VIP Slow Boat to Luang Prabang

luang prabang travel

VIP Slow Boat to Luang Prabangluang prabang travel
Duration: 2 day(s) – Location: Huay Xai – Luang Prabang
Looking for a great alternaitve to the slow boat? Can’t afford the luxuries of the Luang Say Cruise either? Then check out the Chompoo Cruise. The boat is very comfortable with a max of 40 people sat around 10 tables of 4. The onboard kitchen provides fresh meals, and a selection of games, books, DVD player and electrical sockets ensure your trip passes in comfort. luang prabang travel
Accommodation at Pakbeng is not included, this is a VIP boat trip not a tour.                     sapa market
Itinerary
DAY 1: HOUEI XAI – PAK BENG            siem reap tour
Between 8:30 and 10:30am, leave the Houei Xai pier and cruise downstream on one of our boats. On the way, the boat will take its first stop in Pak Tha, to have the voyage documents signed. The second stop will be to visit a Kamu village along the Mekong River at Ban Houey Phalam. Lunch is served on board. The boat will arrive in Pak Beng before the night. Overnight in Pakbeng. vietnam destinations
DAY 2: PAK BENG – LUANG PRABANG
At 8:30am, the boat leaves Pakbeng. On the way, we will make one stop. Visit Pak Ou Caves (Tham Ting) and its thousands of Buddha images. Lunch is served on board. luang prabang tour
We will arrive in Luang Prabang around 5:00pm.
Participant guidelines     halong bay travel
The Boats boats leave Houei Xai pier at 9:00 AM. So please be at the customs office in Houei Xai by 8:30 AM at the latest. One of our guide will wait with a sign.   vientiane travel
From October to February, it can get cold during the cruise, do not forget to bring a jacket. It is possible to leave luggage and suitcase on the boat and take only small daypack for your overnight in Pakbeng.
For safety reasons and according to the weather conditions, the program may change without prior notice.
PROGRAMS INCLUDED:
Transfer from Laos immigration to slow boat Pier at Houei Xai for downstream and vice-versa for upstream program.                            sapa trekking tours
Crew service during the cruise.
Admission fees for visiting sites serviced by our English speaking guide.       vietnam vacations
Lunch on board as mentioned in the program drinking bottled water, coffee, tea during meals.
PROGRAMS EXCLUDED:             phnom penh tour
Shuttle boat from Houei Xai to Chiang Khong and vice-versa.             halong bay cuise
Visa/immigration and/or overstay fees in Laos or in Thailand.
Transfer in Luang Prabang from your hotel to SHOMPOO CRUISE office pier and vice-versa.
Accommodation and meals in Pak Beng.        halong bay tour
Personal insurance.
Beverages, personal expenses, and tips.  sapa trekking
Other expenses not mentioned above.

angkor wat temple

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Laos glimpse tour 4 days

Laos glimpse tour 4 days. luang prabang travel
Tour brief
Clear out Draft itinerary :

luang prabang travelDay1.    Arrival – Vientiane
Day2.    VientianeLuang Prabang (B/…/…)
Day3.    Luang Prabang – Pak Ou cave (B/…/…)
Day4.    Luang Prabang – Departure (B/…/…)

Clear out Tours highlight :

+ Luang Prabang travel

Colour is the first of Luang Prabang’s virtues to greet travellers. Pearly frangipanis with their heady perfume, banks of overgrown trees peppered with scarlet flowers, the burnt sienna robes of hundreds of monks and their novices, and resplendent gold and claret wats. The scent of fresh coffee, river activity, produce markets and spicy food soon follows. And then the broader aesthetics begin to unfold. Encircled by mountains, and set 700m above sea level at the confluence of the Nam Khan (Khan River) and the Mekong River, Luang Prabang is now Laos’ foremost tourist showpiece. The brew of gleaming temple roofs, crumbling French provincial architecture and multiethnic inhabitants captivates even the most jaded travellers, and the quiet benevolence of the city’s residents lulls them into a somnambulant bliss.

+ Pak Ou cave. siem reap tour

Pak Ou Cave is located about 25 km from Luang Prabang. It can be reached by boat from Luang Prabang tour . Alternatively you can go by a soonthaew, that will bring you to the opposite bank of the river, where boats will be waiting to take you to the other site. vietnam vacations
There are two levels. One cave entrance is clearly visible from the river. The higher level can be reached after climbing some stairs. Bring a flashlight with you, if possible. Both caves have lots of small and bigger Buddha images, mostly donated by local people. vietnam destinations

+ Vientiane travel

This delightfully friendly capital, studded with crumbling French mansions, bougainvillea­-blooming streets and steaming noodle stalls, is somewhere between a big town and a diminutive city; the kind of place you might find a Graham Greene protagonist. Its conveniently compact travellers’ enclave is based around Nam Phu, the Mekong riverside and Setthariat and Samsenthai streets. Full of things to see, from Buddha Park to the Morning market and an impossibly rich selection of international cuisine – most pointedly French – you’ll find yourself slowly won over by the easy charms of this evolving backwater. The city may reveal its beauty less readily than Luang Prabang, but spend a few days visiting its unusual sights, sampling its excellent food and enjoying a Beer Lao at sunset by the river, and you’ll soon feel at home here.
Detailed tour itinerary                                                        sapa trekking tours
Operation : Daily departure
Duration : 4 days / 3 nights
Tour route : Vientiane – Luang Prabang – Pak Ou cave – Luang Prabang
Brief description : Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to hotel. Luang Prabang has been claimed by the UNESCO to be ‘the best preserved city in South East Asia’. During our time here, we visit the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun and the shrine of Wat Aham, Wat Mai;angkor wat temple  we then climb up to the top of mount Phousi for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa as well as a panoramic view of the city at sunset and the Mekong River…phnom penh tour

Day1.    Arrival – Vientiane

halong bay travel

Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your centrally located hotel. Vientiane is a fascinating capital, with a fusion of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French, and American influences. This charming and easygoing city will provide a smooth introduction to Laos. After a short rest, an orientation walk of Lao Capital is a pleasant way to spend the day, strolling around some of the city’s most historical sites and seeing some of the French colonial architecture. We observe the sunset by the Mekong Riverside until the late evening and experience the city lifestyle of the local Lao people. halong bay tour

Overnight in Vientiane

Day2.    Vientiane – Luang Prabang (B/…/…)

AM:    After breakfast, we start to visit the major sights of the capital; including the oldest Wat Sisaket with thousands of miniature Buddha statues and the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. On the way to the famous and sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, we will stop to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxay Monument, which is well known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph. From there, we visit the central market known as the ‘Morning Market’ which is a great place for browsing antiques, handmade textiles and gifts. halong bay cuise

PM: We spend the rest of this day touring the Lao capital, visiting the National Museum (close Tuesday) former name Revolutionary Museum, which exhibits artifacts, photos and legends of Laos’s history fighters and leaders from the ancient times to the new revolution period. We then board our short flight to the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage City Luang Prabang, which is perhaps the best – preserved traditional city in Southeast Asia. The tranquility and charm of this town with its splendid natural scenery and cultural sights make it one of the most delightful places to visit in Asia. On arrival, we transfer you to hotel. After a short rest, we stroll around the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of textiles made by the local and the hill tribe people surrounding Luang Prabang. We then climb up to the top of Mount Phousi for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa as well as viewing a beautiful and panoramic sunset over the ancient and once royal city and the Mekong River.

Overnight in Luang Prabang
Day3.    Luang Prabang – Pak Ou cave (B/…/…)

After breakfast, we enjoy a short-guided tour seeing the city’s oldest temple of impressive stupa of Wat Visoun and the shrines of Wat Aham, Wat Mai, Wat Sene and the magnificent Wat Xiengthong with its roofs sweeping low to the ground, which represents classical Laotian architecture. We then board a cruise upstream on the Mekong River, which gives us a panoramic view of the tranquil countryside as well as an interesting visit to the mysterious of Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims. Along the way, we stop at the village of Ban Xanghai, where they make the local rice wine. On our way back, we pass the local villages at Ban Xiengmene and Ban Chan continue to see the royal temple at Wat Longkhoun, which once belonged to a royal family patronage near by Sackarine Caves. We cross to city and take a short drive to Ban Phanom, a village well known for its hand weaving. sapa trekking

Overnight in Luang Prabang

Day4.    Luang Prabang – Departure (B/…/…)

An optional early start gives you the fantastic opportunity to participate in the daily morning rituals of saffron-clad monks collecting offerings of Alms (ubiquitous sticky rice) from the faithful residents. This tradition is very unique in Laos, being the only Buddhist nation still preserving the procession. This is a real highlight of the tour prior to saying goodbye to this charming city. Following breakfast, we visit The National Museum (close Tuesday) at the former Royal Palace, which displays a lovely collection of the artifacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating from the days of the early kings right through to the last sovereign. After we visit the silver smith’s and Fine Arts School and the Central Market, which is not to be missed. We then say farewell and depart this ancient city. sapa market

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Luang Prabang city tour – 1 day

Luang Prabang city tour – 1 day. luang prabang travel
Luang Prabang information :

luang prabang travel

Colour is the first of Luang Prabang’s virtues to greet travellers. Pearly frangipanis with their heady perfume, banks of overgrown trees peppered with scarlet flowers, the burnt sienna robes of hundreds of monks and their novices, and resplendent gold and claret wats. The scent of fresh coffee, river activity, produce markets and spicy food soon follows.
halong bay tour
And then the broader aesthetics begin to unfold. Encircled by mountains, and set 700m above sea level at the confluence of the Nam Khan (Khan River) and the Mekong River, Luang Prabang is now Laos’ foremost tourist showpiece. The brew of gleaming temple roofs, crumbling French provincial architecture and multiethnic inhabitants captivates even the most jaded travellers, and the quiet benevolence of the city’s residents lulls them into a somnambulant bliss.
Operation : Daily departure
Duration : 1 day. vietnam destinations
Tour route : Luang Prabang city tour and around
Brief description : This full day Luang Prabang city tour explores the rich culture and history of the former Lao capital as you visit temples, museums, arts centers and hidden laneways. sapa trekking tours , Visit the gilded halls of temples such as angkor wat temple Wat Xieng Thong and Wat Visoun, angkor wat templewalk through the historic former Royal Palace and explore the diverse cultures and traditions of Laos’ hilltribes at the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Center…
sapa trekking
Detailed intinerary:

AM: Impress Travel team will pick you up from your hotel after breakfast. Attention: Since buses can not enter into the heart of Luang Prabang, city tour is done by tuk tuk from 10 people (4 people/tuk tuk). vientiane travel, Visit Vat Visoun, the site of an impressive stupa, That Makmo, stylistically more Srilankalese than Lao. phnom penh tour, Then walk to the nearby Vat Aham, which is one of the city’s major tutelary shrines. Climb Vat Phousi hill for an outstanding view over the city. luang prabang tour , Continue to visit Vat Sene and Vat Xieng Thong, considered as the most beautiful temple. angkor wat temple, Next, drive to visit Ban Phanom, a weaving village populated by Thai Lu.vietnam vacations
halong bay travel
PM: After lunch at Un Petit Nid Restaurant, visit the National Museum (former King’s Palace) displaying a collection of personal artifacts of the Royal Family. siem reap tour, Then stroll through the lively Central Market where the ethnic minorities of the surroundings come daily to trade their goods.sapa market, Drive to Ban Xang Khong village to see how traditional Sa paper is made.vietnam vacations , View the sunset from the banks of the Mekong River. halong bay cruise

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Luang Prabang 1,5 days.

Duration: 1.5 day(s) – Location:Luang Prabang travel

It’s a simple life close to the elephants and close to nature. The day of a mahout is scheduled to fit the needs of the elephants and this tour offers you the unique chance to follow this natural rhythm.

You will have the chance to ride the elephants from perched atop their shouilders while learn some specific methods of controlling the animals. You will also feed them, bring them to the jungle and learn how to clean and wash these massive animals.

A night close to nature and our Lao food will prepare you for the next day. An early start in the morning will bring you back to the elephants for a bath in the river. Continue reading “Luang Prabang 1,5 days.” »

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Travel Laos – Thailand – Cambodia

Travel Laos – Thailand – Cambodia 8 days
Day 01: Hanoi – Danang (dinner excluded)
PM: Vietnam Exotic Tours and ticket delivery procedures guide you cluck means to Noi Bai airport procedures for flight to Danang. Da Nang to the first customer to self-check in hotel rest. Evening free to visit Da Nang roam at night, stay overnight in Danang.
Day 02: Danang – Lao Bao – Sanakhet (L, D)
AM: Car and guide pick up the rendezvous at Da Nang and Lao Bao sailed along the nine southern Laos. Noon: Lunch at Lao Bao. Procedures through the Lao Bao border gate – Van Den Sa. Afternoon: Continue your journey, visit That Ing Hang – Indo-Buddhist Holy Land, to Savannakhet, check K / hotel to rest. Evening: Dinner restaurant Savanakhet freedom to explore at night – the second largest city of Laos, the hometown of former president Cayxon Phonevihan.
Day 03: Savannakhet – Pakse – Wat Phou (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Morning: Breakfast. Depart Pakse, the city was called Saigon in Laos, the capital of Champasak Province. – Noon: Lunch restaurant in hotel and rest. PM: By ferry to visit Wat Phou Mekong – World Cultural Heritage monument architecture with Khmer style were constructed from the VI century. Evening: Dinner restaurant and free to explore Pakse night.
Day 04: Pakse – Ubon Ratchathni (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) Continue reading “Travel Laos – Thailand – Cambodia” »

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Hanoi – Vinh – Vientiane – Luong Phrabang – Chum Plains 6 days

Laos Travel: Ha Noi – Vinh – VientianeLuang prabang – Chum Plains

Date of departure from Hanoi
Time: 6 Days 5 Nights
Transport: Car

luang prabang travel

About tour: Enjoy tranquility in the ancient capital luang prabang, watching the mighty Mekong River and enjoy the riverside specialties, wild beauty of the land of a million elephants and explore the beauty and tradition Modern Moonlight capital – Vientiane. What are you waiting, but not yet discovered?

Laos Travel: Hanoi – Vinh – VientianeLuang prabang – Chum Plains 6 days

Tours

HanoiVientianeLuang Prabang – Xieng chamber – Vinh
Time: 6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS

Referring to the Lao people think of wind Laos (hot wind, as hot as the fan), disease tar pipe (a nasty disease), tobacco, concrete pipe, … also for our people travel, every time Laos is said to everybody for this country suggests praise and love. They said to Laos to see life slow, honest people, good; to Laos to see the view of the surrounding countryside, the peace was gradually lost in Vietnam, Laos to Vietnam to see how this 10, 20 years; and Laos too beautiful, beautiful does not describe all known. Things that makes me curious, somehow the charm and Laos so compelling, especially for travelers – those who travel a lot, know a lot … Continue reading “Hanoi – Vinh – Vientiane – Luong Phrabang – Chum Plains 6 days” »

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Lao Bao -Thakhet – Vientiane – Savanakhet

luang prabang travel

Day 01: Tour Hue / Da Nang – LAO BAO – THAKHET (B, T, C)

Guides will meet you at the meeting point Departure to Lao Bao along nine southern Laos. On the way visit the suspension bridge Dakrong.
Lunch at the Border Trade Town – Lao Bao. Entry and exit procedures at border gates of Lao Bao – Van Den Sa.
Continue your journey. By Thakhet. Check into your hotel and rest.
Dinner. Freedom Thakhet fun night – a town along the Mekong river, across the city of Nakhon Phanom (Thailand).
Day 02: Tour THAKHET – Vientiane (B, S, T, C)

Breakfast. Depart Vientiane. Lunch at Pacsan. Visit:
• That Cutting – the symbol of Laos.
• Triumphal Arch Patuxay.
• Sisaket ancient temple built in 1818 keeping 6840 Buddha & many ancient texts written on palm leaves by hand.
Dinner specialties with Laos and enjoy Lamvong famous dances.
Evening free at leisure in the capital, Vientiane. Continue reading “Lao Bao -Thakhet – Vientiane – Savanakhet” »

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Laos Tourism – things to know

The very easy-Laos, at tourist sites, can use many different currencies as money kip (Laos), Baht (Thailand), USD (United States) and even in Vietnam where many students live, you also easy to spend money in Vietnam dong. Guests do not need to change to much money Laos.

Goods in Laos largely part of Thailand and China. Are still the cheapest cosmetics such as shampoo, shower gel, toothpaste and a number of electrical appliances like rice cooker, blender, electric cooker from … The spread for the same products in the City from few thousands to several hundred thousand dollars. Most products such as shampoo, shower gel … were sold in batches of 5-10 products.

Price travel services in Laos are not high. Lao people are very hospitable, they were willing for you to find directions to the tourist town. Lao food is very rich, very easy to enjoy and quite close to the Vietnamese cuisine.

Transportation is common in Lao tuk tuk and car pickup. Guests must prepare hats, masks, goggles, sunscreen shirt (for summer) and gloves to protect themselves. You should wear shoes because software will pretty much have to walk between attractions near each other, should not be wearing sandals and slippers for feet will be eaten especially in the summer sun, the sun is very intense. Continue reading “Laos Tourism – things to know” »

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Khuang Si Waterfall Tour

Khuang Si Waterfall Tou. luang prabang travel

The beautiful multi-tiered Kuang Si waterfall is worth a trip from Luang Prabang for its refreshing beauty and serenity. Turquoise-green water tumbles over a series of limestone steps and collects in beautiful pools surrounded by lush greenery. Walkways lead around the base and to the summit, about 200 feet (61m) up, with plenty of spots for a relaxing picnic. luang prabang travel

Time: Daily (08:00 – 17:30 hrs)

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Cultural Festival and Laos

Cultural Festival and Laos. luang prabang travel

Culture Laos:

Lao culture has many similarities with Thailand, which is the Buddhist culture. Buddhism is ingrained in the minds of people of Laos, this impact is reflected in language and art, creating a very unique ethnic Lao.

Buddhism in Laos:

Laos Culture is the country of Theravada Buddhism, 90% of the population are Buddhist. Buddhism was introduced in the reign of King Lao Dvaravati in the 7th century and 14th century, Buddhism became the state religion. Lao people have instilled in her the Buddha’s teachings, a grade level respect the monks, the monks at the temple. With a population of more than 6 million people and up to 1,400 small and big temples, Laos is a country with a population ratio than the highest temple in the world. Temple associated with the school, associated both with life, monks eating like normal folk. Lao Buddhist merit-making is often called by many wholesome activities. On festive occasions, Laos tourist attractions and Buddhists to visit, explore Buddhist country no less golden temple – Thailand’s neighboring country. luang prabang travel

Lao New Year:
Each country has the traditional Tet customs of their own. And with Laos, the Lao New Year is a traditional festival called Tet Bunpimay Laos falls take place from 13 to 16 April each year. People splash water for good luck, peace for the whole year. They first watering to the Buddha, then also fell on the monks of the pagoda and trees around the temple, then to those around them. They also fall into the house, worshiping, animal and production tools. In these days, people still build the tower of sand, free life, eat Greek, picking flowers, forcing the wrist only. With the Laotians, the customs of the festival meant Bunpimay bring cool and prosperity for all things, prosperous happy life, a chance to nurture and nation forged art. luang prabang travel

Festival of Laos:
Laos has been considered as a country of festivals, months of the year also. Festivals in Laos, also known as Bun, that is blessed, as Bun is doing good means to be blessed. Like other countries in Southeast Asia, the festival in Laos is divided into two parts: the ceremony is a ritual because it’s the people in place to communicate with spirits and sense of fun meeting mainly and recreation. The great festivals of Laos, including Bun Pha Vet (Buddha incarnation) in January; Bun puya Visakha (Vesak) in April; Bun BangPhay (fireworks) in May; Bun Khao Phansa – (Lent) in July; Bun Khao Padapdin (remember those who died) in September; Bun Suanghua (boat race) in October. Festivals in Laos are associated with the temple.

In our mind, the Lao brothers are very close and almost no big trouble in the culture and communication. Exposed the fact that more and more clearly, the things that belong to Laos and they are great. Here is the point where the Laos than us, at least what we think of them. luang prabang travel

The politeness: The Laos meet, greet people under his hands on for children offering hands adults, they never quarreled loudly. luang prabang travel

Honesty: Laos very honest person, physical play. Even in trade, merchandise presentation, the buyer then the choice of leaving a corresponding amount. even when store owners are not present at quay.Coi honor: the Laotians rarely fighting, even in markets as well. Do not tease relatives, girlfriend or wife of Laos, avoiding indecent behavior. luang prabang travel

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Luang Prabang shopping

Luang Prabang shopping

Early morning, after lawyers seeking alms, we turned onto a small road behind the temple. Unexpectedly discovering a market is unique, unfamiliar with local produce. I have asked many people, they say, to Laos to Luang Prabang which is not yet known as to the origin of Million Elephants. So even once went to Laos, but due to distance from the capital of the ancient capital, we spent far too missed an appointment with Luang. 2nd time, take the Nam Can border (in Nghe An), we will drive yourself into Laos in the sultry days of summer.

Luang Prabang’s easy to imagine one way: it is a plateau with a cool climate like Sapa, Da Lat, an ancient city with wooden houses, the two lower floors as te le Hoi An. The mighty Mekong River winding around pagodas and many majestic, magnificent … Luang Prabang travel

Luang Prabang season too, not crowded, noisy. The first day in May when we come here, even guests busy at the station, bus station, then in the heart of Luang Prabang still surprisingly quiet. He accompanied you to reflect upon, suddenly said, sure people here at sparse. I think that’s a good reason. Luang Prabang travel

It is hard to write all about Luang, in the morning rush before leaving Luang to Vietnam, we look at a market close to the riverside path, it is located in an alley behind a large temple. We were very surprised with the way sales people here. From the arrangement of display means, to stuff food in your diet. Luang Prabang travel

Shopping done, we regret that I have missed a lot of delicacies in this lovely country. See Luang an occasion not far … Luang Prabang travel

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Experience Laos by road travel.

Laos is a beautiful country gentle and friendly man with the Vietnamese community scattered across facilitate trade. Laos shares borders with Vietnam extends from Lai Chau to Kontum with international border. Since Vietnam is easy to travel by road Laos without having to buy tour, especially the two governments signed agreements on transport for all kinds of cars can “transit” through the back. Luang Prabang travel

Take the self-drive cars have the advantage of active travel time, costs for the trip less expensive, can take a lot of attractions, scenic sights more on the way. However, the characteristics of sparsely populated so the service was very lacking on vehicles should be of good quality ride, winding roads north slope if more passes to the rainy season is not very secure. Luang Prabang travel

Some experience below will help you have an enjoyable trip in the land of a million elephants when traveling by car on autopilot. Luang Prabang travel

- Car maintenance all before, check your tires need replaced immediately if worn too, should carry a pump, tools and vehicles temporarily. Luang Prabang travel

- Procedures of transit transport in the provinces after 4 days, it can be obtained. Effective transit book a month, while noting that procedures would go on and on all gate precautions we can change the schedule as the support problem for authorities as they pass through the gate keeping in mind all the relevant papers.

- Full of petrol pumps at the gate because the gas is very expensive there, buy some food reserves, water and medicine. Luang Prabang travel

- Prepare a map of Vietnam and Laos map. Find out through Google maps.

- The currency of Laos is the Kip currency can be converted from dollars. Ideally we should change some money before in Vietnam via Da Hang, has just been convenient price. Luang Prabang travel

- Construction schedule is a very important part to the success of the trip. With a total area of ​​236,800 km2, tropical climate, terrain, mostly hilly and plateau, if you go all the Laos country takes 20 days to two northern Laos and north central Laos, Laos and Vietnam central Laos. Therefore we must calculate the required number of days and scheduled to go to reduce the reverse path. Luang Prabang travel

According to my experience a trip of about 8 days is reasonable. If in the north we can take the following route Hanoi – Na Meo border – Sam Nua field Chum – ancient capital of Luang Prabang – Luang Namtha – Oudomxay of Dien Bien Tay Trang border. If you have time in the dry season and a good navigation can go Houay Xai from Luang Namtha to visit Myanmar border fork – Lao – Thai gateway to the Golden Triangle.

- Guide the very expensive 30 – $ 60 a day. To each location can be found by the Vietnamese shops hire interpreters or students hired by Vietnam at just about 100,000 kip on. Luang Prabang travel

- The price of living in the Lao PDR is generally higher than Vietnam

- The hotel can bargain. Luang Prabang travel

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The northern province of Luang Prabang.

The northern province of Luang Prabang and its eponymous capital are among the most atmospheric and popular destinations in Laos.

The charming city of Luang Prabang, once the capital of Laos and still considered to be its spiritual heart, breathes a rich meld of French Indochinese architecture, Theravada Buddhist temples and a magical atmosphere. Luang Prabang travel

Luang Prabang is strikingly situated on a peninsula formed by the confluence of two rivers, the Mekong and the Khan. Its palm-lined riverbanks, terracotta roofs, golden stupas and saffron-robed monks all come together to form a picture postcard increasingly difficult to find in Southeast Asia. Somnambulant and languid, its peaceful feel masks a history of conquest and recapture, and only hints at the intricate culture and traditional rituals that still take place here every day. Luang Prabang travel

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995, the town was described by the global body as “an outstanding example of the fusion of traditional architecture and Lao urban structures with those built by the European colonial authorities in the 19th and 20th centuries. Its unique, remarkably well-preserved townscape illustrates a key stage in the blending of these two distinct cultural traditions.” Luang Prabang travel

In 2008 the New York Times put Laos at the top of their list of “Places to Go”. The city had already been considered one of Southeast Asia’s must sees for well over a decade, so untouched it’s certainly not. However, the city has a newfound popularity with older travellers and families seeking an exotic yet safe holiday, and prices are on the rise. With an international airport and daily connections to Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, many people fly in and fly out and see nothing more of Laos. This means more foreign visitors per temple than perhaps anywhere else in the region (except Angkor Wat), so rein in any expectations of having the place to yourself. Luang Prabang travel

A simple walk about town illustrates Luang Prabang’s charms. It’s picturesque, with all the charm of a quaint European town mixed with the wonderful, woodsy spice of Asia. A popular pastime is simply lounging in a quiet café with a baguette and coffee (Laotians drink the real stuff, not espresso) and watching local life pass by. Luang Prabang travel

With an outstanding range of restaurants, guesthouses and hotels, a gorgeous location and friendly people, Luang Prabang has a reputation for wrecking tightly planned itineraries. Be sure to allow at least a few days to really take this wonderful town in. Luang Prabang travel

Sleepy much of the year, Luang Prabang bursts with life during Pimai Lao, Lao New Year. If you’re planning on visiting at this time, be sure to book a room well in advance. Luang Prabang travel

With the capital at its centre, Luang Prabang province stretches north to Phongsali and the Vietnamese frontier, east to Hua Phan and Xieng Khuang, south to Vientiane and west to Udomxai and Sainyabuli. The east of the province in particular is a vast, mountainous swathe of real estate with next to nothing in the way of development, but to the north you’ll find the villages of Nong Kiaow and and Muang Ngoi, laidback, stunning riverside spots attracting a steady backpacker trade. Both can be reached by boat or road and, if you plan on striking north to Phongsali, you’ll definitely want to set aside a day or two in one or the other, or both.

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”Lan Xang” – land of the million elephants

Luang Prabang rose to prominence as the capital of the first Lao kingdom (”Lan Xang” – land of the million elephants) from 1353 onwards. The city owes its present name to the ”Pha Bang”, a revered Buddha image (now in the Royal Palace Museum) which was brought to the city by King Visoun during the golden age of ”Lan Xang” in the early 1500s. Luang Prabang travel

The fragmentation of the Lao kingdom at the end of the 16th century saw Luang Prabang become a militarily weak independent city state paying tribute to the surrounding kingdoms. Ultimately the 1887 sacking of the city by the Chinese Haw led the Luang Prabang monarchy to accept the protection of the French, whose influence led to the construction of the many fine colonial villas that sit harmoniously alongside the traditional Lao architecture. Luang Prabang travel

The city fell into decline in the latter half of the 20th century following the reluctant withdrawal of the French, and the 1975 revolution which brought an end to the Luang Prabang monarchy. The relative poverty of newly-independent Laos perhaps helped save Luang Prabang from the ravages of 20th century city planning.

The reopening of Laos to tourism in 1989 resulted in a remarkable turnaround in the city’s fortunes, as crumbling timber houses and colonial mansions were sensitively restored and transformed into immaculate guesthouses and boutique hotels. In 1995 the city was placed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage List]].

As a visitor, you cannot help but be amazed by the tidiness and cleanliness of perhaps the most charming city in all of [[Southeast Asia]]. With UNESCO so closely involved and a largely responsible group of local business owners, the pressures of mass tourism development have been held at bay, but for how much longer remains to be seen. Luang Prabang travel

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luang prabang

 

Photo of Alms Ceremony, Th. Sisavangvong, Luang Prabang, taken from across street in early May 2011 - illustrating tourists behaving inappropriately at 6am monks' pageant

Photo of Alms Ceremony, Th. Sisavangvong, Luang Prabang, taken from across street in early May 2011 – illustrating tourists behaving inappropriately at 6am monks’ pageant. Luang Prabang travel

Local landmarks and culture

  • Alms ceremony — monks at dawn collecting alms of rice from kneeling villagers (and early-rising tourists). Ask your guesthouse host to assist you the day before in preparing if you’d like to get up and give alms in the morning. Please note that the alms giving ceremony is one which, while picturesque, is not without its detractors. Unscrupulous local merchants have used the eagerness of tourists to participate in a local tradition as a means of making easy money, and sometimes sell unsuitable, stale and even unsafe food. This has resulted in monks falling ill after having consumed the offerings, and resistance to continuing the tradition. However, the government has made it clear that the monks have to continue the tourist pageant or risk being replaced with lay people clothed in saffron robes in order to keep up appearances, and thereby maintain tourist revenue. So if you wish to participate in this ceremony, prepare the food or fruit yourself, and avoid giving food of unknown quality. Another problem is the photographing. While it looks nice on your collection, think about how it must feel for the monks to have hundreds of tourists photographing them every day. Some lowlifes even stand right next to them, flashing them in the eyes! Strongly consider only watching this old tradition from a distance instead of using it as a tourist attraction, as this may detract from the beauty of the ritual – both for locals and tourists alike. You can always download a picture of it somewhere on the net for your collection. Luang Prabang travel
  • Haw Kham — the former royal palace and now national museum, 30,000 Kip, no photo/video/bag/shoes allowed, free locker. Open 8AM-11:30AM and 1:30PM-4PM every day except Tuesday. There’s also sometimes local drama or dance performances in the adjacent theatre. In August 2011 for examnple, each Mo/We/Fr/Sa, there was a performance at 6:30PM of “Search of Princess Sida”, a royal ballet, with prices from 80,000 to 150,000 kip. It is important to check the timings and plan the visit accordingly. Luang Prabang travel
  • Phou Si — the main hill in the city from which you have a good view of the whole area. It’s not a very steep climb from the bottom and sunrise and sunset are the most sensible and rewarding times to go up. There is a near-panoramic view from the top. Entrance fee 20,000 kip. Luang Prabang travel
  • Sunset on the waterfront — take a walk along the Mekong, or sit and enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants and watch the sun sink into the horizon.
  • Vat Xieng Toung — the oldest monastery in town and one of the most beautiful. Opens from 6AM-6PM. Entry fee 20,000 kip. One entrance on the road along Mekong river, the other on the by-lane off the main road. Luang Prabang travel
  • Vipassana temple and park — this golden temple, highly visible from Phou Si, is a shrine for Buddhists who practice Vipassana meditation.

Out of town

  • Bear Rescue Centre — located adjacent to the way to the Kuang Si Waterfalls, the Bear Rescue Centre has a enclosure for endangered Asiatic Black Bears that have been rescued from poachers.
Kuang Si Falls, Luang Prabang

Kuang Si Falls, Luang Prabang

  • Kuang Si Falls — a large multi-stage waterfall, accessible by boat or truck hire, some 29 km south of Luang Prabang. You can also rent a motorbike to transport yourself there. There are food and tourist stalls outside the waterfalls. It is worth putting a whole day aside (or more) for seeing these because they are a great place to relax and meet other travellers. There are multiple pools at different levels, all of which are reportedly safe to bathe in, and are extremely picturesque. tuk tuk to go there charge about 35 to 50,000 Kip (cheapest seems to be near slow boat pier) and some agencies seems to make it at 30,000 Kip. Luang Prabang travel
  • Tad Sae Waterfalls — step waterfalls which are not as big as Kuang Xi, but very beautiful. You can bathe there and elephant rides are available. Entrance is 15,000 kip and you have to river boat to reach the place.
  • Pak Ou Caves — the famous “Buddha caves” are north of town on the Mekong and can be reached by road (approx 1 hr) or river boat (around 1.5 hrs). Alternatively, you can hire canoes and a guide for the day, which would allow you to view the beautiful scenery and visit the caves without throngs of other tourists. It’s also possible to finish the trip at the ‘whisky village’ where the local Laolao (lao rice spirit) is made. There are two caves – one on the entry level and another – the upper caves – on top of the hill. A very steep climb, but worth the efforts. A candle or torch recommended to see the upper cave, as it is dark. Luang Prabang travel

Arts and crafts

  • The Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre — this small but perfectly formed museum is dedicated to the ethnic cultures of Laos, find out more about the groups that make Laos so unique and enrich your visit to Luang Prabang. Sometimes closed for Exhibitions, so please check in advance.
  • Ock Pop Tok Living Craft Centre — situated on the banks of the Mekong just 2 km south of Luang Prabang town, it offers an informative free tour to all visitors. Operating as a fairtrade traditional weaving centre you can take classes in bamboo / textile weaving, dye your own silk, draw your own batik or just relax at the Mekong garden cafe. Free Tuk Tuk departs daily from both Ock Pop Tok Shops in town: 10am – 12 noon – 2pm. Luang Prabang travel
  • Lao Red Cross — A traditional Lao sauna and massage, very popular with locals in the afternoon. Th Wisunarat, in front of Wat Wisunalat. 1 hour massage 40,000 kip (open 9AM-9PM), sauna 10,000 kip (open 4PM-8PM).
  • Rent a Motorbike — Although prices are astronomical by Southeast Asia standards ($US20-$25 per day as of Jan 2011), riding around the surrounding areas of Luang Prabang is a fantastic way to see the countryside. Fuel for the whole day will cost around 15,000 kip. As usual practice, they will keep your passport, so make sure they know when you leave and how to recover your passport. Luang Prabang travel
  • Fair Trek Project . People who love activities and treks may find some interesting interactive tours which are designed to support villages outside of Luang Prabang, and in the north of Laos.
  • Big Brother Mouse is a worthwhile organisation devoted to encouraging literacy in young adults and has premises off the main street, down a side street next to 3Nagas restaurant. Depending on sponsorship and volunteers, it welcomes tourists Mondays to Saturdays from 9AM-11AM to help with English conversation and reading practice. They publish and distribute books in Lao and English; consider buying some books to take as gifts to village children as you travel through Laos. They are also to be found in Vientiane. Luang Prabang travel
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