deluxe rooms and suites are all beautifully appointed in authentic Lao textiles and furnishings, keeping very much to the royal theme, and all offer an impressive range of modern amenities. An elegant restaurant, serving traditional Laotian and European dishes, and a relaxing garden bar create an exceptional haven in the heart of this World Heritage setting.....
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AMANTAKA
Amantaka derives its name from aman (peace) and taka, from Tipitaka, meaning ‘the teaching of the Buddha’ in Theravada scholastic literature. Set on a large garden estate, the resort is housed in graceful French colonial buildings in the UNESCO protected town of Luang Prabang. Airy and elegant throughout, the décor and furnishings reflect is within strolling distance of the boutiques, bakeries and restaurants lining the town’s main street.....
Back to top >Places to stay
Maison Souvannaphoum
Award-winning style, intimate luxury and old world charm are all on offer at the Maison Souvannaphoum, the perfect base to explore the charms of Luang Prabang. The former residence of the Laotian royalty, the superb facilities and elegant design of this historic building boasts spacious grandeur and colonial décor, making this stylish boutique hotel one of the finest in the city. The beautifully appointed rooms look out onto a lovely garden, where the hotel boasts a chic poolside restaurant and the indulgent splendours of a spa.....
MV Mekong Sun
The MV Mekong Sun was built in 2006 and is a German-Laotian owned river ship with 14 stylish air-conditioned cabins with a mainly European clientele. With a maximum of 28 guests, offering the highest possible comfort available in this region of the world. A mix of traditional local and Western-style food is served on board, using only the freshest and finest local ingredients. 11 Classic cabins are on the main deck with a size of 12m², all facing out onto the water, with wide sliding windows and a French balcony providing views of the passing landscapes. 3 Superior cabins offer an upgraded option, one in the bow of the main deck (16m²) and two on the upper deck (18m²). The two upper deck cabins have their own small private balcony and the one in the bow has a superb panoramic view to the front. All cabins have an en suite shower and WC. A spacious sundeck has a bar service and a restaurant/bar area.....
Maison Souvannaphoum
Award-winning style, intimate luxury and oldworld charm are all on offer at the Maison Souvannaphoum, the perfect base to explore the charms of Luang Prabang. The former residence of the Laotian royalty, the superb facilities and elegant design of this historic building boasts spacious grandeur and colonial décor, making this stylish boutique hotel one of the finest in the city. The beautifully appointed rooms look out onto a lovely garden, where the hotel boasts a chic poolside restaurant and the indulgent splendours of a spa.....
Luang Say Lodge
The Luang Say Lodge has 18 rooms, all simple but clean and with private facilities. It is located on the edge of Pakbeng and is very peaceful with its river location and open air dining & bar area. Cultural shows are sometimes staged in the evenings. US dollars or local currency are accepted but not credit cards.An overnight bag only is needed for the land stay at Luang Say Lodge. Main suitcases can be left on board the boat.....
Green Park Hotel
The Green Park Hotel is situated next to the peaceful Nong Chanh Park, the biggest park in city, right in the heart of Vientiane’s business district and only a few minutes away from the airport and commercial centres. Each of the 34 rooms are attractively decorated and are equipped with cable television, telephone, mini bar, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities and feature either a private balcony or terrace. The hotel restaurant serves both local and international cuisine. There is also a spa which offers a variety of traditional treatments.....
The Grand Hotel
The Grand Hotel enjoys a peaceful location on the banks of the Mekong, constructed on the site of the Xiengkeo Palace approximately 10 minutes drive from the city centre. The rooms are tastefully furnished in a colonial style and offer a good standard of accommodation, with balconies overlooking the gardens or river. The rooms have air conditioning, hair dryer, IDD telephone, mini bar, satellite TV. The restaurant serves western, thai and Lao dishes, there is also a bar overlooking the Mekong.....
Vat Phou Cruise
The Vat Phou is a 34 metre former steel hull barge. Launched in 1993, the cruiser consists of 12 comfortable and elegant air-conditioned staterooms which offer 2 single beds, a dressing table and a private bathroom. Additional facilities include a large front deck with an open area for observation and relaxation and an air-conditioned restaurant serving both Laotian and Continental food.....
La Residence Phou Vao
Situated on the edge of Luang Prabang and set amongst the landscapes of the Phou Vao hills, La Residence Phou Vao offers a refreshing blend of modern design and Lao-French colonialism. Now restored beyond its former glory, this exquisite boutique-style hotel was once the home of Prince Shouvannaphoum and is part of the prestigious Orient Express group. One of Luang Prabang's premier properties, La Residence offers a range of 34 elegant rooms suites, furnished in rosewood and fine cottons, with terrazzo marble bath tubs, private terraces and stunning views of the hills or the gardens. Boasting some of the finest cuisine in Laos, the hotel also affords the luxury of a superb spa and a beautiful infinity swimming pool.....
Villa Santi Resort
The Villa Santi Resort is located in the heart of Luang Prabang town. This boutique hotel was renovated from the former house of the Lao Crown Princess and decorated in a blend of Royal Lao and French colonial styles. This charming boutique hotel features 24 rooms all elegantly decorated in charming Royal Laotian Theme. The resort offers a restaurant, garden bar.....
The Settha Palace Hotel
Built at the turn of the century, the Settha Palace Hotel in Vientiane is now restored to its former charm. The French colonial architecture combined with period furniture and landscaped gardens complemented by modern facilities are just some of the features of this historical landmark in the heart of Vientiane. The Hotel is located right in the city centre and features 30 guestrooms and suites. ....
Lao Plaza Hotel
In Vientiane accommodation will be at the Lao Plaza Hotel, a modern centrally located hotel. The 142 rooms are well equipped including mini bar and digital safety deposit box. Other amenities include a 24 hour coffee shop serving both local and international dishes and a Chinese restaurant. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, spa and steam room. ....
Champasak Palace Hotel
The Champasak Palace Hotel is located approximately 1 km from the centre of Pakse town. Rooms are comfortably furnished and are equipped with air-conditioning, satellite television, mini bar and en-suite bathroom. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar, fitness centre and a foreign exchange service is available.....
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